Test : Kathmandu - Class 9 MCQ

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage.

Key points about Kathmandu:

• Location: Situated in the Kathmandu Valley, surrounded by the Himalayas.
• Culture: A melting pot of various ethnic groups and traditions.
• Landmarks: Home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath and Durbar Square.
• Economy: Major centre for trade, tourism, and commerce in Nepal.

Kathmandu offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern development, making it a fascinating place to visit or live.

Vikram Seth is the author of the lesson ‘Kathmandu’. He is a renowned Indian poet and novelist, known for his insightful writing and unique style.

Some key points about Vikram Seth:

• Born on June 20, 1952, in Calcutta, India.
• He studied at prestigious institutions like Oxford and Harvard.
• His works often explore themes of love, nature, and the human experience.

Through his writing, Seth offers readers a glimpse into the beauty and culture of Kathmandu, making it a significant piece in contemporary literature.

Pashupatinath Temple is a significant Hindu temple located in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is renowned for its rich cultural and religious heritage. Here are some key points about the temple:

• The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.
• It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year.
• The temple complex features stunning architecture, including intricate carvings and beautiful pagoda-style structures.
• Visitors can witness various rituals, including cremation ceremonies along the banks of the sacred Bagmati River.
• Only Hindus are permitted to enter the main temple area, while others can observe from designated viewpoints.

The atmosphere around Pashupatinath is vibrant, filled with the sounds of chanting, the ringing of bells, and the presence of devotees engaged in worship.

• Only practising Hindus may enter the inner temple courtyard.
• Non-Hindus (which includes foreign tourists) are asked to remain outside.
• This rule preserves the temple’s religious sanctity and tradition.

• Seth describes a scene of hurried activity and pushing crowds.
• Priests, devotees, hawkers, animals and mourners all jostle for space.
• This chaotic, feverish energy is aptly called “febrile confusion.”

The river that flows through Kathmandu is the Bagmati.

• The Bagmati River is one of the most important rivers in Nepal.
• It holds significant cultural and religious value, particularly for Hindus.
• The river is known for its scenic beauty and is often visited by locals and tourists alike.
• It flows through the Kathmandu Valley, providing vital water resources.

Other rivers in the region include:

• Kosi
• Gandak
• Khalsa

However, the primary river associated with Kathmandu is the Bagmati.

According to local belief, when the small shrine on the Bagmati riverbank fully emerges from the stone platform, the following will occur:

• The evil period of Kaliyug will end on earth.
• This event signifies a major shift in spiritual and cultural beliefs.
• It is viewed as a moment of hope and renewal for the community.

The emergence of the shrine is seen as a powerful symbol, reflecting the local traditions and the significance of the Bagmati River in Hindu culture.

Pashupatinath Temple and Baudnath Temple are both significant religious sites located in Kathmandu, Nepal. Here’s an overview of each:

• Pashupatinath Temple:
  • One of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Located on the banks of the Bagmati River.
  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting thousands of pilgrims annually.
• Baudnath Temple:
  • A large Buddhist stupa, one of the largest in the world.
  • Considered a sacred site for Tibetan Buddhists.
  • Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its impressive architecture.

Both temples reflect the rich cultural and religious diversity of Kathmandu, making the area a vibrant centre of spirituality and heritage.

At the Baudnath Stupa in Kathmandu, the atmosphere is characterised by a profound sense of stillness. Here are some key aspects:

• The stupa features a large white dome surrounded by a road.
• Small shops, many owned by Tibetan immigrants, line the outer edge, offering items like:
  • Felt bags
  • Tibetan prints
  • Silver jewellery
• Unlike the bustling streets of Kathmandu, the area around the stupa is a haven of quietness.
• Visitors can enjoy a peaceful experience, free from the usual crowds.

In the streets of Kathmandu, you can find a variety of vendors offering unique items:

• Fruit sellers providing fresh, local produce.
• Flute sellers offering traditional musical instruments.
• Hawkers of postcards selling souvenirs and local art.

These vendors add to the vibrant atmosphere of the city, showcasing its rich culture and commerce.

The streets of Kathmandu are characterised by their distinctive features:

• Narrowness: Many streets are quite narrow, making it challenging for larger vehicles to pass.
• Busyness: These streets are among the busiest in the area, filled with both locals and tourists.
• Combination: Thus, it is accurate to say they are both narrow and busiest simultaneously.

These aspects create a unique atmosphere in Kathmandu, drawing visitors eager to experience its vibrant culture.

The author returned to Delhi from Nepal by plane.

The decision to fly was influenced by several factors:

• The author felt exhausted and homesick.
• He wanted to move directly towards home.
• After considering various travel options, he opted for the quickest route.
• He purchased a ticket from a Nepal Airlines office for the next day's flight.

This choice reflects a desire for convenience and a swift return after a long journey.

The flutes on the pole of the flute seller are compared to the quills of a porcupine. This imagery highlights the way the flutes, made of bamboo, protrude in various directions. The comparison suggests:

• The flutes are numerous and varied, similar to how quills are arranged.
• Each flute has its own unique sound, just as each quill serves a specific purpose.
• The visual impact is striking, drawing attention to the flute seller's display.

This vivid description enhances the reader's understanding of the flute seller's craft and the cultural significance of the flutes.

The flute being sold is the bansuri.

The bansuri is a traditional Indian flute made of bamboo. Here are some key points about it:

• The bansuri has a unique sound that is deep and resonant.
• It is commonly used in Hindustani classical music.
• The flute seller displays many bansuris, resembling the quills of a porcupine.
• He plays the bansuri slowly and meditatively, creating a calming atmosphere.

This instrument is not just a musical tool; it connects deeply with cultural expressions and emotions.

The author finds it difficult to leave the square because of the enchanting flute music.

The flute music captivates him for several reasons:

• Universal appeal: Flute music is found in every culture, making it a sound that resonates with everyone.
• Emotional connection: The melodies evoke deep feelings, drawing him into a shared human experience.
• Unique qualities: Each flute has its distinct sound, yet they all share a common essence that connects people.

Overall, the combination of the music's beauty and its cultural significance makes it hard for the author to tear himself away from the square.