Mahar (n) : a dalit community in Maharastra (Their main occupations
are wall mending, sweeping or agricultural labour.)
sundry (adj) : various; several
nonplussed : so confused that one does not know what to say or do.
hostility (n) : enmity; ill will
mumbled (v) : said indistinctly
pleasantries (n) : jocular or humorous remarks
scampered (v) : ran quickly
I. Answer the following questions.
1. Who was Bayaji? Where did he work?
2. Why did Bayaji return home?
3. "Greetings to you, sir, how are things with you?" Bayaji greeted Bhujaba. Bhujaba
became furious. Why did Bhujaba become furious? Do you think this is unusual?
Explain.
4. Why was Bayaji tempted to knock down Bhujaba with his box?
5. Why do you think Bhujaba insisted on knowing the exact amount received by Bayaji
on his retirement?