5.1. Bravehearts - A Homage to our Brave Soldiers - Class 7 - Poorvi

Author: Not mentioned (Epistolary narrative)

Textbook: Poorvi

Genre: Informational / Epistolary / Narrative Non-fiction

Summary:

The chapter "A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers" is an exchange of heartfelt letters between two friends, Soumya and Ananda, reflecting on the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. Soumya writes about her moving experience during a school trip to the National War Memorial in New Delhi. She explains the structure of the memorial, its four concentric circles—Amar Chakra, Veerta Chakra, Tyag Chakra, and Raksha Chakra—and the significance of installations like the Amar Jawan Jyoti. She shares heroic stories of gallant soldiers like Lance Naik Albert Ekka and Major Padmapani Acharya, who were posthumously awarded gallantry medals for their selfless service. Ananda responds with gratitude, shares a poem, and narrates her own visit to a local war memorial in Chandigarh. She also mentions her interest in philately and discusses the inspiration she received from Soumya’s letter. The letters serve as a tribute to the valour and unwavering spirit of the Indian Armed Forces and emphasize the importance of remembering their sacrifices not only during war but also in peace.

Character Sketch:

Soumya 

A sensitive, observant, and patriotic student. Her emotional letter reflects her deep respect for soldiers. She is curious, reflective, and eager to share knowledge with her friends.

Ananda 

Empathetic and thoughtful, Ananda is inspired by Soumya’s letter. She values memories, appreciates poetry, and actively shares her reflections. Her interest in philately and storytelling reflects her intellectual and emotional maturity.

Themes

Literary Devices

Title Justification

The title “A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers” is fully justified as the entire narrative revolves around expressing deep respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made by the Indian Armed Forces. Through personal letters and real-life war stories, the chapter captures the emotions, values, and national pride associated with soldiers' heroism. The chapter not only educates the readers about the National War Memorial but also inspires them to remember and honour the bravehearts who protect the nation's sovereignty.

One-Mark Questions

1. What is the name of the flame at the National War Memorial?

   → The flame at the National War Memorial is called Amar Jawan Jyoti, which symbolises the eternal spirit of the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country.

   
   

2. Who was awarded the first Param Vir Chakra?

   → Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded the first Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honour, for his exceptional bravery during the Battle of Badgam in 1947.

   
   

3. What does the Tyag Chakra represent?→

   The Tyag Chakra, also known as the Circle of Sacrifice, represents the selfless sacrifice made by thousands of soldiers. It includes walls with granite tablets on which the names of fallen heroes are etched.

   
   

4. Who wrote a memoir about Captain Anuj Nayyar?

   → Meena Nayyar, the mother of Captain Anuj Nayyar, wrote a memoir titled “Tiger of Drass – Capt. Anuj Nayyar – 23 – Kargil Hero”, to honour her son’s bravery during the Kargil War.

   
   

5. What does the Amar Chakra symbolise?

   → The Amar Chakra, or the Circle of Immortality, symbolises the immortal spirit of Indian soldiers. It includes the central obelisk and the eternal flame, reminding us that the nation will never forget their sacrifice.

   
   

Three-Mark Questions

1. Why did the students feel awestruck during their visit to the National War Memorial?

   → The students felt awestruck and humbled because the National War Memorial was not just a monument but a powerful symbol of patriotism and sacrifice. They were moved by the stories of gallant soldiers like Lance Naik Albert Ekka, whose bravery and selflessness left a lasting impact. The names etched in golden letters on over 29,000 tablets reminded them of the real cost of freedom, making the visit an emotional and inspiring experience.

   
   

2. What actions did Soumya’s class take after visiting the memorial?

   → After visiting the National War Memorial, Soumya and her classmates decided to create group presentations showcasing the stories of valour and bravery of the soldiers they had learned about. Their teacher encouraged them to share their learning during the school assembly, so that other students could also understand and appreciate the sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces. This initiative aimed to spread awareness and inspiration among all students.

   
   

3. Describe the structure of the National War Memorial in brief.

   → The National War Memorial is a grand and symbolic structure that consists of four concentric circles:The Amar Chakra (Circle of Immortality), which holds the central obelisk and eternal flame.The Veerta Chakra (Circle of Bravery), which displays bronze murals of heroic battle scenes.The Tyag Chakra (Circle of Sacrifice), which features granite tablets with names of fallen soldiers.The Raksha Chakra (Circle of Protection), where rows of trees represent the guardians of the nation.Together, these circles highlight the courage, sacrifice, and protection offered by our armed forces and serve as a tribute to India’s bravehearts.

Value-Based Question

Why is it important for students to learn about the sacrifices of soldiers?

→ Learning about soldiers' sacrifices helps students develop a sense of gratitude, responsibility, and patriotism. It encourages them to respect national values, understand the cost of freedom, and get inspired to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s well-being.

End

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