Gopal and the Hilsa Fish – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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7th

7th - English

Gopal and the Hilsa Fish

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Overview of the Chapter

The chapter "Gopal and the Hilsa Fish" is a humorous story from the CBSE Grade 7 English textbook. It revolves around a witty and clever character named Gopal, who is challenged by the king to bring a Hilsa fish to the palace without anyone talking about it. The story highlights Gopal's intelligence and creativity in accomplishing the seemingly impossible task.

Hilsa Fish: A popular fish in South Asia, known for its taste and significance in Bengali cuisine.

Summary of the Story

The story begins with the king's courtiers discussing the Hilsa fish, which was in season. The king, annoyed by the constant talk about the fish, challenges anyone to bring a Hilsa to the palace without anyone mentioning it. Gopal accepts the challenge. He disguises himself by shaving half his beard, smearing ash on his face, and wearing rags. When he enters the palace carrying the fish, everyone is so distracted by his bizarre appearance that no one notices the Hilsa. The king is amused and impressed by Gopal's cleverness.

Key Themes

  • Wit and Intelligence: Gopal's ability to think creatively helps him succeed in the challenge.
  • Humour: The story is filled with funny situations, especially Gopal's unusual appearance.
  • Distraction: The story shows how people can be easily distracted from the main topic.

Moral of the Story

The story teaches that intelligence and creativity can help overcome difficult challenges. It also emphasizes the importance of thinking outside the box to solve problems.

Characters

  • Gopal: A clever and witty courtier who outsmarts everyone with his plan.
  • The King: The ruler who sets the challenge and is amused by Gopal's antics.
  • Courtiers: The king's attendants who are easily distracted by Gopal's appearance.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
Who is the main character in Gopal and the Hilsa Fish?
Answer:

Gopal is the main character.

Question 2:
What did Gopal buy from the market?
Answer:

Gopal bought a Hilsa fish.

Question 3:
Why did people laugh at Gopal?
Answer:

He carried the fish strangely.

Question 4:
What was the king's challenge to Gopal?
Answer:

To bring a Hilsa fish silently.

Question 5:
How did Gopal dress to complete the challenge?
Answer:

He wore torn clothes.

Question 6:
What distracted people from the Hilsa fish?
Answer:

Gopal's funny appearance.

Question 7:
Where did Gopal buy the Hilsa fish?
Answer:

From the market.

Question 8:
What did the king think of Gopal's plan?
Answer:

He was impressed.

Question 9:
What lesson does Gopal and the Hilsa Fish teach?
Answer:

Wisdom beats strength.

Question 10:
How did Gopal carry the fish?
Answer:

He tied it to a stick.

Question 11:
Why was the king surprised?
Answer:

No one talked about the fish.

Question 12:
What did Gopal do to avoid attention?
Answer:

He acted foolishly.

Question 13:
What was the season in the story?
Answer:

Hilsa fish season.

Question 14:
How did Gopal prove his intelligence?
Answer:

By completing the challenge.

Question 15:
What challenge did the king give Gopal?
Answer:

To bring the Hilsa fish without anyone talking about it.

Question 16:
What was the reaction of the king’s courtiers to Gopal?
Answer:

They ignored him and didn’t mention the fish.

Question 17:
Where did Gopal place the fish while walking?
Answer:

He balanced it on his head.

Question 18:
Why did the king reward Gopal?
Answer:

For successfully completing the challenge.

Question 19:
What distracted people from noticing the fish?
Answer:

Gopal’s unusual appearance and behavior.

Question 20:
Name one quality of Gopal shown in the story.
Answer:

He was clever and witty.

Question 21:
What was the king’s initial doubt about Gopal?
Answer:

He thought Gopal would fail the challenge.

Question 22:
How did Gopal prove the king wrong?
Answer:

By making people ignore the fish.

Question 23:
What was the setting of the story?
Answer:

A kingdom where Hilsa fish was famous.

Question 24:
What was the challenge given to Gopal?
Answer:

To bring the fish without anyone noticing.

Question 25:
How did Gopal disguise himself?
Answer:

He dressed as a madman.

Question 26:
Where did Gopal take the Hilsa fish?
Answer:

To the king's court.

Question 27:
Why did no one notice the fish?
Answer:

They were distracted by his appearance.

Question 28:
What lesson does the story teach?
Answer:

Wisdom can solve difficult problems.

Question 29:
Who wrote Gopal and the Hilsa Fish?
Answer:

It is a folk tale from India.

Question 30:
What was Gopal's profession?
Answer:

He was a courtier.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
How did Gopal disguise himself before meeting the king?
Answer:

Gopal disguised himself by wearing torn clothes, smearing ash on his body, and carrying a half-shaven face. This made him look like a madman, ensuring no one would recognize him.

Question 2:
What challenge did the king give to Gopal?
Answer:

The king challenged Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish to the palace without anyone talking about it. He wanted to test Gopal's cleverness and wit.

Question 3:
Why did no one notice Gopal carrying the Hilsa fish?
Answer:

No one noticed because Gopal's bizarre appearance and behavior distracted everyone. They were too busy talking about his strange looks instead of the fish.

Question 4:
How did Gopal prove his wisdom to the king?
Answer:

Gopal proved his wisdom by successfully completing the king's challenge. He used his cleverness to bring the fish without anyone noticing, impressing the king.

Question 5:
Why was the king surprised when Gopal arrived at the palace?
Answer:

The king was surprised because Gopal had managed to bring the Hilsa fish without anyone mentioning it. His clever plan worked perfectly.

Question 6:
What was the reaction of the courtiers when they saw Gopal?
Answer:

The courtiers were shocked and amused by Gopal's strange appearance. They laughed and talked about his looks instead of the fish.

Question 7:
Why did the king announce a reward for catching the Hilsa fish?
Answer:

The king announced a reward to encourage people to catch the Hilsa fish because it was the season for it, and he wanted to enjoy the delicacy. The reward motivated fishermen to bring the best catch.

Question 8:
How did Gopal ensure that people focused on his appearance and not the fish?
Answer:

Gopal dressed in torn clothes, smeared ash, and acted oddly. His outrageous appearance made people talk about him, ignoring the fish he carried.

Question 9:
Why did Gopal choose such a strange disguise?
Answer:

Gopal chose the disguise to create a distraction. He knew people would focus on his looks rather than the fish, helping him complete the challenge.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
Why did the king challenge Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish without anyone talking about it?
Answer:

The king challenged Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish without anyone talking about it because he wanted to test Gopal's cleverness and wit. The entire kingdom was obsessed with the Hilsa fish, and the king wanted to see if Gopal could accomplish the impossible task of diverting everyone's attention from it.

Question 2:
How did Gopal disguise himself before going to the king's court with the Hilsa fish?
Answer:

Gopal disguised himself by shaving half his beard, smearing ash on his face, and wearing torn clothes. He also carried a broken wooden staff and acted like a madman to ensure no one would recognize him or talk about the Hilsa fish he was carrying.

Question 3:
What lesson does the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish teach us?
Answer:

The story teaches us that intelligence and creativity can help solve even the most difficult problems. Gopal's clever thinking and unique approach allowed him to complete the king's challenge successfully, showing that wit is more powerful than brute force.

Question 4:
Why did the courtiers and the king fail to recognize Gopal when he arrived in disguise?
Answer:

The courtiers and the king failed to recognize Gopal because of his extreme and unusual disguise. His half-shaven beard, ash-smeared face, torn clothes, and mad behavior made him look completely different from his usual self, diverting attention from the Hilsa fish he carried.

Question 5:
How did Gopal ensure that no one talked about the Hilsa fish when he brought it to the king?
Answer:

Gopal ensured no one talked about the Hilsa fish by making his appearance so bizarre that everyone focused on his strange behavior instead. His disguise and antics distracted the people, making them forget about the fish entirely.

Question 6:
What was the reaction of the king when Gopal revealed his true identity after completing the challenge?
Answer:

The king was amazed and impressed by Gopal's cleverness. He laughed heartily and praised Gopal for his intelligence and creativity in successfully completing the challenge without anyone mentioning the Hilsa fish.

Question 7:
Why did the king challenge Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish to the palace without anyone talking about it?
Answer:

The king challenged Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish to the palace without anyone talking about it because he wanted to test Gopal's wisdom and cleverness. The king was annoyed that everyone in the kingdom was only discussing the Hilsa fish and ignoring other important matters. He believed Gopal could find a way to shift people's attention.

Question 8:
How did Gopal disguise himself before going to the palace with the Hilsa fish?
Answer:

Gopal disguised himself by:
1. Smearing his face with ash and wearing ragged clothes.
2. Tying his hair in a bun and looking like a madman.
3. Carrying the Hilsa fish openly but acting strangely so people would focus on his appearance rather than the fish.

Question 9:
Describe the reaction of the courtiers when Gopal entered the palace with the Hilsa fish.
Answer:

The courtiers were shocked and confused when Gopal entered the palace. They did not recognize him because of his disguise and were more focused on his strange appearance than the Hilsa fish. Some laughed, while others ignored him, fulfilling the king's challenge of not letting the fish become the topic of discussion.

Question 10:
Why did the king reward Gopal after the incident with the Hilsa fish?
Answer:

The king rewarded Gopal because he successfully completed the challenge. Gopal proved his cleverness by bringing the fish to the palace without anyone talking about it. The king appreciated Gopal's ability to think differently and solve problems in a unique way.

Question 11:
How does the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish showcase the importance of humor and wit?
Answer:

The story showcases humor and wit through Gopal's actions. Instead of arguing or forcing people to stop talking about the fish, he used a funny disguise to distract them. This shows that humor and cleverness can be powerful tools to handle tricky situations without conflict.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
How does Gopal prove his wisdom in the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish?
Answer:
Introduction

In the story, Gopal is a clever man who uses his intelligence to solve a problem. Our textbook shows how he outsmarts others with his wit.


Argument 1
  • Gopal distracts everyone by dressing oddly, making them forget about the Hilsa fish.
  • He uses humor and creativity to shift focus, proving his cleverness.

Argument 2
  • He carries the fish openly but makes people notice his clothes instead.
  • This shows his ability to think differently.

Conclusion

Gopal’s wisdom lies in his unconventional approach, teaching us that intelligence can solve any challenge.

Question 2:
Why was the king annoyed with his courtiers in Gopal and the Hilsa Fish?
Answer:
Introduction

The king in the story is frustrated because his courtiers keep talking about the Hilsa fish. Our textbook highlights how this irritates him.


Argument 1
  • The courtiers ignore important matters and only discuss the fish.
  • This shows their lack of focus on royal duties.

Argument 2
  • The king feels disrespected as no one listens to him.
  • Their obsession with the fish disrupts court proceedings.

Conclusion

The king’s annoyance teaches us the importance of staying focused on priorities.

Question 3:
Describe how Gopal’s appearance plays a key role in the story.
Answer:
Introduction

Gopal’s strange appearance is central to the story. Our textbook shows how it helps him achieve his goal.


Argument 1
  • He wears torn clothes and smears ash on his face to look funny.
  • This makes people curious and distracts them from the fish.

Argument 2
  • His unusual look ensures no one notices the Hilsa fish he carries.
  • It proves that appearances can be used strategically.

Conclusion

Gopal’s appearance teaches us that creativity can solve problems in unexpected ways.

Question 4:
What lesson does the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish teach about intelligence?
Answer:
Introduction

The story teaches that intelligence is more valuable than brute force. Our textbook shows Gopal using wit to succeed.


Argument 1
  • Gopal doesn’t argue but cleverly diverts attention.
  • He proves that smart thinking wins over loud arguments.

Argument 2
  • His plan to carry the fish silently shows patience and strategy.
  • This contrasts with the courtiers’ noisy discussions.

Conclusion

The story highlights that intelligence and creativity are powerful tools.

Question 5:
How does the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish highlight the theme of distraction?
Answer:
Introduction

The story uses distraction as a key theme. Our textbook shows how Gopal uses it to his advantage.


Argument 1
  • Gopal’s funny clothes distract everyone from the fish.
  • This shows how easily people can be misled.

Argument 2
  • The courtiers forget their duties due to their obsession with the fish.
  • This highlights the dangers of losing focus.

Conclusion

The story teaches us to stay focused and not get distracted by trivial things.

Question 6:
How did Gopal prove his wisdom in the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish?
Answer:
Introduction

In the story, Gopal proves his wisdom by outsmarting the king and his courtiers. Our textbook shows how he uses cleverness to achieve his goal.


Argument 1
  • Gopal dressed as a poor man to distract everyone from the Hilsa fish.
  • He acted foolishly to make people focus on his appearance.

Argument 2
  • He carried the fish openly but made it seem unimportant.
  • His strategy worked as the king forgot about the challenge.

Conclusion

Gopal’s cleverness and humor helped him succeed, proving that wisdom is more powerful than strength.

Question 7:
Why did the king challenge Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish without anyone talking about it?
Answer:
Introduction

The king challenged Gopal because everyone in the kingdom was obsessed with the Hilsa fish. Our textbook explains how the king wanted to test Gopal’s intelligence.


Argument 1
  • The king was annoyed that people only talked about the fish.
  • He wanted to see if Gopal could break this trend.

Argument 2
  • Gopal was known for his wit, so the king trusted him.
  • The challenge was meant to prove Gopal’s cleverness.

Conclusion

The king’s challenge showed his faith in Gopal’s ability to solve problems creatively.

Question 8:
Describe how Gopal’s appearance helped him complete the king’s challenge.
Answer:
Introduction

Gopal’s unusual appearance played a key role in completing the challenge. Our textbook highlights how his disguise distracted everyone.


Argument 1
  • He wore torn clothes and smeared ash on his face.
  • People laughed at him, forgetting about the fish.

Argument 2
  • His funny behavior drew attention away from the Hilsa.
  • Even the king was amused and forgot the challenge.

Conclusion

Gopal’s clever disguise and acting skills helped him succeed in the task.

Question 9:
What lesson does the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish teach us about intelligence?
Answer:
Introduction

The story teaches that intelligence and wit are more valuable than brute strength. Our textbook shows Gopal using his mind to solve problems.


Argument 1
  • Gopal didn’t force people to stop talking about the fish.
  • He used humor and strategy to divert their attention.

Argument 2
  • His plan worked without conflict or anger.
  • This shows that cleverness can achieve difficult tasks.

Conclusion

The story encourages us to think creatively and use intelligence in challenges.

Question 10:
How did the king and courtiers react when Gopal arrived with the Hilsa fish?
Answer:
Introduction

When Gopal arrived, the king and courtiers were shocked and amused. Our textbook describes their reactions vividly.


Argument 1
  • They laughed at his messy appearance and strange behavior.
  • No one noticed the fish he was carrying.

Argument 2
  • The king was so entertained that he forgot his own challenge.
  • This proved Gopal’s plan was successful.

Conclusion

The reactions show how Gopal’s cleverness outshone the king’s expectations.

Question 11:
Describe the character of Gopal from the chapter Gopal and the Hilsa Fish. How did his cleverness help him achieve his goal?
Answer:

Gopal was a witty and clever man who used his intelligence to solve problems. In the story, he was challenged to bring a Hilsa fish to the king's court without anyone talking about it. Gopal dressed in ridiculous clothes and behaved oddly, diverting everyone's attention from the fish. His cleverness lay in making himself the center of attention instead of the fish.

He succeeded because people were so busy discussing his strange appearance that they forgot to mention the fish. This shows his ability to think creatively and outsmart others. His character teaches us that intelligence and humor can overcome even the toughest challenges.

Question 12:
Explain the significance of the Hilsa fish in the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish. How did it become the central topic of discussion in the kingdom?
Answer:

The Hilsa fish was significant because it was the season when everyone in the kingdom, including the king, was obsessed with catching and talking about it. The fish became so popular that people forgot about their daily duties and only discussed Hilsa.

This obsession annoyed the king, who then challenged Gopal to stop this trend. The fish became a symbol of how easily people get distracted by trivial things. The story highlights how Gopal used his cleverness to shift the focus from the fish to himself, proving that intelligence can change perceptions.

Question 13:
How did Gopal prepare himself before going to the king's court with the Hilsa fish? What was the reaction of the people he met on the way?
Answer:

Gopal prepared by dressing in torn clothes, smearing ash on his face, and carrying the Hilsa fish openly. He acted strangely by half-shaven beard and odd behavior to ensure people noticed him instead of the fish.

On his way to the court, people were shocked and amused by his appearance. They laughed, pointed, and talked about how ridiculous he looked, completely ignoring the fish. This reaction proved his plan was working, as no one mentioned the Hilsa fish. His strategy shows how appearances can distract people from the obvious.

Question 14:
What lesson does the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish teach us? Explain with examples from the text.
Answer:

The story teaches us that clever thinking and humor can solve difficult problems. Gopal was given a tough task, but instead of arguing, he used his wit to divert attention.

  • Example 1: He dressed oddly to make people focus on him, not the fish.
  • Example 2: His strange behavior made everyone forget about the Hilsa fish, proving how distractions work.

The story also warns against getting too obsessed with trivial things, as seen in how the kingdom ignored important matters for the fish. It encourages creative problem-solving over brute force.

Question 15:
Describe the character of Gopal from the chapter Gopal and the Hilsa Fish. How did his cleverness help him achieve his goal? Support your answer with examples from the story.
Answer:

Gopal is portrayed as a witty and clever character in the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish. His intelligence and quick thinking help him outsmart the king and his courtiers. For example, when the king challenges anyone to bring a Hilsa fish to the court without anyone talking about it, Gopal accepts the challenge. He cleverly disguises himself as a poor fisherman and carries the fish in such a way that no one notices it. His unusual appearance and behavior distract everyone, making them talk about his antics instead of the fish. This shows how Gopal uses his cleverness to divert attention and successfully complete the task.

Additionally, Gopal's confidence and sense of humor make him stand out. He doesn’t fear the king’s challenge and instead turns it into an opportunity to showcase his wit. His ability to think on his feet and use his surroundings to his advantage highlights his sharp mind. Thus, Gopal’s cleverness not only helps him achieve his goal but also teaches us the value of intelligence and creativity in solving problems.

Question 16:
Explain the significance of the Hilsa fish in the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish. How does it drive the plot forward?
Answer:

The Hilsa fish plays a crucial role in the story as it serves as the central challenge that tests Gopal's wit and cleverness. The fish symbolizes an ordinary object that becomes significant due to the king's unusual demand.

The plot revolves around the king's challenge—no one should talk about the Hilsa fish when Gopal brings it to the palace. This seems impossible because the fish was the main topic of discussion in the kingdom. However, Gopal uses his intelligence to divert attention from the fish by dressing absurdly.

Key points:

  • The fish acts as a tool to showcase Gopal's cleverness.
  • It creates humor and suspense as people ignore the fish and focus on Gopal's strange appearance.
Thus, the Hilsa fish drives the story forward by setting up the challenge and highlighting Gopal's problem-solving skills.

Question 17:
Describe the character of Gopal in the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish. How does his cleverness help him achieve his goal? Provide examples from the text to support your answer.
Answer:

The character of Gopal in the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish is portrayed as a clever and witty man who uses his intelligence to solve problems. He is confident and humorous, which makes him stand out in the king's court.

His cleverness is evident when he accepts the challenge to bring the Hilsa fish to the king without anyone talking about it. Instead of hiding the fish, he dresses in ridiculous clothes and behaves oddly, ensuring that people focus on his appearance rather than the fish. This strategy works perfectly, as everyone talks about his strange behavior and forgets about the fish.

For example, when Gopal walks through the town, people are so distracted by his half-shaven face and torn clothes that they do not notice the fish he is carrying. Even the king and his courtiers are amused by his antics, proving that his plan was successful. This shows how Gopal's cleverness and quick thinking help him achieve his goal effortlessly.

Question 18:
Explain the central theme of the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish. How does the author use humor to convey this message?
Answer:

The central theme of Gopal and the Hilsa Fish is the power of wit and intelligence over brute strength or direct confrontation. The story highlights how clever thinking can solve seemingly impossible challenges.

The author uses humor effectively to convey this message. Gopal's exaggerated actions, such as dressing in torn clothes, smearing ash on his body, and behaving oddly, create a comical situation. The reactions of the townspeople and the king's court add to the humor, as they are too distracted by his appearance to notice the fish.

For instance, when Gopal enters the court, the king himself laughs at his ridiculous look, forgetting about the challenge. This humorous twist emphasizes that intelligence and creativity can outsmart even the most difficult situations. The light-hearted tone of the story makes the theme more engaging and memorable for readers.

Question 19:
Describe the character of Gopal from the chapter Gopal and the Hilsa Fish and explain how his cleverness helped him achieve his goal. Support your answer with examples from the story.
Answer:

The character of Gopal in Gopal and the Hilsa Fish is portrayed as a clever and witty person who uses his intelligence to solve problems. He is confident and humorous, which makes him stand out in the king's court.

Gopal's cleverness is evident when he accepts the challenge to bring the Hilsa fish to the king without anyone talking about it. Instead of hiding the fish, he dresses in ridiculous clothes—half-shaven face, ash-smeared body, and torn clothes—to distract people. His unusual appearance makes everyone talk about him rather than the fish, proving his cleverness.

For example:

  • He deliberately acts foolishly to shift attention from the fish to himself.
  • He uses reverse psychology, knowing people would notice his attire more than the fish.
This shows how Gopal's intelligence and creativity helped him succeed in the challenge set by the king.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
In Gopal and the Hilsa Fish, why did the king challenge Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish? Analyze Gopal's clever strategy to succeed.
Answer:
Case Summary

We studied that the king challenged Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish to test his wit. The fish was seasonal, and everyone was talking about it.

Analysis
  • Gopal dressed oddly to distract people from the fish.
  • He made them focus on his appearance instead.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how clever plans, like Gopal's, can solve tough problems. His strategy proves intelligence beats brute force.

Question 2:
How did Gopal ensure no one noticed the Hilsa fish he was carrying? Explain the role of distraction in his plan.
Answer:
Case Summary

Gopal carried the Hilsa fish openly but used a distraction to hide it.

Analysis
  • He wore torn clothes, smeared ash, and acted crazily.
  • People laughed at his antics, ignoring the fish.
Conclusion

We learned that distractions, like Gopal's disguise, shift attention. Our textbook highlights how creativity helps in tricky situations.

Question 3:
Compare the reactions of the courtiers and the king when Gopal arrived with the Hilsa fish. What does this reveal about their characters?
Answer:
Case Summary

Gopal entered the court looking ridiculous, holding the Hilsa fish.

Analysis
  • Courtiers mocked Gopal, focusing on his looks.
  • The king, however, praised his cleverness.
Conclusion

We studied that the king valued intelligence, while courtiers judged appearances. Our textbook shows wisdom matters more than looks.

Question 4:
Why is Gopal and the Hilsa Fish considered a humorous story? Give two examples of comic elements from the lesson.
Answer:
Case Summary

The story is funny because of Gopal's silly actions and people's reactions.

Analysis
  • Gopal dressed as a madman, confusing everyone.
  • People gossiped about his looks, not the fish.
Conclusion

We learned humor comes from unexpected behavior. Our textbook uses such examples to teach lessons entertainingly.

Question 5:
In Gopal and the Hilsa Fish, why did the king challenge Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish? Analyze how Gopal's cleverness helped him succeed.
Answer:
Case Summary

We studied that the king challenged Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish to test his wisdom. The courtiers doubted him, but Gopal accepted the challenge.

Analysis
  • Gopal disguised himself as a poor man to avoid attention.
  • He carried the fish openly, making people focus on his odd appearance instead.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows his cleverness in diverting attention, proving intelligence matters more than strength.

Question 6:
How did Gopal's behavior confuse the people in the kingdom? Explain with two examples from the story.
Answer:
Case Summary

Gopal acted strangely to complete the king's challenge. His actions puzzled everyone in the kingdom.

Analysis
  • He wore torn clothes and smeared ash, looking unlike a courtier.
  • He danced and sang while carrying the Hilsa fish, drawing curiosity.
Conclusion

We learned that his unusual behavior distracted people from the fish, showcasing his smart strategy.

Question 7:
Compare the reactions of the king and the courtiers when Gopal brought the Hilsa fish. What does this reveal about their characters?
Answer:
Case Summary

Gopal surprised everyone by fulfilling the challenge. The king and courtiers reacted differently.

Analysis
  • The king laughed and praised Gopal's wit.
  • The courtiers were shocked and realized their mistake in doubting him.
Conclusion

Our textbook highlights the king's wisdom and the courtiers' narrow-mindedness, teaching us to value cleverness.

Question 8:
Why is the story titled Gopal and the Hilsa Fish? Discuss how the fish symbolizes the central theme of the lesson.
Answer:
Case Summary

The story revolves around Gopal's task to bring the Hilsa fish, which seems impossible.

Analysis
  • The fish represents a difficult challenge.
  • Gopal's success shows that problems can be solved with creativity.
Conclusion

We studied that the title reflects the lesson's theme: intelligence triumphs over obstacles, just like Gopal did.

Question 9:
How did Gopal ensure nobody noticed the Hilsa fish he carried? Explain the role of disguise in the story.
Answer:
Case Summary

Gopal carried the Hilsa fish openly, but no one noticed it because of his disguise.

Analysis
  • He wore torn clothes, smeared ash, and acted crazily.
  • People focused on his appearance, not the fish.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how disguises can divert attention, just like Gopal tricked the crowd with his funny look.

Question 10:
Compare the reactions of the king and the courtiers when Gopal arrived with the Hilsa fish. What does this reveal about their characters?
Answer:
Case Summary

When Gopal arrived, the courtiers mocked his appearance, but the king appreciated his cleverness.

Analysis
  • Courtiers judged by looks, showing narrow-mindedness.
  • The king valued intelligence, proving he was wise.
Conclusion

Our textbook highlights how the king’s fairness contrasts with the courtiers’ superficiality, teaching us to value inner qualities.

Question 11:
Why is the story titled Gopal and the Hilsa Fish? Discuss how the Hilsa fish symbolizes the central conflict.
Answer:
Case Summary

The Hilsa fish caused a noisy debate, and Gopal’s task was to silence it.

Analysis
  • The fish represents a distracting problem.
  • Gopal’s solution shows how to tackle challenges smartly.
Conclusion

Our textbook uses the fish as a symbol, teaching us to focus on solutions, not just problems.

Question 12:

Read the following passage from Gopal and the Hilsa Fish:

'Gopal was determined to prove his cleverness to the king. He dressed in rags, smeared ash on his face, and carried a hilsa fish to the palace.'

Based on this, answer:

Why did Gopal disguise himself in such a peculiar manner? What does this reveal about his character?

Answer:

Gopal disguised himself in rags and smeared ash on his face to appear like a foolish beggar so that no one would suspect his true intentions. His goal was to prove that even during the hilsa fish season, people could talk about something other than the fish.

This reveals key traits of Gopal's character:

  • Cleverness: He used his wit to outsmart the courtiers and the king.
  • Determination: He was focused on achieving his goal despite obstacles.
  • Creativity: His unusual disguise showed his ability to think outside the box.

His actions highlight how intelligence and humor can solve problems effectively.

Question 13:

In the chapter Gopal and the Hilsa Fish, the king challenges his courtiers by saying, 'No one can stop talking about the hilsa fish!'

How did Gopal turn this challenge into an opportunity to showcase his wisdom? Explain with reference to the story.

Answer:

Gopal accepted the king's challenge and used his cleverness to shift the focus from the hilsa fish to his own bizarre appearance. Here's how he succeeded:

  • Distraction: By dressing oddly and behaving strangely, he made everyone curious about him instead of the fish.
  • Reverse Psychology: He carried the hilsa fish openly, but his actions made people ignore it.
  • Proving the Point: When the king asked why no one mentioned the fish, Gopal revealed his disguise, proving that it was possible to talk about other things.

This shows Gopal's ability to turn challenges into victories using humor and intelligence, teaching us that creative solutions often work best.

Question 14:

Read the following passage from Gopal and the Hilsa Fish:

'The king was tired of hearing about the Hilsa fish. He announced a challenge: whoever could bring him a Hilsa fish without anyone talking about it would be rewarded.'

Based on this, answer:

Why did Gopal disguise himself before bringing the Hilsa fish to the king? Explain how his plan worked.

Answer:

Gopal disguised himself to distract people from talking about the Hilsa fish. He wore torn clothes, smeared ash on his face, and acted strangely to draw attention to his appearance instead of the fish.

His plan worked because:

  • People were so amused by his odd behavior that they forgot to mention the fish.
  • He successfully shifted the focus from the Hilsa fish to himself.
  • The king was impressed by his cleverness in fulfilling the challenge.

This shows Gopal's intelligence and creativity in solving problems unconventionally.

Question 15:

In the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish, the king's courtiers initially doubted Gopal's ability to complete the challenge.

How did Gopal prove them wrong? What lesson does this teach us about judging others?

Answer:

Gopal proved the courtiers wrong by successfully bringing the Hilsa fish without anyone mentioning it. He used his wit and unconventional methods to achieve what seemed impossible.

This teaches us:

  • Not to underestimate others based on appearances or assumptions.
  • Creativity and cleverness can overcome seemingly difficult challenges.
  • Judging people hastily can lead to misunderstanding their true potential.

The story highlights the importance of open-mindedness and giving everyone a fair chance.

Question 16:

Read the following passage from Gopal and the Hilsa Fish:

'The king was amazed at Gopal's cleverness. He rewarded Gopal generously for bringing the Hilsa fish without anyone talking about it.'

Based on this, answer:

Why do you think the king was so impressed with Gopal's action? Explain how Gopal's approach was different from others.

Answer:

The king was impressed because Gopal successfully completed the challenge of bringing the Hilsa fish without anyone discussing it, which seemed impossible.

Gopal's approach was different because:

  • He used creativity by dressing oddly to distract people from the fish.
  • He focused on problem-solving rather than brute force.
  • He understood human psychology, knowing people would talk about his appearance instead.

This shows Gopal's intelligence and ability to think outside the box, unlike others who might have failed by trying conventional methods.

Question 17:

In the story Gopal and the Hilsa Fish, Gopal is described as a clever and witty character. Imagine you are Gopal and the king gives you a new challenge: 'Bring me a talking parrot without anyone noticing it.'

How would you solve this problem using Gopal's style of thinking? Explain your plan step-by-step.

Answer:

To solve this challenge like Gopal, I would:


Step 1: Create a distraction – Wear a brightly colored, oversized hat or carry a noisy toy to draw attention away from the parrot.


Step 2: Train the parrot to stay silent temporarily by covering its cage with a cloth or giving it a treat to keep it quiet.


Step 3: Walk confidently but unusually (like hopping or singing) so people focus on my behavior, not the cage.


Step 4: If someone asks about the cage, I’d say it contains a 'magical silent bird' that only speaks for the king, making them curious but not suspicious.


This plan uses misirection and cleverness, just like Gopal did with the Hilsa fish!

Question 18:
Read the following passage and answer the question below:

Gopal was known for his wit and intelligence. One day, the king challenged him to bring a Hilsa fish to the palace without anyone talking about it. Gopal accepted the challenge and devised a clever plan.

How did Gopal ensure that no one talked about the Hilsa fish? Explain his plan in detail.
Answer:

Gopal used his intelligence to divert everyone's attention away from the Hilsa fish. He dressed in ridiculous clothes, smeared ash on his face, and acted like a madman. People were so busy laughing at his strange appearance and behavior that they completely forgot to mention the fish he was carrying. This clever trick ensured that no one talked about the Hilsa fish as they were distracted by his antics.

Additionally, Gopal's plan highlights the importance of creativity and quick thinking in solving problems. His ability to turn the situation in his favor showcases his wit and cleverness, which are key themes in the story.

Question 19:
Based on the chapter Gopal and the Hilsa Fish, answer the following:

Why do you think the king challenged Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish without anyone talking about it? What does this tell us about the king's character?
Answer:

The king challenged Gopal to bring the Hilsa fish without anyone talking about it because he wanted to test Gopal's intelligence and cleverness. The king knew that Gopal was witty and wanted to see if he could outsmart everyone in the kingdom.

This tells us that the king was:

  • Playful: He enjoyed setting fun challenges for his courtiers.
  • Observant: He recognized Gopal's unique abilities.
  • Wise: He used challenges to encourage creativity and problem-solving among his subjects.

The king's character reflects a balance of humor and wisdom, making him a fair and engaging ruler.

Question 20:
Read the following passage from Gopal and the Hilsa Fish:

'Gopal was determined to prove his wit to the king. He dressed in rags, smeared ash on his face, and carried a hilsa fish to the court.'

Based on this, answer: Why did Gopal choose such an unusual appearance to meet the king? How does this reflect his character?
Answer:

Gopal chose an unusual appearance to meet the king because he wanted to test whether people would still focus on the Hilsa fish despite his ridiculous look. This reflects his cleverness and humor.

  • He knew the king and courtiers were obsessed with the fish, so he used his appearance to divert their attention.
  • This shows his intelligence and ability to think creatively to prove a point.

His actions also highlight his confidence and willingness to go to great lengths to challenge societal norms.

Question 21:
In Gopal and the Hilsa Fish, the king initially doubts Gopal's ability to complete the challenge. Later, Gopal succeeds. Analyze how this event teaches the lesson of not judging by appearances.
Answer:

The story teaches that appearances can be deceptive. Though Gopal looked like a madman, he was actually the wisest person in the room.

  • The king judged Gopal based on his ragged clothes and ash-smeared face, assuming he couldn’t complete the task.
  • However, Gopal’s success proved that true capability lies in one’s mind, not outward looks.

This lesson is important because it encourages us to look beyond superficial traits and value people for their actions and ideas.

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