Textbook Solution: Eat From the Edges | Class 6 English Alive PDF Download

A. Who said these words and to whom?

Answer: Chandragupta said this to the old woman.

Explanation: Chandragupta asks the old woman for water as soon as she appears from the hut because he and Chanakya are very thirsty after their journey and battle.

Q 2. "We were outnumbered from the very beginning."

Answer: Chanakya said this to Chandragupta.

Explanation: Chanakya is explaining to Chandragupta why they were at a disadvantage in the battle against the Nanda army, emphasizing that they had fewer soldiers.

Q 3. "Why don't you listen to me?"

Answer: The old woman said this to her grandson, Hari.

Explanation: The old woman is scolding Hari because he did not follow her repeated advice about how to safely eat hot gruel.

Q 4. "I feel that failure is my destiny in life."

Answer: Chandragupta said this to Chanakya.

Explanation: Chandragupta is expressing his discouragement and loss of hope to Chanakya after experiencing several defeats.

Q 5. "I thank you and bow to you in gratitude, for on this day you have taught us a very valuable lesson indeed."

Answer: Chanakya said this to the old woman.

Explanation: Chanakya is acknowledging the wisdom of the old woman’s advice, which he and Chandragupta realize can be applied to their military strategy.

B. Answer these questions briefly.

Q 1. Why did Chandragupta and Chanakya stop at the old woman's hut?

Answer: Chandragupta and Chanakya stopped at the old woman’s hut because they were thirsty and needed a place to rest after a battle.

Explanation: The hut provided a place for them to rest, hydrate, and eventually gain unexpected strategic insights through a casual observation.

Q 2. According to Chanakya, why were they losing the battle each time?

Answer: They were losing because they were consistently outnumbered and were attacking the strongest part of the Nanda army.

Explanation: Chanakya noted that their direct approach against the most fortified part of the enemy was failing and needed a strategic change.

Q 3. What happened when Hari tried to eat his meal of rice gruel?

Answer: Hari burned his fingers when he tried to eat his meal from the centre of the plate.

Explanation: The gruel was hottest at the center, leading to him burning his fingers, illustrating the need to approach from the cooler, outer edges.

Q 4. Why did the old woman tell Hari to eat his food from the outer edges first?

Answer: She told him to eat from the outer edges first because the gruel cooled faster there compared to the center.

Explanation: This advice is practical for avoiding burns and also metaphorically significant in the context of their military strategy.

Q5.  What was the new battle strategy planned by Chanakya, based on the words of the old woman?

Answer: The new strategy involved attacking the outer edges (weaker parts) of the Nanda army instead of confronting their strongest forces head-on.

Explanation: This approach, inspired by the old woman’s advice, aimed to exploit the weaker sections of the enemy, allowing for easier victories and gradual weakening of the Nanda forces.

C. Think and answer the questions.

Q 1. Comment on the relationship between Chandragupta and Chanakya. Did Chandragupta always listen to his teacher? Was he inspired by the wisdom of his teacher?

Answer: The relationship between Chandragupta and Chanakya was based on deep respect and trust. Chandragupta always listened to his teacher and was inspired by his wisdom, even in moments of despair.

Explanation: Despite facing many setbacks, Chandragupta adhered to Chanakya's guidance, drawing inspiration from his strategies and beliefs, which is evident in how he accepted the new battle strategy.

Q 2. Who do you think was headstrong- Chanakya or Chandragupta? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer: Chanakya was more headstrong than Chandragupta.

Explanation: Chanakya displayed firm resolve and strategic focus, consistently advocating for persistence despite numerous defeats. His ability to derive a new strategy from a simple observation shows his strong will and intellectual leadership.

Q 3. What did Chandragupta want to do for the old woman before they left? What does this tell you about his character?

Answer: Chandragupta wanted to repair the old woman’s leaking hut before they left.

Explanation: This gesture shows that Chandragupta was compassionate and grateful, reflecting the qualities of a benevolent leader who values the contributions and well-being of even the humblest individuals.