1.3 Wisdom Paves The Way - Class 8 - Poorvi (New)
- Aug 19
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 13

Author: Not mentioned
Textbook: Poorvi
Genre: Drama / Fiction
Summary
The play "Wisdom Paves the Way" tells the story of four intelligent young men – Ram Datt, Shiv Datt, Har Datt, and Dev Datt – who are journeying toward Ujjain in hopes of gaining recognition at the king’s court. Along the way, they observe camel tracks and make insightful deductions about the missing animal, including its physical condition and behaviour, without ever having seen it. A distressed merchant accuses them of stealing his camel and brings them before the King of Ujjain. However, through calm reasoning and clever explanations, the four men prove their innocence and showcase their wisdom. Impressed by their intelligence and ability to "see beyond the obvious", the King appoints them as his advisers. The play demonstrates the value of keen observation, deductive reasoning, and unity in achieving a goal.
Character Sketches
Ram Datt
Observant and logical
Deduces that the camel limped
Calm under accusation
Shiv Datt
Sharp and attentive
Notices grazing pattern of the camel
Shows clarity in thinking
Har Datt
Detail-oriented
Infers the camel carried goods
Offers confident explanations
Dev Datt
Highly perceptive
Concludes camel was sick from sound
Uses analytical thinking
The Merchant
Distressed and emotional
Jumps to conclusions
Learns to accept reasoning
The King
Fair and intelligent
Appreciates wisdom and logic
Rewards merit over status
Themes
Theme | Description |
Power of Wisdom | Intelligence and keen observation help the four men prove their innocence. |
Justice and Fair Leadership | The King listens to both sides before making a fair decision. |
Prejudice and Truth | The Merchant wrongly accuses the men without proof, but truth prevails. |
Unity and Purpose | The group works together with a shared goal to reach the King’s court. |
Value of Deductive Thinking | Careful reasoning helps uncover truth even without physical evidence. |
Literary Devices
Device | Example from the Play | Explanation |
Irony | Accused men turn out to be wiser than the merchant | The situation is opposite of what was expected |
Dialogue | “Let us observe them as we go” | Moves the plot and reveals character traits |
Setting | Road to Ujjain, royal court | Reflects contrast between journey and goal |
Symbolism | Camel’s tracks | Symbolise the trail to truth through observation |
Tone | Rational, composed, respectful | Maintains a dignified atmosphere of logic and justice |
Title Justification
The title "Wisdom Paves the Way" is justified as the entire plot revolves around how the intelligence and careful reasoning of four young men help them overcome a false accusation and ultimately earn them a place of honour in the King’s court. Their wisdom literally and metaphorically becomes the path to success.
One-Mark Questions
1. Why were the four friends travelling to Ujjain?
The four friends were on a journey to Ujjain to seek recognition for their talents. They hoped to secure an audience with the King. Their aim was to find honour and a place in the King’s court.
2. What made the merchant accuse the men of stealing the camel?
The merchant was distressed and noticed that the four men knew specific details about the camel. He assumed such knowledge was only possible if they had stolen it. He brought them to the King with this accusation.
3. How did Ram Datt deduce that the camel limped?
Ram Datt observed uneven hoof marks and drag patterns in the tracks. This led him to conclude the camel had an injured leg. His logic impressed the King.
4. What quality impressed the King the most about the four men?
The King was deeply impressed by their ability to observe and deduce facts. Their wisdom and reasoning were rare. He valued such intelligence in his court.
5. What lesson did the merchant learn from the incident? The merchant learned that assumptions without evidence can be harmful. He was embarrassed by his false accusation. He exited the court, chastened and ashamed.
Three-Mark Questions
1. How did each friend contribute to identifying the camel’s traits?
Each friend used a different observational skill. Ram Datt noticed the limping gait of the camel. Shiv Datt observed the grazing pattern, revealing which side the camel ate from. Har Datt deduced the camel carried grain and honey. Dev Datt concluded that the camel was unwell based on the buzzing of flies. Their combined observations formed a full picture.
2. What role does the King play in ensuring justice?
The King listens to both the merchant and the four travellers with equal patience. He allows each accused man to explain his reasoning. Instead of jumping to conclusions, he carefully analyses their logic. This fairness sets a good example of leadership. By rewarding wisdom, he promotes truth and justice. His decision to appoint them as advisers proves his integrity.
3. What does the story teach about intelligence and observation?
The play highlights that intelligence is not only about education but also about how one observes and understands the world. The four men did not see the camel but could deduce its condition through clues. This ability to "see beyond the obvious" is celebrated. The King values this rare skill more than wealth or status. The play shows that intelligence combined with honesty leads to success.
4. Why is the setting of Ujjain important in the play?
Ujjain is portrayed as a city of opportunity and wisdom. The King of Ujjain is known to honour talent and intelligence. The journey to Ujjain symbolises the pursuit of knowledge and recognition. It adds purpose to the friends’ determination. Reaching Ujjain becomes both a literal and symbolic goal.
5. How does the play emphasize teamwork and shared vision? All four men share the same dream of serving in the King’s court. They support each other during the false accusation. Their unity helps them stay composed. Each one uses his strength to contribute to their defence. This teamwork earns them respect and success. The play underlines the value of working together toward a common purpose.
Value-Based Question
What life lesson can be learned from how the young men responded to being falsely accused? The young men teach us the importance of staying calm and respectful even in unjust situations. Instead of reacting emotionally, they used logic and clear explanations to defend themselves. Their confidence in truth and their dignity earned them the King's respect. The story shows that wisdom and patience can help overcome prejudice and misunderstandings. It inspires us to act with honour and let our actions speak louder than accusations.
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