Key Characters
1. Mara: The watchman of the lake and the protagonist. He is seen as a madman by the villagers but possesses a deep connection with nature and the divine. He interprets the will of the Goddess and protects the lake.
2. Village Headman: The authoritative figure in the village, concerned with appearances and the king’s approval. He represents societal norms and the often dismissive attitude towards those considered different.
3. King: The ruler who ultimately decides the fate of the lake based on Mara’s revelations. His character reflects the responsibility of leadership and the importance of being receptive to wisdom beyond conventional thought.
4. Ganga: Mara’s son, who learns the values and responsibilities associated with being the caretaker of the lake. He symbolizes the continuity of tradition and the next generation’s duty to honor that legacy.
5. Bhima: A road worker who initially follows the orders of the village headman but is suggested to be more compassionate than he appears, highlighting the complexity of social roles.
Major Themes
1. Nature and Spirituality: The lake and its waters symbolize not only life but also the presence of the Goddess. The connection between the villagers and nature emphasizes the need for harmony and respect toward the environment.
2. Madness vs. Wisdom: Mara is labeled a fool by the villagers but possesses insights they lack. This motif challenges the conventional definitions of sanity and wisdom, showing that true understanding may come from those society deems “mad.”
3. Tradition and Responsibility: The story underscores the importance of passing down knowledge and respect for sacred duties, as seen through the lineage from Mara to Ganga. The emphasis on familial responsibility highlights cultural values.
4. Divine Intervention: The recurring theme of the Goddess’s influence through dreams and visions reveals the interplay between divine will and human action. It stresses the significance of heeding spiritual guidance.
5. Community and Leadership: The dynamic between the king, the villagers, and Mara illustrates the complexities of leadership and the responsibilities of those in power to listen to the voices of all subjects.
Key Concepts
1. Sacredness of Water: The lake represents life, sustenance, and a divine connection. Its sacred nature prompts the characters to reflect on their relationship with natural resources.
2. Consequences of Disrespect: The looming threat of drought and flood serves as a metaphor for the repercussions of ignoring divine and natural laws.
3. Change vs. Tradition: The conflicts between the headman, the king, and Mara highlight the tensions between progress and preservation of traditions.
4. Generational Wisdom: The inheritance of responsibilities and beliefs from parent to child underscores the importance of continuity in values.
Imagery
1. Natural Imagery: The descriptions of the lake, the storm, and the mountains evoke powerful visual images and invoke the beauty of nature, contrasting the turmoil that arises from human actions and neglect.
2. Spiritual Imagery: Mara’s visions of the Goddess create vivid scenes that portray her divine power and connection to the lake, emphasizing the importance of worship and reverence.
Metaphors
1. The Lake as a Goddess: The lake, often referred to in terms of femininity and divinity, serves as a metaphor for nurturing and protective forces in nature that must be respected and cared for.
2. The Dream as a Communication Channel: Dreams in the play act as a metaphor for divine communication, suggesting that higher wisdom can transcend the ordinary realm of experience.
3. The Storm: The impending storm symbolizes both chaos and inevitable change, reflecting the consequences of neglecting responsibilities towards nature.
Dramatic Devices
1. Dialogue: The exchanges between characters convey their personalities and motivations, helping to express key themes such as authority, madness, and respect for nature.
2. Conflict: The tensions between Mara and the village headman showcase societal norms versus individual beliefs, driving the narrative forward and highlighting major themes.
3. Symbolism: Objects and actions (like the lake, fishing, and the act of worship) are laden with symbolic meaning that reflect broader themes of life, sacrifice, and duty.
4. Foreshadowing: The warnings of drought and the Goddess’s commands serve as foreshadowing devices that build tension and anticipation for the impending crisis.
5. Character Development: Mara’s transition from a perceived madman to a respected figure illustrates character growth and reinforces the theme that wisdom is often hidden beneath societal labels.
II. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each.(2 Marks Questions)
1. Who is the main character in “Watchman of the Lake”?
Answer: The main character is Mara, the watchman of the lake.
2. What does the village headman want the workers to do before the king arrives?
Answer: The village headman wants the workers to finish preparing the road before
the king arrives.
3. What message does Mara receive from the Goddess?
Answer: The Goddess commands Mara to tell the king to build a tank to protect the waters of Veda.
4. What happens to Mara when he is caught by the village headman?
Answer: The village headman orders Bhima to bind Mara and take him to the cellar behind the old temple.
5. How does the king respond to Mara’s warning about the lake?
Answer: The king listens to Mara and takes his warning seriously about the potential danger to the village.
6. Who is Ganga in the story?
Answer: Ganga is Mara’s son.
7. What does Mara say happens to the lake during the storm?
Answer: Mara tells the king that the lake is threatening to overflow due to the storm.
8. What were the villagers doing as the king was arriving?
Answer: The villagers were preparing the road and working hard to impress the king.
9. How does Mara describe his vision of the Goddess?
Answer: Mara describes the Goddess as having wild hair, a gleaming look, and a sword in her hand.
10. What does Ganga learn from his father, Mara?
Answer: Ganga learns about the importance of respecting and protecting the lake.
11. Why do you think the village headman considers Mara to be a fool?
Answer: The village headman considers Mara to be a fool because he does not understand Mara’s deep connection with the Goddess and nature, viewing him as different and mad.
12. What does the lake symbolize in the story?
Answer: The lake symbolizes life, sustenance, and the divine connection between humans and nature that should be respected and cherished.
13. How does Mara’s treatment by the villagers change after he speaks to the king?
Answer: After speaking to the king, Mara gains respect and is viewed as a wise man
rather than a fool, illustrating the importance of his insights.
14. Why does Mara feel it is important to protect the lake?
Answer: Mara believes it is important to protect the lake because it is sacred and provides life to the villagers, and he feels a divine obligation to care for it.
15. In what ways does the storm affect the villagers’ perception of their surroundings?
Answer: The storm creates a sense of urgency and fear, making villagers realize the
power of nature and the necessity of respecting it.
16. How does Mara’s character challenge traditional views of madness?
Answer: Mara’s character shows that what society often labels as madness can actually be profound wisdom and insight, highlighting the theme that true understanding may come from unexpected sources.
17. What lesson does Ganga learn from Mara about family and duty?
Answer: Ganga learns the importance of carrying on the family tradition of protecting the lake and honoring the responsibilities that come with it.
18. How does the king’s response to Mara’s plea reflect on his character?
Answer: The king’s response shows that he is willing to listen to the wisdom of his subjects and take their concerns seriously, demonstrating good leadership qualities.
19. What do you think the storm represents in relation to the Goddess?
Answer: The storm represents the unpredictable nature of divine will and the potential consequences of neglecting the sacred, serving as a reminder of the need for respect toward nature.
III. Answer the following questions in about 60 words each. (3 Marks Questions)
1. Who is the main character of the story “Watchman of the Lake”?
Answer: The main character of “Watchman of the Lake” is Mara. He is deeply connected to the lake and serves as its protector. Mara has a special relationship with nature and understands the importance of looking after the lake, showing his dedication to preserving the environment for the wellbeing of his village.
2. What does Mara receive from the Goddess in the story?
Answer: In the story, Mara receives a divine message from the Goddess while he is by the lake. She tells him that he must warn the villagers and the king about the dangers the lake poses if they do not take care of it. This message emphasizes the importance of respecting nature.
3. How does the village headman treat Mara throughout the story?
Answer: Throughout the story, the village headman treats Mara with disrespect and suspicion. He believes Mara is mad and does not take his warnings seriously. The headman’s dismissive attitude reflects a lack of understanding and appreciation for the wisdom that comes from Mara’s deep connection with the lake and environment.
4. Why is Mara caught and bound by the villagers?
Answer: Mara is caught and bound by the villagers because they see him as a threat to their way of life. The headman believes Mara’s warnings about the lake are foolish and does not want anyone to disturb their routine. This misunderstanding leads to the villagers capturing him, thinking he is mad.
5. What happens during the storm concerning the lake?
Answer: During the storm, the lake begins to overflow due to the heavy rain. The water rises rapidly, creating a dangerous situation for the village below. Mara’s warnings suddenly become critical as the villagers realize the potential dangers he had warned them about. This event reinforces the importance of caring for the lake and nature.
6. How does the king respond to Mara’s warnings?
Answer: When Mara finally gets the chance to speak to the king, the king listens to him carefully. He recognizes the validity of Mara’s warnings about the lake’s dangers and decides to take action. This response shows the importance of being open to different perspectives and valuing wisdom from those who understand nature.
7. What important lesson does Ganga learn from Mara?
Answer: Ganga learns the crucial lesson of respecting and protecting the lake, which is vital for their village’s survival. His father’s experiences teach him that nature must be cared for and that ignoring its signs can lead to disaster. Ganga’s understanding deepens, showing him how their wellbeing is connected to the lake.
8. Why do you think the villagers are dismissive of Mara’s warnings at first?
Answer: The villagers dismiss Mara’s warnings at first because they see him as an outsider with strange ideas. They believe he is mad and do not understand the connection between his insights and their environment. This lack of understanding prevents them from recognizing the wisdom Mara has about the lake and the importance of protecting it.
9. What does the lake symbolize in Mara’s story?
Answer: In Mara’s story, the lake symbolizes life, sustenance, and the relationship between nature and the community. It represents the source of water that the villagers rely on for their crops and daily needs. The lake’s health reflects the overall wellbeing of the village, highlighting the importance of caring for natural resources in their lives.
10. How does Mara’s treatment change after he speaks to the king?
Answer: After speaking with the king, Mara’s treatment changes significantly. The king realizes the wisdom and truth in Mara’s warnings about the lake. The villagers start to respect Mara more because the king values his insights. He becomes a figure of knowledge, highlighting how understanding and listening to others can lead to positive changes.
(FROM QUESTION BANK)
- Why were the roads being repaired in Mara’s village in ‘The Watchman of the Lake’?
Answer: To ensure safer passage for the king and his entourage.
- Who did the village headman consider as a ‘lunatic’ in ‘The Watchman of the Lake’?
Answer: Mara.
3. The village headman was angry with Mara because:
a. He wanted to marry his daughter. b. He disturbed the good work. c. None of the above
Answer: b. He disturbed the good work.
4. Why was the headman in a hurry to complete the road work?
Answer: To impress the king.
5. The village headman asked Mara to keep away from the road workers because:
a. He was disturbing them by talking about his dream.
b. He was destroying the road.
c. He was snatching away the implements of the workers.
Answer: a. He was disturbing them by talking about his dream.
6. According to Mara, why was the village headman jealous of him?
Answer: Because of Mara’s connection to the Goddess.
7. Who threatened to lock up Mara if he did not go out of sight for two days?
Answer: The village headman.
8. Who had given the greatest gift to Mara in ‘Watchman of the Lake’?
Answer: The Goddess.
9. Who commanded Mara to tell the king to build a tank to the river Veda?
Answer: The Goddess.
10. Who helped Mara to escape from the cellar?
Answer: Bhima.
11. Where was Mara waiting for the King?
Answer: On a tree.
12. Why was Mara waiting for the king in a tree?
Answer: To avoid being seen.
13. When the king was passing through Mara’s village, there was a sudden confusion as:
a. The king fell down on an unrepaired road.
b. Mara jumped down from the branches of a tree before the king.
c. Someone tried to attack the king.
Answer: a. the king fell down on an unrepaired road.
14. Who had given Bhima iron decoction when he was a baby?
Answer: Bhima’s mother.
15. Who was Mara’s Jailor in ‘The Watchman of the Lake’?
Answer: The village headman.
16. Where was Mara held as a prisoner in ‘The Watchman of the Lake’?
Answer: In the cellar.
17. Who was bound and thrown into the cellar in ‘The Watchman of the Lake’.
a. Mara b. Racha c. Bhima
Answer: a. Mara.
18. Who had come in Mara’s dream to talk about the tank?
Answer: The Goddess.
19. How did Mara manage to draw the attention of the king?
Answer: By jumping down from a tree.
20. The command of the Goddess to Mara was to:
a. Wait for the king in the tree. b. Tell the king to build a tank for the river Veda.
c. Drink iron decoction to become strong like Bhima.
Answer: b. tell the king to build a tank for the river Veda.
21. believed that Mara had the grace of the gods upon him.
a. The village headman b. The fisherman c. The king
Answer: c. The king.
22. Who was initially appointed as the watchman of the lake by the king in ‘Watchman of the Lake’?
Answer: A different character before Mara.
23. According to Mara, the command of the Goddess about the creatures of the lake was
a. One can catch fish occasionally. b. Only gulls (birds) should be caught.
c. Nothing that flies, swims or walks should ever be killed.
Answer: c. Nothing that flies, swims or walks should ever be killed.
24. According to Mara,comes down the mountain to slake its thirst in the dead of the night.
Answer: A deer.
25. Why did the visitor from the farthest village come to Mara?
Answer: To tell Mara about the lake’s condition.
26. Mara rushed to the king’s palace because he wanted to save:
a. His own life. b. The king. c. The lake.
Answer: c. the lake.
27. Mara was trembling at the king’s palace because:
a. He was afraid of the king. b. He was afraid of the safety of his son.
c. He was terrified of the wrath of the Goddess.
Answer: c. he was terrified of the wrath of the Goddess.
28. Where did Hanuman find Sanjeevini, according to Mara, in ‘Watchman of the Lake’?
Answer: On the mountain valley.
29. Who was Mara waiting for, hiding in the tree?
Answer: The king.
30. What is described as the ‘lifeblood of the King’s subjects’?
Answer: The river.
31. Who summoned the king on the torrential night?
Answer: The Goddess.
32. Name the river mentioned in ‘Watchman of the Lake’.
Answer: The river Veda.
33. What had the Goddess instructed Mara in his dream, in ‘Watchman of the Lake’?
Answer: To protect the lake.
34. The Goddess considered river Veda as her:
a. Daughter b. Own plaything c. Lifeblood
Answer: a. daughter.
35. What does the Goddess regard as her own plaything in ‘Watchman of the Lake’?
Answer: The lake.
36. What did Mara convey to the king late at night?
Answer: The importance of building a tank.
37. What was the command of the Goddess when she appeared in Mara’s dream for the first time?
Answer: To safeguard the lake and its creatures.
38. was the mood of the Goddess when she appeared in Mara’s dream for the first time?
a. Protective, motherly, and divine. b. Fierce, unkind and threatening.
c. Disagreeing, demanding and commanding.
Answer: a. Protective, motherly, and divine.
39. What was the mood of the Goddess when she appeared in front of Mara on the stormy night?
Answer: Fierce and commanding.
40. What was the suggestion given by Mara to save the lake?
Answer: To build a protective tank.
41. What was Mara’s last request to the king before he sacrificed his life?
Answer: To take care of the lake.
42. Who was appointed as the watchman of the lake after Mara?
Answer: Ganga.
43. Who ordered Ganga to perform his father’s duties after the death of Mara?
Answer: The village headman.
44. Whose idol is installed on the top pedestal in the shrine?
Answer: The Goddess’s idol.
45. Whose idol is installed on the lower pedestal in the shrine?
Answer: Mara’s idol.
IV. Answer the following questions in about 100 words each (4 Marks)
1. Write about Mara’s dream in “Watchman of the Lake”.
In Mara’s dream in “Watchman of the Lake,” he encounters the Goddess, who entrusts him with the sacred responsibility of protecting the lake. In this dream, the Goddess reveals her profound connection to the lake and its creatures, emphasizing their vital importance to the community’s survival. She commands Mara to act as the watchman, instilling in him a sense of duty and purpose. This experience deeply influences Mara, transforming his perception of his role in the village. The dream serves as a catalyst for his actions, ultimately leading him to prioritize the preservation of the lake and its environment.
2. What instructions did Mara give his son about the lake and the creatures?
Mara takes the time to impart vital lessons to his son about the lake and its precious creatures. He instructs him to treat all living beings with respect and compassion, reminding him that the lake is not just a resource, but a sacred entity that sustains life. Mara emphasizes the interconnectedness of nature, teaching his son that every action they take can have significant consequences. He encourages his son to be vigilant and protective, ensuring that they do not harm the creatures that inhabit the lake. Through these teachings, Mara hopes to instill a sense of responsibility and respect for the environment in his son.
3. What mythological story did Mara narrate about the sacred spot to the King?
Mara recounts a rich mythological story to the king, explaining the sacred importance of the lake. He narrates how the river Veda, upon emerging from the mountains, became a source of life for the villagers and how the Goddess chose this spot as a place of divine presence. Mara tells the king that the lake is a blessing for the people, sustaining crops, livestock, and even their spiritual beliefs. By sharing this story, Mara aims to highlight the lake’s significance, reinforcing its role in the culture and survival of the village, and urging the king to take action to protect this sacred space.
4. What did Mara tell the king about the tank on the stormy night?
On the stormy night, Mara urgently conveys to the king the pressing need for a tank to be built near the lake. He emphasizes that the lake, once plentiful, is now suffering due to neglect, and the imminent storm threatens its already dwindling water levels. Mara explains the necessity of creating a tank to harvest rainwater and provide a stable resource for the villagers and the wildlife surrounding the lake. His passionate plea underscores the urgency of protecting their environment and ensuring the community’s survival, making it clear that such measures are crucial for sustaining both the lake and the life it supports.
5. Give an account of Mara’s vision of the Goddess on the night of the storm.
During the stormy night, Mara experiences a profound vision of the Goddess that is both awe-inspiring and intimidating. As the winds howl and rain crashes, her presence manifests, illuminating the darkness with her divine light. She appears fierce yet protective, conveying a sense of urgency. The Goddess communicates her expectations for Mara to fulfill his role as the protector of the lake. This vision invigorates Mara, filling him with determination to safeguard the lake’s sanctity. He recognizes that her fierce energy signifies both her displeasure with the neglect of the lake and her unwavering support for his mission to protect it.
6. How did Mara save the lake?
Mara saves the lake through a combination of courage, determination, and self sacrifice. Recognizing the dire need for protection and preservation, he takes it upon himself to confront the village headman and seek an audience with the king. By passionately advocating for the lake’s essential nature and the Goddess’s command, Mara raises awareness about the ecological crisis facing the community. Ultimately, he sacrifices his own safety, risking his life to convey the urgency of the situation and to ensure the construction of a tank, which will preserve the lake’s resources. His actions inspire others to honor their responsibilities toward nature.
7. Why did Mara meet the king for the first time?
Mara meets the king for the first time driven by a profound sense of urgency to protect the lake. After receiving a divine command from the Goddess, he feels compelled to take action, believing that only the king has the authority to initiate change. The lake, crucial to the villagers’ survival, is in peril, prompting Mara to seek the king’s intervention. He understands that his role as the lake’s watchman requires him to elevate the importance of the lake in the king’s eyes. Mara’s motivations are rooted in his sense of duty and a desire to preserve the sacred bond between the community and the environment.
8. How did Mara manage to meet the king for the first time?
Mara manages to meet the king for the first time through a courageous act of climbing a tree to position himself where the king would pass during a visit to the village. Recognizing the importance of making himself visible, Mara takes this risk to ensure that his message of urgency about the lake reaches the monarch. His determination and assertiveness showcase his devotion to the lake as he is willing to go to great lengths to convey the Goddess’s commands. By strategically placing himself in the king’s path, Mara not only demonstrates his ingenuity but also his unwavering commitment to protecting nature.
9. Describe the circumstances that prompted Mara to meet the king on the stormy night.
On the stormy night, several alarming circumstances prompt Mara to seek an audience with the king. The heavy rains and turbulent winds signify the dire state of the lake, which is already suffering from neglect. Mara interprets the storm as a sign of the Goddess’s displeasure and an urgent call for action. Additionally, he is aware that the villagers are growing increasingly concerned about the lake’s diminishing resources, which directly impacts their livelihoods. The combination of environmental crisis and spiritual urgency compels Mara to act immediately, pushing him to confront the king and advocate for the lake’s protection at this crucial moment.
10. How did the king respond to Mara’s information about the command of the Goddess?
Upon hearing Mara’s information about the command of the Goddess, the king initially approaches it with skepticism, even questioning Mara’s sanity. However, as Mara passionately conveys the sacred responsibility entrusted to him and the importance of the lake, the king begins to grasp the gravity of the situation. He recognizes the profound connection between the villagers and the lake. Eventually, moved by Mara’s devotion and the urgency of the Goddess’s message, the king decides to take action, showing a willingness to honor the divine command and implement measures to protect the lake for the wellbeing of his people.
11. Describe Mara’s reaction to the Goddess on the stormy night.
Mara’s reaction to the Goddess on the stormy night is a mixture of awe, reverence, and fear. As she appears amidst the chaos of the storm, her divine presence signifies both a warning and a call to action. While he is struck by the power she embodies, he also feels an overwhelming sense of responsibility for the lake and its creatures. This encounter solidifies his purpose; he realizes that he must fulfill her expectations as the lake’s protector. Mara’s emotions range from trepidation due to her fierce demeanor to inspiration, as he draws strength from her command to advocate for the lake and its preservation.
12. What did Mara request the Goddess and the king to save the lake?
Mara requests both the Goddess and the king to take immediate action to safeguard the lake. To the Goddess, he seeks her guidance and protection, pledging to honor her commands and convey them zealously to others. He asks her to inspire the community to recognize the lake’s importance and their role in its preservation. When addressing the king, Mara urges him to take proactive measures, specifically advocating for the construction of a tank that would replenish the lake and protect its resources. Through his appeals to both the divine and earthly authority, Mara emphasizes the need for collective responsibility to ensure the lake’s health and survival.
13. Why did the headman call Mara a lunatic? Give reasons.
The headman calls Mara a lunatic due to his unconventional beliefs and commitment to protecting the lake and its creatures, which he views as irrational. While the villagers prioritize immediate needs and economic concerns, Mara’s focus on spirituality and ecological balance is perceived as eccentricity. His insistence on honoring the Goddess’s commands and advocating for the lake’s preservation grates on the headman’s pragmatic approach, leading him to dismiss Mara’s warnings as mere superstition. The headman’s inability to see the importance of Mara’s mission reflects a broader societal tendency to ignore the spiritual and environmental dimensions of their lives, causing conflict.
14. ‘Nature is both protective and destructive.’ How does the play bring out this idea? The play “Watchman of the Lake” illustrates the duality of nature as protective and destructive through its portrayal of the lake’s role in the community’s life. The lake is depicted as a source of sustenance, embodying the protective aspect of nature by providing water and resources for the villagers. However, the storm symbolizes nature’s destructive potential, as it threatens to devastate the ecosystem and harm the community. Mara recognizes this duality when the Goddess appears to him amidst the storm, conveying both the power and the fragility of the natural world. This complexity serves as a reminder of the need to respect and protect nature to avoid its wrath.
15. Why did Mara treat the fisherman and the visitor differently?
Mara treats the fisherman and the visitor differently based on their attitudes toward the lake’s preservation. The fisherman is characterized as someone who exploits the lake’s resources without regard for its health, representing a mindset of immediate gain that threatens the ecosystem. In contrast, the visitor expresses concern for the lake, echoing Mara’s dedication to its wellbeing. Understanding the need for cooperation in protecting the lake, Mara chooses to engage more positively with the visitor, recognizing that likeminded individuals are crucial in advocating for environmental stewardship. This differential treatment reflects Mara’s commitment to fostering a community that values conservation over exploitation.
16. Describe the sacrifices made by Mara to build and to save the lake.
Mara makes profound sacrifices in his quest to build and save the lake. He first sacrifices his social standing, facing ridicule from the village headman and fellow villagers who dismiss his spiritual beliefs as lunacy. Undeterred, he risks his personal safety by climbing a tree to gain the king’s attention, a bold step that embodies his commitment. Ultimately, Mara makes the ultimate sacrifice of his life, willingly facing danger to protect the lake’s sanctity. His actions inspire the community to rally around the cause of the lake’s preservation, reflecting his unwavering commitment to ecological stewardship and the legacy he hopes to impart to future generations.
17. Do you think Mara took his responsibilities seriously in “Watchman of the Lake’? Illustrate.
Yes, Mara takes his responsibilities incredibly seriously in “Watchman of the Lake.” His unwavering commitment to protecting the lake and its ecosystem illustrates his deep moral conviction. From the outset, he dedicates himself to fulfilling the commands of the Goddess, which he perceives as a divine duty. His actions, such as seeking an audience with the king and urging the villagers to respect the lake, demonstrate his proactive approach to stewardship. Additionally, he imparts these values to his son, ensuring that his dedication to protecting nature extends beyond his lifetime. Mara’s diligence and sacrifices culminate in a powerful testament to his sense of responsibility.
18. Contrast the different moods of the Goddess that are portrayed in ‘Watchman of the Lake’.
In “Watchman of the Lake,” the moods of the Goddess reflect a complex relationship with nature and its guardians. Initially, she appears as a nurturing force, urging Mara to protect the lake and its creatures with love and reverence. This protective aspect embodies the essence of life and sustenance provided by nature. However, during the stormy night, her mood shifts to fierceness, reflecting the destructive power of nature when disrespected. This duality emphasizes that the Goddess’s presence encompasses both compassion and the ability to unleash chaos. Mara feels this tension acutely, illustrating how the relationship with nature demands both respect and responsibility.
19. How did Mara prepare his son to become the watchman of the lake?
Mara prepares his son to become the watchman of the lake through education and instilling values that respect nature. He shares his own experiences with the lake, imparting the importance of protecting its inhabitants and honoring the Goddess. Mara teaches his son the interconnectedness of life, emphasizing that their wellbeing is tied to the health of the lake. By modeling responsible behavior and showcasing his dedication, Mara inspires his son to embrace this role. He fosters a sense of duty and stewardship, ensuring that the values of respect, protection, and love for nature are passed down, thereby equipping his son for future challenges.
20. How was Mara treated differently by the king and the village headman in ‘Watchman of the Lake’?
Mara is treated differently by the king and the village headman in “Watchman of the Lake,” reflecting their contrasting perspectives. The village headman dismisses him as a lunatic, showing contempt for his spiritual beliefs and commitment to nature. He views Mara’s dedication as a nuisance that disrupts his pragmatic approach. In contrast, the king, though initially skeptical, eventually recognizes Mara’s sincerity and the gravity of his message. The king appreciates Mara’s passion for the lake and becomes more open to his ideas. This difference in treatment underscores the theme of respect for nature and the varying understandings of leadership in the community.
21. Compare and contrast the different circumstances that prompted Mara to meet the king.
Mara’s decision to meet the king stems from two distinct sets of circumstances, each marked by urgency and spiritual significance. The first encounter occurs when Mara seeks to convey the importance of the lake to the king due to a growing awareness that the lake is suffering from neglect. During this time, his motivation is rooted in a sense of duty imparted to him by the Goddess. In contrast, the second meeting unfolds during a stormy night, where the increasingly dire situation heightened both the ecological crisis and a deeper spiritual calling. This urgency transforms Mara’s plea into a desperate rescue mission, pushing him to confront authority to protect the environment he loves.
22. Mara is a common man with an uncommon determination. Do you agree? Justify.
I agree that Mara is a common man with uncommon determination. His character embodies the quintessential traits of a devoted villager, yet his commitment to protect the lake elevates him beyond the ordinary. While others may overlook the environmental crisis, Mara actively confronts societal indifference, risking ridicule and danger to fulfill the Goddess’s commands. His unwavering resolve to advocate for the lake, even at the cost of his own life, showcases a remarkable tenacity not often seen in everyday individuals. Mara’s journey reflects the profound impact that one individual can have when driven by a spirit of purpose and determination, inspiring others to recognize their responsibilities toward nature.
23. Sketch the character of Mara in ‘Watchman of the Lake’.
Mara is portrayed as a deeply compassionate and determined individual, embodying the spirit of a protector. His connection to the lake and the Goddess sets him apart as a character of profound spiritual significance. Mara is a visionary, able to perceive the larger ecological crisis affecting his community and taking bold steps to address it. Despite facing ridicule from the village headman, he remains committed to his beliefs and tirelessly advocates for the preservation of nature. His character evolves as he confronts challenges, ultimately taking on the role of a martyr for the lake, highlighting his selflessness and dedication to the environment and his community.
24. What were the incidents that led the king to build the shrine in ‘Watchman of the Lake’?
Several incidents culminate in the king’s decision to build the shrine in “Watchman of the Lake.” Initially, Mara’s passionate advocacy for the lake and his recounting of the Goddess’s commands draw the king’s attention. The stormy night acts as a catalyst, symbolizing nature’s fury and the urgency of Mara’s message, compelling the king to reflect on the lake’s significance. Moreover, Mara’s ultimate sacrifice reinforces the impact of his mission. Inspired by his unwavering dedication and the connection to the divine, the king recognizes his responsibility and the cultural importance of the lake, leading to the establishment of the shrine as a means to honor the Goddess and protect the ecosystem.