Iswaran-the-story-teller–Class-9–English–Summary–questions-and-answers–CBSE-NCERT
Summary of “Iswaran the Storyteller” by R.K. Laxman
The story is narrated by Ganesh, a junior engineer, who tells his friend about his extraordinary cook and caretaker, Iswaran.
Iswaran was not just a cook—he was a wonderful storyteller who could make any simple incident sound exciting and dramatic. He prepared delicious meals, managed the household perfectly, and had an amazing imagination.
Iswaran loved to read Tamil thrillers and imitated their style in his own stories. His tales were full of suspense, ghosts, and supernatural events. He told them with gestures, expressions, and sudden twists, which kept listeners hooked.
One day, Iswaran told a frightening story about a ghostly elephant and a mysterious female spirit that haunted their area. Later that night, Mahendra (the engineer) actually heard strange sounds and saw a ghost-like figure, which scared him badly.
The next morning, Iswaran casually revealed that he had been joking!
The story humorously shows how imagination and storytelling can make even ordinary events magical.
It also highlights Iswaran’s creativity, humor, and devotion to his master.
R.K. Laxman’s simple and lively narration makes the story entertaining and full of wit.
Glossary
Anecdote – A short, interesting story about a real incident or person.
Concocted – Made up or invented.
Thrillers – Exciting stories full of suspense and adventure.
Astonishing – Very surprising or amazing.
Desolate – Empty and lonely.
Uncanny – Strange or mysterious, difficult to explain.
Ingenuity – Cleverness or creativity.
Conscientious – Hardworking and careful.
Apparition – A ghost or spirit.
Fascinated – Deeply interested or attracted.
Menacing – Threatening or scary.
Paranormal – Beyond scientific explanation; supernatural.
Timid – Shy or easily frightened.
Gestures – Movements of hands or body used to express ideas.
Dramatic – Full of excitement or emotion.
Servant-cum-cook – A person who works both as a servant and a cook.
Compulsive – Doing something repeatedly, often without control.
Surreal – Dreamlike or unreal.
Domesticated – Tamed and trained to live with humans.
Vivid – Clear, detailed, and lifelike.
Short Question and Answers
Q1. Who was Iswaran?
Iswaran was Mahendra’s cook, caretaker, and companion. He was hardworking, loyal, and known for his storytelling skills. He could turn even ordinary incidents into thrilling tales full of suspense and imagination.
Q2. Who was Mahendra, and what was his job?
Mahendra was a junior supervisor working for a construction firm. His job required frequent transfers to remote areas where he oversaw work on bridges, dams, and other projects.
Q3. How did Iswaran take care of Mahendra?
Iswaran cooked delicious meals, washed clothes, cleaned the house, and managed every small detail of Mahendra’s daily life. He was obedient, cheerful, and treated his master with great respect and devotion.
Q4. What was Iswaran’s special talent?
Iswaran was an expert storyteller. He could describe even the smallest incident with great drama and suspense. His stories were inspired by Tamil thrillers and were full of excitement, ghosts, and imagination.
Q5. How did Iswaran make his stories interesting?
He used voice changes, gestures, and expressions to make his stories dramatic. He paused at exciting moments to build suspense, keeping his listeners completely engaged till the end.
Q6. What kind of books did Iswaran like to read?
Iswaran loved reading Tamil thrillers and adventure stories. They influenced his way of speaking and storytelling, as he often added suspense and mystery to his real-life experiences.
Q7. How did Iswaran describe the elephant incident?
Iswaran told Mahendra about a wild elephant that had escaped and caused panic in the town. He dramatically described how he faced it bravely and knocked it down with a single stick.
Q8. What was Mahendra’s reaction to the elephant story?
Mahendra was amazed but also doubtful. He found it hard to believe that a young boy could knock down a wild elephant, though Iswaran’s confidence made the story sound convincing.
Q9. How did Iswaran manage food when they moved to new places?
Whenever they shifted to a new site, Iswaran would immediately arrange everything — build a hut, cook tasty food from limited supplies, and make the place feel like home.
Q10. What made Iswaran such an efficient caretaker?
He was disciplined, resourceful, and energetic. No matter where they went, he handled all household chores with skill and made Mahendra’s life comfortable even in isolated areas.
Q11. What supernatural story did Iswaran tell Mahendra?
He told Mahendra that the place they lived in was once a burial ground and that a ghostly woman appeared there at night, moaning and carrying a skull in her hands.
Q12. How did Mahendra react to the ghost story?
Mahendra laughed at the story and said ghosts didn’t exist. He tried to act brave and rational, though deep inside he felt slightly uneasy after hearing Iswaran’s tale.
Q13. What happened one night after hearing the ghost story?
One night, Mahendra woke up after hearing a moaning sound. He saw a ghostly figure outside his window and was terrified. The next morning, he scolded Iswaran for frightening him.
Q14. How did Iswaran respond the next morning?
Iswaran innocently admitted that he too had seen the ghost many times and seemed quite casual about it. This made Mahendra even more scared and uncomfortable in the place.
Q15. What did Mahendra finally decide to do?
Frightened by the ghost incident and unable to sleep peacefully, Mahendra decided to leave the place and asked for a transfer to another work site.
Q16. What qualities of Iswaran made him an interesting character?
Iswaran was imaginative, loyal, hardworking, and humorous. His storytelling, expressions, and quick thinking made him unique and entertaining in every situation.
Q17. Why is the story titled “Iswaran the Storyteller”?
The story focuses on Iswaran’s ability to tell stories with imagination and emotion. His storytelling forms the heart of the narrative, making the title perfectly suitable.
Q18. How does Iswaran’s storytelling reflect his personality?
His storytelling shows his creativity, confidence, and lively nature. It also reflects his love for drama and his ability to bring excitement even to dull situations.
Q19. How did Iswaran use his imagination in daily life?
He used imagination not just for stories but also in everyday work. Whether cooking food or narrating incidents, he added creativity, making life more colorful and entertaining.
Q20. How did Mahendra feel about Iswaran?
Mahendra admired Iswaran’s devotion, efficiency, and cheerful nature. He enjoyed listening to his stories, though sometimes he found them exaggerated or unbelievable.
Q21. What moral lesson does the story convey?
The story teaches that imagination can make ordinary life exciting. It also reminds us to appreciate creativity and loyalty, as shown by Iswaran’s unique personality.
Q22. How does R.K. Laxman create humor in the story?
The humor comes from Iswaran’s exaggerations and Mahendra’s mixed reactions. The ghost incident, the dramatic storytelling, and the final twist make the story both funny and suspenseful.
Q23. What was unique about Iswaran’s cooking?
He was an excellent cook who could prepare delicious meals even with limited ingredients. His creativity extended to his cooking, which always impressed Mahendra.
Q24. Why did Mahendra enjoy living with Iswaran?
Mahendra enjoyed Iswaran’s company because he was caring, talkative, and entertaining. Even in lonely, remote places, Iswaran’s stories and cheerfulness made life pleasant.
Q25. What effect did Iswaran’s stories have on Mahendra?
His stories filled Mahendra’s evenings with excitement but also fear. Though Mahendra acted brave, Iswaran’s ghost stories made him uneasy and affected his sleep.
Q26. What kind of environment did Mahendra and Iswaran live in?
They lived in isolated construction sites, surrounded by forests or rocky areas. Life there was lonely, but Iswaran’s presence and storytelling added liveliness.
Q27. Why did Iswaran talk about ghosts and spirits so often?
He enjoyed adding suspense and thrill to his stories. His love for mystery and Tamil thrillers made him include ghosts and supernatural elements in almost every tale.
Q28. How does the story show the power of imagination?
Iswaran’s imagination turns ordinary experiences into magical ones. The story shows that imagination can make even dull life interesting and creative, if viewed with enthusiasm.
Q29. What was Mahendra’s attitude toward ghosts before and after the incident?
Before the incident, he laughed at ghost stories. After seeing the ghostly figure, he became nervous and superstitious, showing how imagination can influence even practical minds.
Q30. Why is Iswaran’s storytelling compared to a movie scene?
Because his stories were full of action, suspense, and emotion. He used voice, gestures, and timing just like a filmmaker, making the listener visualize every moment vividly.
Long Question and Answers
Q1. Describe the character of Iswaran.
Iswaran was a devoted, hardworking, and imaginative cook who worked for Mahendra. Apart from doing all household chores perfectly, he was an expert storyteller. He could make any simple incident exciting by adding drama and suspense. His love for Tamil thrillers influenced his storytelling style, which was full of gestures, sudden pauses, and vivid descriptions. He was loyal and cheerful, making Mahendra’s lonely life enjoyable. Iswaran’s creativity and enthusiasm brought life to every dull moment. He was a unique combination of discipline, humor, and imagination.
Q2. Who was Mahendra, and what kind of life did he lead?
Mahendra was a junior supervisor employed in a construction firm. His work required him to supervise construction sites like bridges, dams, and factories in remote areas. He lived a simple, disciplined life, moving frequently from one place to another. Despite the loneliness of his job, Mahendra managed well because of Iswaran’s loyal companionship. He was a practical man who did not believe in superstitions or ghosts. However, his rational thinking was challenged after hearing Iswaran’s ghost story. His simple, solitary lifestyle is made interesting only because of Iswaran’s presence.
Q3. How did Iswaran make Mahendra’s life comfortable?
Iswaran was a perfect caretaker who managed everything for Mahendra. He cooked delicious food, washed clothes, cleaned the hut, and even arranged things neatly wherever they shifted. He turned each new site into a comfortable home within a day. Iswaran’s cheerful nature and storytelling made Mahendra’s evenings pleasant and lively. Even in remote, isolated areas, Iswaran’s dedication and humor kept Mahendra content. His loyalty and hard work made him more than just a servant—he was like a companion and friend who brought warmth and liveliness to Mahendra’s dull routine.
Q4. How did Iswaran entertain Mahendra in his free time?
Iswaran entertained Mahendra by narrating stories filled with suspense and action. His storytelling style was dramatic, inspired by Tamil thrillers. He would describe even small events—like finding a fallen tree—with exaggerated excitement. He used voice modulations, gestures, and facial expressions to keep Mahendra completely absorbed. Every evening, Mahendra eagerly waited to hear Iswaran’s tales. Though Mahendra sometimes doubted their truth, he enjoyed the lively way they were told. Iswaran’s ability to turn ordinary incidents into thrilling adventures made him a true entertainer.
Q5. Describe the story of the mad elephant told by Iswaran.
Iswaran told Mahendra an exciting story about a wild elephant that had escaped from the jungle and entered their town. It destroyed huts and terrified everyone. Iswaran dramatically described how, as a schoolboy, he faced the beast fearlessly when it approached his school. He said he took a stick and hit the elephant’s third toenail, making it collapse instantly. Mahendra was amazed but doubtful, wondering if such a thing was possible. Still, Iswaran’s confidence and expressive narration made the story sound believable. The tale reflected his imagination and love for drama.
Q6. What do you learn about Iswaran’s imagination from his stories?
Iswaran’s imagination was lively and colorful. He could make even the most ordinary events sound thrilling. His stories showed his creativity, love for adventure, and sharp observation. Though his tales were exaggerated, they were so detailed that they felt real. He added suspense, emotion, and action, making listeners visualize every scene. His imagination came from reading Tamil thrillers, which influenced his dramatic expressions. His storytelling shows how imagination can make life more interesting, even in the dullest surroundings.
Q7. What did Iswaran tell Mahendra about the ghost?
One evening, Iswaran told Mahendra that their living area was once a burial ground. He described a ghostly woman who appeared at night, moaning and carrying a skull. He spoke with such conviction that Mahendra was both amused and uneasy. Though Mahendra laughed at the story, it left a deep impression on his mind. The description of the ghost, combined with Iswaran’s dramatic pauses and gestures, made the story seem real. This tale later caused Mahendra to imagine the ghost himself, showing the power of Iswaran’s storytelling.
Q8. How did Mahendra react to Iswaran’s ghost story?
At first, Mahendra laughed and dismissed the story as nonsense. He prided himself on being rational and scientific, believing ghosts did not exist. However, deep inside, he was disturbed by the tale. The idea of a burial ground haunted him subconsciously. Later that night, he imagined seeing the ghostly woman outside his window, which terrified him completely. The incident showed that even logical people could be influenced by imagination and fear. Iswaran’s vivid storytelling had a strong psychological impact on Mahendra.
Q9. What happened on the night Mahendra saw the ghost?
One night, Mahendra woke up after hearing a low moaning sound. He felt nervous but looked out of the window. To his horror, he saw a ghostly woman holding a skull, exactly as Iswaran had described. He was too scared to move or scream. The next morning, he scolded Iswaran for filling his mind with such fearful thoughts. Iswaran, however, calmly said he too had seen the ghost before. This made Mahendra panic further, and he soon decided to leave that place. The event proved how imagination can shape reality.
Q10. What was Mahendra’s decision after the ghost incident?
After seeing the ghostly figure, Mahendra became deeply frightened and restless. He could not sleep or concentrate on his work. Despite his rational nature, the fear of the supernatural took over his mind. When Iswaran casually confirmed that he had seen the ghost too, Mahendra was convinced the place was haunted. Terrified, he decided to resign from that site and asked for a transfer. The incident revealed how imagination and fear can overpower logic, showing the strong influence of Iswaran’s storytelling.
Q11. What qualities made Iswaran a good storyteller?
Iswaran was a natural storyteller with expressive gestures, strong imagination, and perfect timing. He used suspense, surprise, and humor in every tale. His voice changed with emotion, and he paused dramatically at key moments to build curiosity. He could turn simple events—like finding a tree or cooking a meal—into thrilling experiences. His stories reflected not only his creativity but also his deep understanding of how to hold a listener’s attention. His style made Mahendra’s life far more interesting.
Q12. How did Iswaran’s stories affect Mahendra?
Mahendra enjoyed Iswaran’s stories because they added excitement to his lonely life. At the same time, they had a psychological effect on him. Though he laughed at ghost stories, they left him uneasy. His fear after hearing about the ghost shows how powerful imagination can be. Eventually, his mind was so influenced that he imagined the ghost himself. Iswaran’s storytelling brought both entertainment and fear, revealing how words can influence human emotions deeply.
Q13. What does the story “Iswaran the Storyteller” teach us?
The story teaches that imagination is powerful and can make life vibrant and meaningful. It also shows how stories influence our thoughts and emotions. Iswaran’s creativity makes dull surroundings enjoyable, while Mahendra’s reaction shows that fear is often born from imagination. The story highlights human psychology—how words and belief can shape perception. It also reminds us to appreciate people like Iswaran, who bring joy and liveliness through their unique talents.
Q14. How does R.K. Laxman create humor in the story?
R.K. Laxman creates humor through Iswaran’s exaggerations and Mahendra’s reactions. Iswaran narrates wild, unbelievable stories with total confidence, while Mahendra listens half in doubt, half in fear. The contrast between imagination and reason creates gentle comedy. Even the ghost incident is humorous because of how seriously Mahendra takes Iswaran’s fantasy. The story’s light tone, lively dialogue, and amusing situations make it both funny and thought-provoking.
Q15. How is the story a blend of realism and imagination?
“Iswaran the Storyteller” beautifully blends realism with imagination. The setting and characters—Mahendra and Iswaran—are realistic and ordinary. However, Iswaran’s stories add imagination and fantasy to their dull lives. The ghost incident blurs the line between real and unreal, showing how imagination can affect reality. This balance between truth and fiction makes the story engaging. It reflects how ordinary people use imagination to escape loneliness and monotony in life.
Q16. What role does the theme of superstition play in the story?
Superstition is a key theme in the story. Iswaran’s ghost tale shows how easily people can believe in the supernatural when stories are told convincingly. Mahendra, though rational, becomes superstitious after hearing Iswaran’s tale. This shows how imagination can create fear and faith in unseen forces. The story warns against blind belief and encourages logical thinking while still appreciating the beauty of imagination.
Q17. How does the story show the relationship between Mahendra and Iswaran?
The relationship between Mahendra and Iswaran is that of master and servant but also of friends. Mahendra depends on Iswaran for his daily comfort and emotional company. Iswaran, in turn, is loyal, respectful, and treats Mahendra like family. Their bond is based on mutual trust and understanding. While Mahendra enjoys Iswaran’s company, Iswaran’s stories also teach him how imagination affects emotions. Their relationship adds warmth and depth to the story.
Q18. Why is Iswaran’s story about the elephant significant?
The elephant story highlights Iswaran’s creativity and his habit of exaggeration. It shows how he mixes truth and fantasy to make an event more entertaining. The story also reveals his courage and quick wit. Though the tale seems unbelievable, the way he narrates it makes it convincing. This incident defines his character—a man with ordinary experiences but extraordinary imagination.
Q19. How did Iswaran’s storytelling help Mahendra overcome loneliness?
Living in isolated work sites, Mahendra often felt lonely and bored. Iswaran’s lively storytelling became a source of joy and comfort for him. Each evening, Mahendra would eagerly wait for Iswaran’s new tale. The stories gave him laughter, suspense, and companionship. They brought warmth to his dull surroundings. Though one ghost story frightened him, the rest helped him cope with loneliness and made his life far more enjoyable.
Q20. What does the ghost incident reveal about human psychology?
The ghost incident shows how imagination can influence human emotions and create fear. Mahendra, though rational, becomes frightened simply because of Iswaran’s vivid storytelling. This demonstrates that belief and imagination can make unreal things seem real. Our mind often creates what it fears. The story reflects how powerful the human imagination is—it can entertain, inspire, or even terrify us depending on how we use it.
Q21. How does R.K. Laxman portray the theme of imagination?
R.K. Laxman uses Iswaran’s character to show that imagination is a gift that can transform reality. Through storytelling, Iswaran turns ordinary incidents into fascinating adventures. The author celebrates creativity and humor, showing how imagination brings color to life. However, he also warns that imagination can create fear if misused, as seen in Mahendra’s ghostly experience. The story balances both the joy and danger of imagination beautifully.
Q22. Why did Mahendra initially reject Iswaran’s ghost stories?
Mahendra was educated, rational, and practical. He didn’t believe in ghosts or superstitions. When Iswaran told ghost stories, Mahendra laughed and called them nonsense. Yet, despite his disbelief, his mind was affected by the vivid descriptions. His later fear proved that emotions are stronger than logic when imagination is powerful.
Q23. How did Iswaran show discipline and efficiency in his work?
Iswaran was extremely disciplined. He would wake up early, prepare meals on time, and keep the hut spotless. Whenever they shifted locations, he quickly adjusted and made the place livable. His dedication made Mahendra’s life smooth. He balanced hard work with cheerfulness, showing that discipline and enthusiasm can make any task enjoyable.
Q24. How is the ending of the story both funny and meaningful?
The ending is funny because Mahendra, who once mocked ghost stories, becomes terrified and leaves the place. It’s meaningful because it shows the power of imagination and belief. The story ends with irony—Iswaran’s simple tale changes Mahendra’s rational mind. It leaves readers smiling yet thoughtful about how easily imagination can shape reality.
Q25. What makes “Iswaran the Storyteller” an enjoyable story?
The story is enjoyable because it mixes humor, suspense, imagination, and human emotions. Iswaran’s lively storytelling, Mahendra’s reactions, and the ghost twist make it entertaining. R.K. Laxman’s simple yet vivid narration captures the charm of ordinary life turned extraordinary through imagination. The story reminds readers of the magic of creativity and how storytelling keeps life exciting even in the dullest moments.
