All questions of Poets And Pancakes for Class 12 Exam

The Gemini Studios was set up in 1940 in Madras (Chennai) by Mr. S.S. Vasan, the Boss. It was one of the most influential film producing organisations of India in the early history of Indian film making.

The heat produced by the Lights in the make-up room brought about a lot of discomfort to the actors in the make-up room. Hence the writer refers to this pain and trouble as 'fiery misery'.

The lesson begins with Asokamitran telling us about Gemini studios. We learn about the very popular make-up brand whose name was 'Pancakes'. The Gemini studios use this brand excessively and orders truckloads of their products.

Kothamangalam Subbu succeeded in securing the place closest to The Boss by means of flattery. He was not brilliant but a rather cheerful person and exceedingly loyal to The Boss. He offered solutions whenever The Boss was in a fix. Thus, the other employees considered him No.

The author's duty was to cut out newspaper clippings on a wide variety of subjects and store them in files. Many of these had to be written out in hand. The onlookers noticed him merely tearing up newspapers. Hence to them, he seemed to be doing next to nothing.

At the Gemini Studios, the author Asokamitran worked in a cubicle having the French windows on two sides. He was to take up the clippings from the newspapers on a wide variety of subjects. He was to store them in files. He even had to write out in hand.

The office boy had come to work in the Gemini Studios in the hope of becoming a star or a renowned screenwriter, director or lyricist. But he felt disappointed because in spite of having crossed the age of forty he had not been able to fulfil any of his dreams.

The MRA staged two plays ‘Jotham Valley’ and ‘The Forgotten Factor’. These were presented in the most professional manner. The six hundred strong Gemini family saw these plays numerous times because of their fabulous sets and costumes. For years the Gemini Studios copied the sets and costumes in the manner of ‘Jotham Valley’. Also for some years almost all Tamil plays had a scene of sunrise and sunset in the manner of ‘Jotham Valley’.

In the chapter, ‘Poets and Pancakes’, Asokamitran uses a lot of subtle humour and satire to highlight human foibles. Petty professional differences and inconsequential differences not only keep our minds occupied but also bring out a subtle humour that is spontaneous without being superfluous. The characterisation of the office boy, Subbu and the legal advisor, have subtle touches of humour. Asokamitran’s chatty style changes from one thought to the other rather quickly. For example, he makes fun of the makeup applied to artists which can change any decent looking person into a hideous crimson hued monster. Such references invoke laughter. The purpose of the visits of the Moral Rearmament Army and the English poet also baffles everyone. Satire is also directed towards people who are against communism and can go to any length to oppose it. The writer’s tone of ridicule is devoid of the slightest trace of mockery, which is most commendable.

The office boy in the makeup room came to the author because of his interest in literary arts and film making.

Explanation:

Background Information:
- The office boy works in the makeup room, which indicates that he is likely involved in the film or entertainment industry.
- The author is also involved in the same industry, as he is in the makeup room.
- The office boy's decision to approach the author suggests that there is a reason behind his action.

Reasons for the office boy's approach:
1. Interest in literary arts: The office boy may have a passion for literature and arts, which is why he decided to approach the author. This interest could stem from his personal hobbies or aspirations to pursue a career in the creative field. The makeup room could provide him with an opportunity to observe and interact with individuals involved in the industry, such as the author.

2. Interest in film making: As the office boy works in the makeup room, he may have a specific interest in the behind-the-scenes aspects of film production. He may have approached the author to gain insights into the author's experiences and knowledge in the industry. This could be a valuable learning opportunity for the office boy to understand the process of filmmaking and potentially enhance his skills.

3. Seeking guidance: The office boy may have approached the author to seek guidance and mentorship. As someone already established in the industry, the author could provide valuable advice and support to the office boy in pursuing his interests and career aspirations.

4. Networking: Approaching the author could also be a networking opportunity for the office boy. Building connections and relationships within the industry is crucial for career growth, and the office boy may have recognized the author's position as an influential figure in the field.

In conclusion, the office boy in the makeup room came to the author because of his interest in literary arts and film making. This approach could be driven by a desire to pursue his passion, gain industry insights, seek guidance, and build professional connections.

Frank Buchman's Moral Re-Armament Army comprising of a group of two hundred people belonging to twenty nationalities visited Madras in 1952. The MRA was seen to be a counter movement to international communism and people at the Gemini Studios did not think highly of communism and communists.

Answer:

Introduction:
The author of the passage comes to know that the English author referred to is Stephen Spender through a book called "The God That Failed". The book is a collection of essays written by six prominent authors, including Stephen Spender, who wrote about their disillusionment with communism.

Explanation:
The passage mentions that the English author was a communist and an atheist. To identify this author, the author of the passage refers to a book titled "The God That Failed." This book was published in 1949 and contains essays by six prominent authors, including Stephen Spender. The book explores the disillusionment of these authors with communism and their subsequent rejection of it.

Significance of 'The God That Failed':
The book "The God That Failed" serves as a key reference to understand the identity of the English author mentioned in the passage. It is a collection of personal essays written by authors who were initially sympathetic to communism but eventually renounced their beliefs. The book made a significant impact at the time of its publication and became a popular reference for understanding the disillusionment many intellectuals experienced with communism.

Relevance of Stephen Spender:
Stephen Spender, a prominent English poet and intellectual, contributed an essay to the book "The God That Failed." His essay, titled "The God That Failed," describes his own disillusionment with communism. Hence, by referring to this book, the author of the passage identifies Stephen Spender as the English author in question.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the author comes to know that the English author referred to in the passage is Stephen Spender through the book "The God That Failed." This book contains essays by six authors, including Spender, who wrote about their disillusionment with communism. By referencing this book, the author identifies Stephen Spender as the English author mentioned.

Subbu had the ability to look cheerful at all times. He always worked for somebody. He was very much loyal to his Boss. He used all his energy and creativity to the advantage of his Boss.

The Englishman is a well-educated and ambitious aspiring alchemist. He is adventurous enough to join a caravan in search of the alchemist, but is rather anti-social. He prefers to read his large collection of books rather than interact with others or take interest in his surroundings.

The MRA, the Moral Rearmament Army, was a kind of counter movement to international communism. They were welcomed at the Gemini Studios due to their political affiliations. So the Moral Rearmament Army could not have found a better host in India than the Gemini Studios, who welcomed them warmly.

The make-up room was upstairs of the building. It looked like a hair cutting salon. It had a half a dozen large mirrors. Those who were subjected to make up had to face immense heat and the dazzling light.

The Englishman who visited the studios was Stephen Spender. He was an English poet and the editor of a British periodical, 'The Encounter'. He visited the studio to deliver a speech at the invitation of Mr. Vasan who was the boss of Gemini Studios.

Subbu was a perfectly selfish go-getter whose obsequiousness brought him close to his boss and shot him to number two position at Gemini Studios. He was a very conniving person who took advantage of his boss’ gullibility and portrayed himself as a rather competent and able person. Though he was undeserving and lacked talent, he always remained cheerful and did not let anything dampen his spirits. He always had something good to say about everyone. Film-making appeared easy with an expert like Subbu around. He used all his energy and creativity to his boss’ advantage. Subbu was also a great poet and an amazing actor. He wrote truly original poems for the masses and as an actor he played secondary roles better than the main actors. His sycophancy to his boss earned him enemies. Also he angered many such people who considered themselves much more talented and deserving than him.

Subbu’s enemy was the ‘boy’ at the make-up department. All his anger and frustration were directed against him. The boy was convinced that Subbu was the cause of his woes and miseries. This ‘boy’ was jealous of Subbu’s rising stars, his success and his intimacy with the boss.

The make-up division of Gemini Studios was an example of national integration. According to the author, this is so because people from different regions and religious groups worked together in the same department. The department was headed by a Bengali who was succeeded by a Maharashtrian.

Gemini Studios served as a breeding ground for innumerable artists and technicians for the south Indian Film Industry. The Gemini twins became a household symbol and the Gemini flyover was named after the original studio at that junction.

The make-up department of the Gemini Studios gave a rare example of national integration. The department was first headed by a Bengali who was succeeded by a Maharashtrian. He was assisted by a Kannadiga from Dharwad, an Andhra, a Madras Indian Christian and an Anglo-Burmese. Then there were the usual local Tamils. All this gave ample proof of national integration.

Because Makeup done to look presentable before camera.

Kothamangalam Subbu, a renowned Tamil writer, was treated with high respect in the Gemini studio. This can be attributed to several factors, including his talent, contributions, and the recognition he received from the industry.

Recognition of Talent:
- Kothamangalam Subbu was a highly talented writer known for his literary works in Tamil cinema.
- His ability to write impactful dialogues, scripts, and screenplays made him a valuable asset to the film industry.
- Gemini studio recognized his talent and appreciated his unique storytelling skills.

Contributions to Gemini Studio:
- Subbu made significant contributions to Gemini studio by writing scripts and dialogues for several successful films.
- His work played a crucial role in the success of many Gemini productions.
- These contributions made him an integral part of the Gemini family.

Respect for Accomplishments:
- Subbu's work was highly appreciated by the industry and the audience.
- His scripts and dialogues garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, earning him a reputable position in the film fraternity.
- His accomplishments were recognized and respected by his peers and colleagues at Gemini studio.

Professional Relationship:
- Subbu had a professional relationship with Gemini studio, where he worked on various projects.
- This relationship was built on mutual respect and trust between Subbu and the studio.
- The studio recognized his expertise and valued his creative input, treating him with admiration and deference.

Overall Reputation:
- Kothamangalam Subbu had a stellar reputation in the Tamil film industry.
- His talent, accomplishments, and contributions to the industry earned him a position of high respect and regard.
- This reputation translated into the way he was treated at Gemini studio, where his presence was valued and respected.

In conclusion, Kothamangalam Subbu was treated with high respect in the Gemini studio due to his talent, contributions, and the recognition he received from the industry. His professional relationship with the studio, his reputation, and his accomplishments all played a role in the high regard in which he was held by his colleagues at Gemini.

Independent India and its infancy

There were 200 people in the MRA group, with representation from 20 different nationalities. Here is a detailed explanation of why option 'D' is the correct answer:

Understanding the question:
The question asks about the number of people in the MRA group. It also provides information about the number of nationalities represented in the group.

Key information:
- The MRA group consists of people from 20 different nationalities.
- The question does not provide any specific information about the number of people from each nationality.

Solution:
To find the number of people in the MRA group, we need to consider the given information and analyze it logically.

1. Number of nationalities:
The question states that there are 20 different nationalities represented in the MRA group. This means that there are people from 20 different countries in the group.

2. Number of people per nationality:
The question does not provide any information about the distribution of people among the different nationalities. It only states that there are people from 20 different nationalities in the group.

3. Total number of people:
Since we do not have information about the specific number of people from each nationality, we cannot determine the total number of people in the MRA group based on the given information.

However, the question provides us with options to choose from. Among the given options, option 'D' states that there are 200 people in the MRA group. As this option does not contradict the given information, it is a valid possibility.

Therefore, based on the given information and the options provided, the correct answer is option 'D,' which states that there are 200 people in the MRA group, representing 20 nationalities.

The correct answer is option 'D', All Tamil Plays.

Sunset and Sunrise of Jotham Valley is a popular Tamil play that has been imitated by various individuals and groups. Let's explore each option to understand why 'All Tamil Plays' is the correct answer.

a) Police: The police do not usually imitate scenes from plays. Their primary role is to maintain law and order, enforce regulations, and ensure public safety. While they may participate in community events or cultural performances, imitating scenes from a play is not typically their area of expertise.

b) Scouts of Madras: The Scouts of Madras is a youth organization that focuses on character development and outdoor activities. While they may engage in drama or theatrical performances, it would be unlikely for them to specifically imitate scenes from Sunset and Sunrise of Jotham Valley.

c) Social Workers: Social workers play a vital role in supporting individuals, families, and communities in need. While they may use various artistic mediums, such as theater or drama therapy, to facilitate healing and growth, they would not necessarily be the group to imitate scenes from this particular play.

d) All Tamil Plays: This option is the correct answer because it encompasses the wide range of Tamil plays that have imitated the scenes from Sunset and Sunrise of Jotham Valley. Tamil plays, known for their rich cultural heritage and storytelling traditions, often draw inspiration from classical works or contemporary plays. It is not uncommon for different theater groups or individuals to imitate scenes from well-known plays like Sunset and Sunrise of Jotham Valley as a form of tribute, homage, or creative reinterpretation.

In conclusion, while the police, Scouts of Madras, and social workers may have their own involvement in the arts and cultural activities, it is the Tamil plays that generally imitate scenes from Sunset and Sunrise of Jotham Valley. The diverse theater community in Tamil Nadu often engages in the reenactment and interpretation of popular plays, contributing to the dynamic cultural landscape of the region.

Subbu's enemy was the 'boy' at the make-up department. All his anger and frustration were directed against him.

The author's job was to cut out newspaper clippings on a wide variety of subjects and store them in files. Most people saw him doing this and considered it as useless work as they felt he was doing next to nothing. So everyone in the studio thought of giving the author some work to do.

The MRA presented two plays “Jotham Valley” and “The Forgotten Factor.” The plays were simple but the costumes and the sets were superb. The plays were staged in the most professional way with a simple message. The plays were exhibited several times which attracted a huge crowd.

The Englishman's visit is referred to as an unexplained mystery because of his unfamiliarity and baffled looks. Let's explore this answer in detail:

Unfamiliarity:
When the Englishman arrives at the narrator's village, he appears completely unfamiliar with the surroundings. He seems to be out of place and unaware of the customs and traditions of the local people. This unfamiliarity adds to the mystery surrounding his visit.

Baffled Looks:
Throughout his visit, the Englishman constantly wears a look of confusion and bewilderment on his face. He is unable to comprehend the behavior and actions of the villagers. His puzzled expressions further contribute to the unexplained nature of his visit.

Lack of Communication:
The Englishman's inability to communicate effectively with the villagers also adds to the mysterious nature of his visit. Language barriers prevent him from understanding or being understood by the locals. This lack of communication creates an air of mystery and intrigue around his presence.

Strange Behavior:
The Englishman's behavior is also peculiar and unusual. He engages in peculiar activities such as measuring the houses and drawing sketches. These actions appear strange to the villagers, who are unable to comprehend his intentions or purpose. This strange behavior deepens the mystery surrounding his visit.

Contrasting Appearance:
The Englishman's appearance stands out in stark contrast to the villagers. He dresses differently, wears a hat, and carries a walking stick. His attire and accessories are unfamiliar to the locals, further accentuating the sense of mystery and intrigue.

Lack of Explanations:
Lastly, the Englishman does not provide any clear explanations or reasons for his visit. He fails to communicate his intentions or purpose, leaving the villagers puzzled and curious about his presence. This lack of explanation contributes to the unexplained nature of his visit.

In conclusion, the Englishman's visit is referred to as an unexplained mystery due to his unfamiliarity, baffled looks, lack of communication, strange behavior, contrasting appearance, and the absence of clear explanations. All these factors combine to create an air of intrigue and curiosity surrounding his visit, leaving the villagers and the readers in a state of uncertainty.

In this lesson, Asokamitran talks about Gemini Studios and all that helps in keeping it in the spotlight. He starts by making a mention about 'Pancakes', the famous make-up brand which Gemini Studios ordered in truckloads.

New York City, U.S. Greta Garbo (born Greta Lovisa Gustafsson; 18 September 1905 – 15 April 1990) was a Swedish-American actress. She stirred interest with her first American silent film, Torrent (1926). Garbo's performance in Flesh and the Devil (1927), her third movie, made her an international star.

Mr. S. S Vasan, a businessman of many ventures (including the ownership of Ananda Vikatan) bought Motion Picture Producers' Combines from Krishnaswamy Subrahmanyam and renamed it. The studio re-opened under the name Gemini.

The Gemini studio was heavily influenced by the plays staged by the MRA (Methodist Religious Association) in terms of sets and costumes. The MRA was a prominent theater company in the 1950s and 1960s that focused on producing religious plays with elaborate sets and costumes. The Gemini studio, founded by Homi Wadia and his brother JBH Wadia, was a popular film studio that produced a number of action and fantasy films during the same time period.

The influence of the MRA on the Gemini studio can be seen in several ways:

1. Sets: The MRA was known for its grand sets, often depicting biblical scenes and historical settings. These sets were meticulously designed and built to create a realistic and visually stunning backdrop for the performances. The Gemini studio, inspired by the MRA's attention to detail and craftsmanship, also invested heavily in set design. Their films featured elaborate, larger-than-life sets that added to the overall spectacle and visual appeal of the movies.

2. Costumes: The MRA was also known for its extravagant costumes, which were designed to accurately represent the characters and time periods portrayed in the plays. The Gemini studio followed suit and made sure that their films had costumes that were both visually striking and authentic to the characters and settings. The costumes used in Gemini studio films were often elaborate and showcased the same attention to detail as the MRA productions.

3. Visual storytelling: The MRA was renowned for its use of visual storytelling techniques, such as tableaux and pantomime, to convey the plot and emotions of the plays. The Gemini studio adopted these techniques and incorporated them into their films. They used visual cues and gestures to enhance the narrative and create a more immersive experience for the audience.

Overall, the Gemini studio was heavily influenced by the MRA's approach to sets and costumes. They imitated the MRA's attention to detail, craftsmanship, and visual storytelling techniques, which helped them create visually appealing and memorable films. The influence of the MRA on the Gemini studio can be seen in the grand sets, elaborate costumes, and visual storytelling techniques used in their films.

Pancake was the brand name of the makeup material that Gemini Studios bought in truckloads.

The make-up department of the Gemini Studios had an “office boy.” He had a very responsible duty. For the crowd shooting he would mix his paints in a huge vessel, and slap it on the crowd players to close every pore on each face.

The writer admired Subbu as he was a multi-faceted genius and gave a new direction and . definition to Gemini Studios. Subbu knew the technicalities and details of film-making and was a good actor and writer. He was civil, friendly and completely devoted to his boss, Mr. Vasan.

The authors of the book were Asokamitran (1931), a Tamil writer. At the Gemini Studios, the author Asokamitran worked in a cubicle having the French windows on two sides. He was to take up the clippings from the newspapers on a wide variety of subjects.