1.2 The Thief's Story - Class 10 - Kumarbharati

Author: Ruskin Bond

Textbook: English Kumarbharati – Std X

Board: Maharashtra State Board

Summary:

“The Thief’s Story” is about a 15-year-old thief who introduces himself as Hari Singh. He tries to trick Anil, a simple and kind man, into letting him stay by pretending to be a cook. Anil agrees and later teaches him how to cook, read, and write. One day, Hari steals ₹600 from Anil while he is asleep. At the railway station, however, Hari's conscience stops him, and he returns the money silently. Anil says nothing but begins paying him a salary and teaching him full sentences. Hari feels genuinely happy and experiences a turning point in his life. The story highlights the importance of trust, kindness, and education in transforming a person.

Theme / Central Idea:

The story focuses on the positive impact of trust and kindness. It shows how a dishonest person can change for the better when given love, understanding, and a chance to grow through education.

Character Sketches (Point-wise)

Hari Singh:

• A 15-year-old thief with a clever and deceptive nature.

• Lies about his name and skills to gain Anil’s trust.

• Observant and street-smart, yet capable of deep thought.

• Tempted by money but morally conflicted.

• Realizes the value of education and trust.

• Chooses honesty over theft and decides to reform.
  

Anil:

• A simple, kind, and trusting man in his mid-20s.

• Makes a living by writing articles for magazines.

• Willing to help and teach even a stranger like Hari.

• Doesn’t get angry or punish Hari for stealing.

• Believes in giving people second chances.

• Acts as a silent guide who helps Hari choose the right path.
  

Word Meanings:

Grammar Questions (5)

Q1. Pick out the infinitive and state its function: He also taught me to write my name .→ Infinitive: to write → Function: Object of the verb "taught".

Q2. Identify the tense in the sentence: I had made a study of men’s faces. → Tense: Past Perfect Tense

Q3. Rewrite using indirect speech: Anil said, “Now you’ll be paid regularly.” → Anil said that I would be paid regularly from then on.

Q4. Pick out the modal and state its function: If you can cook, then maybe I can feed you. → Modals: can, may → Function: Indicate ability and possibility

Q5. Pick out the gerund and state its function: Stealing was easy. → Gerund: Stealing → Function: Subject of the sentence

Personal Response Questions (2 marks each)

Q1. Why didn’t Hari board the train and escape with the money? → Although Hari had successfully stolen the money and reached the station, he could not escape. His conscience made him reflect on Anil’s trust and the opportunity to learn and live honestly. He realized that escaping would end his chance to become a respectable man through education. So, he returned to Anil with a changed mindset.

Q2. What does the story teach us about trust and second chances? → The story teaches that trust can be a powerful tool in transforming people. Anil’s silent and forgiving nature influenced Hari more than any punishment could have. It shows that when someone is given a second chance with kindness and belief, they may choose to change for the better.

Q3. Do you think Anil’s silence was more effective than scolding or punishment? Justify. → Yes, Anil’s silence was more powerful than any scolding. He understood that Hari regretted his actions and chose to return the money. By not confronting or shaming him, Anil allowed Hari to correct himself. This quiet forgiveness created a lasting impact on Hari’s heart.

Q4. What made Hari Singh return the stolen money to Anil? → Hari Singh was moved by Anil’s gentle and trusting behavior. He realized that education and a clean reputation were worth more than stolen money. He wanted to learn and grow into a better person. This inner transformation made him return the money quietly.

Q5. Do you believe education can truly change a person’s life? Why? → Yes, education has the power to change one’s life completely. Hari Singh understood that being able to read and write would help him earn respect and live honestly. It gave him hope for a brighter future. The story shows how knowledge can lead a person from crime to confidence and dignity.

True or False (Answer in one word):

1. Hari Singh cooked delicious meals for Anil.→ False

2. Anil handed Hari over to the police after discovering the theft.→ False

3. Hari Singh changed his name often to avoid being caught.→ True
   

Probable Board Questions (2 Marks)

Q1. What is the message of the story ‘The Thief’s Story’? → The story sends a strong message that love, trust, and the chance to grow through education can change even a thief into an honest man. It shows that moral change is possible through kindness.

Q2. Why didn’t Anil confront Hari about the theft? What does it reveal about Anil? → Anil chose not to confront Hari even though he knew about the theft. This shows that Anil was wise and forgiving. He believed in quiet guidance and gave Hari the opportunity to realize his mistake on his own.

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