Short & Long Questions: Rikki-tikki and nag | New English Ferry: Book Solutions, Notes & Worksheets - Class 5 PDF Download

Short Answer Questions

Q1: Who is Chuchundra, and why is he described as a broken-hearted little beast?
Ans: Chuchundra is a muskrat who is described as a broken-hearted little beast because he is too scared to run into the middle of the room. He whimpers and cheeps all night.

Q2: Why does Rikki-tikki-tavi go for a nightly walk around the house?
Ans: Rikki-tikki-tavi goes for a nightly walk around the house to ensure the safety of Teddy and his family from potential dangers.

Q3: Why is Chuchundra sure that Nag won't mistake him for Rikki-tikki-tavi?
Ans: Chuchundra is sure that Nag won't mistake him for Rikki-tikki-tavi because Nag is in the garden, and Chuchundra knows that Rikki-tikki-tavi doesn't go there.

Q4: How does Rikki-tikki-tavi know that Nag and Nagaina are plotting something in the moonlight?
Ans: Rikki-tikki-tavi overhears Nag and Nagaina whispering together outside Teddy's mother's bathroom in the moonlight.

Q5: What does Nagaina suggest to Nag as their plan to take over the bungalow?
Ans: Nagaina suggests that Nag should quietly go in and bite the big man first, and then they can hunt for Rikki-tikki-tavi together.

Q6: Why is Rikki-tikki-tavi frightened when he sees Nag's head through the sluice?
Ans: Rikki-tikki-tavi is frightened because Nag is a large cobra, and his size intimidates Rikki-tikki.

Q7: How does Rikki-tikki-tavi plan to attack Nag while he is wrapped around the water jar?
Ans: Rikki-tikki-tavi plans to attack Nag by biting the head, the part above the hood, and not letting go.

Q8: Why does Rikki-tikki-tavi decide not to bite the neck below the hood or the tail of Nag?
Ans: Rikki-tikki-tavi decides not to bite the neck below the hood because it would be too much for him, and a bite near the tail would only make Nag angry.

Q9: Describe the intense fight between Rikki-tikki-tavi and Nag after the bite.
Ans: Rikki-tikki-tavi is battered to and fro, shaken violently, and tossed around like a rat shaken by a dog, but he holds on.

Q10: What saves Rikki-tikki-tavi from Nag's final attack, and who rescues him?
Ans: A thunderclap-like sound and red fire save Rikki-tikki-tavi, and the big man rescues him by firing both barrels of a shotgun into Nag.

Long Answer Questions

Q1: Describe the character of Chuchundra and explain why he is broken-hearted in the story.
Ans: Chuchundra is a muskrat in the story who is broken-hearted. He whimpers and cheeps all night, attempting to gather the courage to run into the middle of the room but never succeeds. Chuchundra's broken-heartedness likely stems from fear or anxiety, and his timid nature prevents him from taking decisive actions.

Q2: Explain Rikki-tikki's vow to save Teddy and his family from all dangers.
Ans: Rikki-tikki is determined to protect Teddy and his family from any potential harm, particularly from the threat posed by the snakes Nag and Nagaina. His vow reflects his sense of responsibility and bravery as he takes on the role of a protector for the human family he has adopted.

Q3: Why is there no chance of Nag mistaking Chuchundra for Rikki-tikki-tavi at night?
Ans: Nag won't mistake Chuchundra for Rikki-tikki-tavi at night because Chuchundra avoids the garden where Nag is present. Rikki-tikki knows this, assuring him that there's no danger of Nag confusing the two in the dark.

Q4: Discuss Rikki-tikki's ability to hear the movements of snakes at night.
Ans: Rikki-tikki possesses a keen sense of hearing that allows him to detect the faint scratch-scratch of a snake's scales on brickwork at night. This ability is crucial for his role as a protector, enabling him to be aware of the snakes' presence and movements in the darkness.

Q5: Explain the plan discussed by Nag and Nagaina regarding killing the people in the bungalow.
Ans: Nag and Nagaina plan to enter the bungalow quietly, with Nag biting the big man first. They intend to kill the big man, his wife, and the child if possible. The ultimate goal is to leave the bungalow empty, forcing Rikki-tikki to vacate the premises.

Q6: Describe Rikki-tikki's strategy for attacking Nag near the water jar.
Ans: Rikki-tikki plans to bite down on Nag's head above the hood while he is wrapped around the water jar. He aims for a strategic location that would incapacitate Nag without provoking an angry response.

Q7: Discuss the intensity of Rikki-tikki's fight with Nag near the water jar.
Ans: During the fight, Rikki-tikki is battered to and fro like a rat shaken by a dog. He holds on despite being thrown around, demonstrating his determination and courage. The struggle is intense, and Rikki-tikki's eyes are red, but he manages to hold on until the big man intervenes.

Q8: Explain Rikki-tikki's feelings after the fight with Nag and the unexpected interruption.
Ans: After the fight, Rikki-tikki feels dizzy, aching, and as if he has been shaken to pieces. His moment of relief is interrupted by a thunderclap as the big man fires a shotgun into Nag. This unexpected event adds to the intensity of the situation and Rikki-tikki's overall experience.

Q9: Provide adjectives to describe the characters Chuchundra, Rikki-tikki-tavi, and the big man.
Ans: Chuchundra: Timid, broken-hearted; Rikki-tikki-tavi: Brave, determined; Big man: Protective, alert.

Q10: Reflect on Rudyard Kipling's influence on the story, considering his background and love for Indian culture.
Ans: Rudyard Kipling, born in India, infused the story with his love for Indian culture. The setting, characters, and themes reflect his deep connection to the region. Kipling's storytelling captures the essence of the jungle, emphasizing bravery and the struggle between good and evil, making "Rikki-tikki-tavi" a timeless tale with cultural richness.