Questions and Answers
1. How, according to the legend, did the warriors of Kadavu save themselves a long journey by sea?
Answer:
The warriors of Kadavu saved themselves a long sea journey by sliding their canoes over the isthmus—the narrow piece of land that connects the eastern and western parts of Kadavu—using rollers.
2. What does the change in weather signify?
Answer:
The sudden storm signifies divine intervention. It reflects nature’s response to injustice and the spiritual presence that protects the innocent. It also marks the transformation of the women into sacred turtles.
3. Comment on the opening sentence of the legend.
Answer:
The opening sentence, “Many, many years ago,” is typical of traditional legends and folktales. It sets a timeless, mythical tone and signals that the story is part of oral tradition.
4. What happens to the two women when they go fishing?
Answer:
While fishing far from home, the two women—Tinaicoboga and her daughter Raudalice—are captured by warriors from Nabukelevu. As they are taken away in a canoe, a storm arises, and the women transform into turtles, escaping into the sea.
5. The turtles will not rise to the surface of the bay if any member of the nearby village of Nabukelevu is present there. What could be the reason?
Answer:
This is likely due to the ancestral grudge or spiritual memory. Since the fishermen of Nabukelevu were the ones who captured the women, their presence dishonours the sacred ritual, preventing the turtles (reincarnated spirits of the women) from surfacing.
6. Are all rituals strange? Why?
Answer:
Not all rituals are strange. Rituals might seem unusual to outsiders but carry deep cultural, historical, and spiritual meaning for the communities that practice them. They connect people to their beliefs and traditions.
7. Why are the women dressed in mourning?
Answer:
The women are dressed in mourning to honour Tinaicoboga and Raudalice, who were lost to the sea. Their attire reflects sorrow and respect during the turtle-calling ritual.
8. What do the lines of the song indicate?
Answer:
The lines of the song call upon the spirits of Tinaicoboga and Raudalice, now believed to be turtles, to rise from the sea. The chant reflects deep faith in ancestral presence and the sacred bond between the people and the turtles.
Activity I – Debate
Topic: Are women empowered in our society?
For:
- Women today have access to education and employment.
- Legal protections exist for women’s rights.
- Many women occupy leadership roles in politics and businesses.
Against:
- Women still face gender-based discrimination and harassment.
- Violence against women is prevalent in many areas.
- In many rural areas, women’s rights and voices are still suppressed.
Activity II – Write-up on a Ritual in Your Locality
Topic: Theyyam – A Living Ritual of North Kerala
Write-up:
One of the most captivating and culturally significant rituals in my locality is Theyyam, a ritual art form that is still actively performed in the Kannur and Kasaragod districts of Kerala. Unlike stage performances, Theyyam is not just a form of art but a sacred religious experience, deeply rooted in tribal and Dravidian traditions that date back over 800 years.
The ritual involves elaborate facial makeup, traditional costumes, symbolic ornaments, and rhythmic music created by drums and chants. Each Theyyam performer, often from specific communities traditionally allowed to perform, represents a deity or heroic spirit, believed to take possession of the performer’s body during the ritual. The transformation is considered spiritual and divine.
Theyyam is generally conducted in open-air shrines called Kavus, and devotees seek blessings, solutions to problems, and spiritual peace. The performers sometimes walk through fire, dance for hours, or make predictions, depending on the deity represented.
This ritual carries cultural, spiritual, and social significance. Theyyam reflects Kerala’s rich tradition of storytelling, where myths, social justice, and faith are combined into a living practice. It empowers even the historically marginalised communities, as they become the bearers of divine power during the performance. In today’s era, Theyyam continues to attract scholars, tourists, and spiritual seekers, keeping this sacred tradition alive.
Activity III – Travel Brochure
Destination: Munnar – The Kashmir of South India
Welcome to Munnar!
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is a hill station known for its rolling hills, sprawling tea gardens, misty mornings, and cool mountain air. Whether you’re seeking adventure or serenity, Munnar has something for everyone.
Top Attractions:
- Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the famous Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every 12 years.
- Mattupetty Dam: Ideal for boating and photography.
- Tea Museum: Learn about the history and making of tea.
- Echo Point & Top Station: Perfect for scenic views and trekking.
Activities to Enjoy:
- Trekking and nature walks
- Tea tasting and plantation visits
- Boating at Kundala Lake
- Birdwatching and photography
Local Delicacies:
- Kerala Sadya
- Appam and Stew
- Cardamom-infused tea
- Banana chips and jackfruit halwa
Accommodation:
- Budget: Treebo, Zostel Munnar
- Mid-range: Green Ridge, Tea County
- Luxury: Parakkat Nature Hotels & Resorts, Blanket Hotel
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March (cool, pleasant weather)
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International (110 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Aluva (110 km)
- Road: Well connected by buses and taxis
Explore Munnar – where clouds kiss the hills and time slows down. Book your trip now!
Activity VI – Travel Info (Prepared for Fort Kochi, Kerala)
Travel Info: Fort Kochi – Colonial Charm and Coastal Breeze
- Location: Kochi, Ernakulam District, Kerala
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (45 km)
- By Train: Ernakulam Junction (13 km)
- By Bus/Taxi: Regular buses and ferries from Ernakulam city
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (45 km)
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
- Main Attractions:
- Chinese Fishing Nets
- St. Francis Church (Vasco da Gama’s burial site)
- Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue
- Fort Immanuel Ruins and Maritime Museum
- Chinese Fishing Nets
- Local Cuisine:
- Kerala Sadya
- Appam & Fish Curry
- Toddy (local fermented drink)
- Kerala Sadya
- Accommodation:
- Budget: Fort Castle, Raintree Lodge
- Premium: Brunton Boatyard, Old Harbour Hotel
- Budget: Fort Castle, Raintree Lodge
- Highlights:
- Art galleries, Kathakali performances, antique shops, Indo-European architecture.
- Art galleries, Kathakali performances, antique shops, Indo-European architecture.
Activity VII – Conversation with a Travel Agent
Student: Good morning! I’m from Green Valley School, and we’re planning a two-day educational tour. Can you help me with the available options?
Travel Agent: Good morning! Of course, I’d be happy to help. May I know your destination of interest?
Student: We’re thinking about Wayanad or Munnar—someplace close to nature but also educational.
Travel Agent: Both are excellent choices. We have a 2-night/3-day package for Wayanad at ₹3,200 per student. It includes transportation, accommodation, meals, a local guide, and entry to major sites.
Student: That sounds interesting. What places will we be visiting in Wayanad?
Travel Agent: The itinerary includes Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, and Wayanad Heritage Museum. We also arrange cultural interaction at a tribal village.
Student: Will we be staying in hotels or dormitories?
Travel Agent: You’ll be staying in a clean and safe youth hostel with dormitory-style accommodation and 24/7 security. Separate arrangements will be made for boys and girls.
Student: That’s great. What about food and safety measures?
Travel Agent: All meals—vegetarian and non-vegetarian—will be provided. We follow FSSAI standards. A first-aid kit, a trained guide, and an emergency contact system will also be in place throughout the tour.
Student: Perfect! Could you send me the detailed itinerary and payment instructions?
Travel Agent: Absolutely. I’ll email you the complete tour plan and booking form by this evening. Once we receive confirmation, we’ll reserve the bus and accommodation.
Student: Thank you so much! I’ll discuss this with my teachers and get back to you shortly.
Travel Agent: You’re most welcome. Looking forward to organising a memorable and safe trip for your group!
Activity VIII – Introductory Speech by a Travel Guide
Speech by a Travel Guide at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:
Good morning, dear friends!
I welcome you all to the stunning Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady – a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and serenity. Spread across lush green hills, this sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, sambar deer, and hundreds of exotic birds.
You will soon experience a boat cruise on the Periyar Lake, which is a great opportunity to spot animals by the water. Don’t forget to keep your cameras ready but follow all safety instructions. Littering is strictly prohibited, and please maintain silence to respect the animals.
This place also offers spice plantation visits, bamboo rafting, and trekking. Let’s explore responsibly and connect with nature. I’m here to guide you at every step. Enjoy your journey into the wild!
Activity IX – Discussion on Indian English Usage (from Ezekiel’s Poem)
The poem “Goodbye Party for Miss Pushpa T.S.” is filled with expressions typical of Indian English. Here’s a detailed analysis:
| Indian English Expression | Correct/Standard English | Issue |
| “She is coming from a very high family.” | She comes from a respected family. | Present continuous misuse |
| “She is most popular lady with men also and ladies also.” | She is very popular among both men and women. | Direct translation from Indian languages |
| “Just now only I will do it.” | I will do it immediately. | Use of “only” as emphasis |
| “You are all knowing what sweetness is in Miss Pushpa.” | You all know how sweet Miss Pushpa is. | Incorrect use of verb |
| “She is smiling and smiling even for no reason.” | She smiles often, even without reason. | Repetition of gerund form |
Discussion Points:
- Indian English often retains sentence structure from native languages.
- Use of phrases like “most popular”, “just now only”, or “smiling and smiling” creates unintended humour.
- Ezekiel uses this unique style to highlight how English is adapted in the Indian context, creating a distinct dialect.