Glimpses of
India
i. A Baker from Goa
ii. Coorg
iii. Tea From Assam
Bakery from
Goa
A Baker from
Goa: Summary
• The chapter begins with the narrator's
elders fondly recalling the time when Goa
was under the rule of the Portuguese.
They emphasize how the importance of
bakers, known as 'Paders' in Goa,
continues to thrive in their villages even
after the Portuguese have left.
A Baker from
Goa: Summary
• The mixers, moulders, and their
time-tested furnaces persist in
serving the people of Goa with their
famous bread loaves. Although the
original bakers might have passed
away, their sons have taken up the
profession, carrying on the legacy.
The resonating thud of their bamboo
sticks can still be heard in certain
parts of the village, evoking
nostalgic memories for the narrator
and his childhood friends, who used
to rush to the baker without even
properly brushing or washing their
mouths.
A Baker from Goa: Summary
• In the past, the maid-servant of
the house collected the loaves,
while the children gleefully
selected their favorite bread
bangles. Bakery products hold
great importance in the culture
and traditions of Goa. Bol or
sweet bread is a customary part
of marriage gifts, and cakes
along with Bolinhas or coconut
cookies are relished during
every festival. Moreover, on her
daughter's engagement, the
lady of the house prepares
sandwiches.
A Baker from Goa: Summary
• In the narrator's childhood days, bakers
wore a unique frock of knee-length
known as 'kabai,' but the dress has
evolved, and during that time, they
wore shirts and trousers of slightly
shorter length. The bakers usually
collected their bills at the end of each
month, and despite changing times, the
bakery profession remains profitable,
ensuring the joy and prosperity of their
families.
Coorg
• Coorg, a picturesque hill station situated in
the Western Ghats of Karnataka, lies
midway between Bangalore and Mangalore.
The best time to visit this enchanting place
is from September to March.
• Famous for its sprawling coffee plantations
and aromatic spices, Coorg boasts
Coorg: abundant rainforests covering around 30
percent of its area. The Coorgi men are
Summary renowned for their bravery, being allowed
to possess firearms without a license, owing
to their trustworthiness. The women of
Coorg are celebrated for their beauty.
Although Kodavus, the people of Coorg, are
Hindus by religion, their customs differ from
those of mainstream Hindus, and they
predominantly marry within their
community.
• Kodavus are believed to have ancestral
connections to Greek or Arabic descent, with
stories suggesting that some soldiers from
Alexander's army settled in the region. Their
ethnic dress, known as Kuppia, bears
resemblance to the Arab garment Kuffia,
further fueling the speculation about
possible Arab or Kurdish ancestry.
Coorg: • The mighty river Kaveri originates from the
Summary hills of Coorg, hosting the majestic Mahaseer
fish. Along the riverbanks, tourists can spot
a variety of animals and birds, including
kingfishers, langurs, squirrels, and
elephants. The serene atmosphere of Coorg
offers relaxation for visitors, while adventure
enthusiasts can indulge in activities such as
river rafting, canoeing, rappelling, mountain
biking, rock climbing, and trekking.
• While trekking on the nature trails, one
can encounter animals like Macaques,
Malabar squirrels, langurs, and slender
Coorg: lorises residing in the lofty trees. The
major tourist attractions in Coorg include
Summary the Brahmagiri hills, Nisargdham island,
and the Bylakuppe Tibetan settlements.
Through its diverse cultures and traditions,
Coorg provides visitors with a glimpse of
India's rich tapestry of heritage.
Tea From Assam
Tea From Assam:
Summary
• The story revolves around the fascinating history
and discovery of the infamous beverage 'tea.' It
begins with two friends, Pranjol and Rajvir, who
are on their way to Assam, Pranjol's hometown.
During their journey, a friendly tea vendor offers
them freshly made tea, and they happily accept,
joining other passengers in the compartment.
• As the train continues its journey, Pranjol
engrosses himself in a detective book, while Rajvir
decides to savor the scenic beauty passing by.
They are captivated by the soft green paddy fields
and the sprawling tea bushes that stretch as far as
the eye can see.
Tea From Assam:
Summary
• Rajvir is particularly excited about
witnessing such vast tea plantations,
whereas Pranjol, being a native of
Assam, doesn't share the same level
of excitement as he is accustomed
to the region's status as the 'Tea
country.' It's his friend's first time
visiting Assam, and Rajvir had done
extensive research about the history
of tea before their trip. He shares
that tea was first consumed in China
around 2700 B.C. and eventually
made its way to Europe in the 16th
century, where it gained popularity
for its medicinal properties.
Tea From Assam:
Summary
• During their journey, they pass a cattle bridge
and make way for a truck loaded with freshly
plucked tea leaves. This sight indicates that it's
the second sprouting season for the tea plants.
Rajvir's knowledge impresses Pranjol's father,
and he expresses his intent to learn more about
the fascinating world of tea.
• As the train chugs along, both friends are eager
to explore the intriguing world of tea and its rich
history, making their journey to Assam even
more exciting and meaningful.
Thank You
