Winds of Change Class 9 NCERT Solutions

Winds of Change is an informative chapter from the Class 9 English textbook Kaveri. The chapter explores the history, cultural significance, and changing role of the traditional Indian hand fan, known as the pankha.

Winds of Change Class 9 NCERT Solutions

Reflect and Respond

I. Does anyone in your family use a hand fan? What do you call it in your language? What is it made of?

Answer: Yes, sometimes during power cuts we use. It is called Pankha. It is usally made of palm leaves and bamboo.

II. Work in pairs. Study the pictures given below carefully and complete the information. Discuss your answers with your classmates and teacher.

Answer:

III. Work in pairs. Match the underlined words in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2 given on the next page. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

I visited the crafts fair yesterday. It was a wonderful experience. Each indigenous artefact was an innovative creation of industrious craftspersons with its intricate design. It invoked a sense of respect for the initiatives taken by the government to showcase them.

Answer:

Check Your Understanding

I. Work in pairs to complete the table on pankha. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

Answer:

Critical Reflection

I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.

1. Over time, pankhas became significant cultural goods distributed through trade routes. They were considered exotic and stylish. Although there was substantial commonality in their use across India, different villages and towns developed their own varieties of traditional pankhas. Each place developed pankhas with distinct materials or a variety of intricate designs, that set them apart from one another.

(i) State whether the following sentence is true or false. Pankhas were one of the most popular items of commerce.

Answer: True

(ii) Why has the word ‘traditional’ been used to describe pankhas?

Answer: The word “traditional” has been used because pankhas have been made and used for many generations and are a part of India’s cultural heritage.

(iii) Complete the following statement.
The sentence ‘They were considered exotic and stylish’ is an opinion and not a fact because __________.

Answer: The sentence “They were considered exotic and stylish” is an opinion and not a fact because different people may have different views about whether pankhas are exotic and stylish.

(iv) Infer one reason for commonality in the use of pankhas across India.

Answer: One reason for the commonality in the use of pankhas across India is that they were widely used for cooling and fanning people, deities, and kings.

(v) Select which one of the two statements is the correct assertion for the given reason.
Reason: Pankhas were made of indigenous materials, unique to the region, with elaborate designs.
A. Each kind of pankha could be distinguished from the other.
B. Pankhas were used by many people.

Answer: Each kind of pankha could be distinguished from the other.

2. With time and the advent of technology and innovative creations, the beautiful culture of pankhas runs the risk of slowly losing its presence among Indians. Once made for personal use, over time this handicraft has transformed into a commercial business and now provides some form of livelihood to India’s artisans. The slight increase in popularity and demand is significantly factored by the different versions of the pankha being crafted.

(i) Infer one negative impact of technological advancement on pankha.

Answer: One negative impact of technological advancement on pankhas is that their use has decreased, causing the traditional craft to lose popularity.

(ii) Complete the statement with an appropriate reason.
The writer refers to ‘pankhas’ not just as an object but as a ‘culture’ because _.

Answer: The writer refers to pankhas not just as an object but as a culture because they reflect the traditions, artistry, and heritage of different regions of India.

(iii) Select a line from the extract which depicts how the role of the pankha has changed over the years.

Answer: “Once made for personal use, over time this handicraft has transformed into a commercial business and now provides some form of livelihood to India’s artisans.”

(iv) List one way in which the increase in demand of pankhas might benefit artisans.

Answer: One way in which the increase in demand for pankhas might benefit artisans is that it provides them with more income and better livelihood opportunities.

(v) Select the factor that has contributed to the commercialisation of pankhas.
A. cultural preservation
B. economic demand
C. technological advancements
D. artisan initiative

Answer: B. economic demand

II Answer the following questions.

1. How does the title ‘Winds of Change’ capture the essence of the chapter?

Answer: The title ‘Winds of Change’ reflects the journey of pankhas from ancient India to modern times. It highlights the changes in their design, use, and cultural significance while emphasising the need to preserve this traditional craft in a changing world.

2. Support the following statement with any two relevant examples from the chapter.
‘The structure and design of pankhas are testimony to the cultural identity of the region.’

Answer:

• In Rajasthan, appliqué and zardozi hand fans are decorated with colorful fabric pieces and gold threadwork. It reflects the rich traditions of the state.
• In Gujarat, hand fans are decorated with mirrors, beads, and embroidery showing the handicraft and textile culture of the state.

3. The chapter mentions pankhas running the risk of slowly losing their presence among Indians. Evaluate how the balance between preserving traditional craftsmanship and incorporating innovative designs in the creation of pankhas will help in this regard.

Answer: The craftsman helps to preserve the traditional cultural heritage and unique identity of pankhas. At the same time, the modern innovative designs, materials, and decorative styles can make these pankhas more attractive to modern consumers. This balance can increase demand, keep the craft relevant, and provide artisans with better livelihood opportunities while protecting traditional skills.

4. How might initiatives such as pankha-making workshops contribute to the preservation of this traditional craft?

Answer: Pankha-making workshops can educate the people about the history, cultural importance, and techniques of making pankhas. They encourage younger generations to learn the craft, increase public awareness, and create interest in buying handmade products. This will help to preserve traditional knowledge and support artisans.

5. The writer mentions celebrating pankhas in the concluding part of the chapter. Assess how this could be beneficial to artisans and the craft.

Answer: Celebrating pankhas through exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events can increase their popularity. This will create more opportunities for artisans to showcase and sell their products. Greater appreciation of the craft can lead to higher demand, improved income for artisans, and the preservation of this valuable cultural tradition.

6. How does the restriction of the use of pankha for decorative purposes reflect the changing cultural role of these traditional fans in modern India?

Answer: The use of electric fans and air conditioners has reduced the demand for traditional pankhas. As a result, the pankhas are not valued more as decorative and cultural objects. This shift reflects how modernisation has changed their role from functional items to symbols of India’s artistic heritage and craftsmanship.

Vocabulary and Structures in Context

I. Read the following pairs of words from the text.

1. Classify the pairs of words given above in the following categories. One example has been done for you.

Now, find more such word pairs from the text and share them with your classmates and teacher.

Answer:

More word pairs from the text:

• kings and deities
• beads and stones
• cultures and traditions
• shapes and sizes
• stories and artistry
• beauty and importance

II. Find the word pairs for the following fixed expressions. Write the meanings of these expressions by selecting them from the box given below. One example has been done for you.

Now, match the following meanings with the correct word pairs created above.

• (i) in a difficult situation, without help or money
• (ii) the damage to object due to normal use
• (iii) accurate and detailed information
• (iv) even when there are problems or difficulties
• (v) everyone, not just a few special people
• (vi) often; on many or all occasions
• (vii) To make a quick or sudden escape

Answer: The correct fixed expressions are

Now, match the following meanings with the correct word pairs created above.

• (i) in a difficult situation, without help or money – high and dry
• (ii) the damage to object due to normal use – wear and tear
• (iii) accurate and detailed information – facts and figures
• (iv) even when there are problems or difficulties – through thick and thin
• (v) everyone, not just a few special people – all and sundry
• (vi) often; on many or all occasions – time and again
• (vii) To make a quick or sudden escape – cut and run

III. Read the following word combinations from the text.

• sustainable livelihood
• aesthetically pleasing
• appreciating the culture

Answer:

• Sustainable livelihood – A way of earning a living that can continue for a long time without harming resources or the environment.
• Aesthetically pleasing – Attractive and beautiful to look at.
• Appreciating the culture – Understanding, respecting, and valuing the traditions and customs of a community.

1. Choose the appropriate word collocations for the following sentences.

• (i) The students have to (take/give) the English exam tomorrow.
• (ii) The interviewer asked the candidate to (take/have) a seat.
• (iii) My scooter (dashed against/ran into) a car.
• (iv) I must (take/own) responsibility for my success.
• (v) I would like to (tone up/improve) my grammar.

Answer:

• (i) The students have to take the English exam tomorrow.
• (ii) The interviewer asked the candidate to have a seat.
• (iii) My scooter ran into a car.
• (iv) I must take responsibility for my success.
• (v) I would like to improve my grammar.

IV Read the following sentences. Underline the verbs.

1. In modern times, pankhas have become traditional craft items in India.
2. Gujarat’s industrious home-based women workers have worked tirelessly in the handicraft of pankha-making.
3. Many tribes in India have adopted this handicraft.
4. Once made for personal use, this handicraft has transformed into a commercial business.

Answer:

1. In modern times, pankhas have become traditional craft items in India.
2. Gujarat’s industrious home-based women workers have worked tirelessly in the handicraft of pankha-making.
3. Many tribes in India have adopted this handicraft.
4. Once made for personal use, this handicraft has transformed into a commercial business.

Now, fill in the blanks with the present perfect form of verbs in the following paragraph. One example has been done for you.

Puppets have long fascinated (fascinate) audiences worldwide. Puppeteers (i) _ (create) intricate characters and captivating stories with their skillful They (ii) ___ (master) the delicate movements artistry. that bring these lifeless figures to life, entertaining both children and adults. Over the years, puppetry (iii) (evolve), using modern technology while preserving traditional techniques. Many puppeteers (iv) _ (pass) down their craft through generations, ensuring its continuity. They (v) (perform) in theatres, on television, and at festivals, conveying important cultural narratives.

Answer:

Puppets have long fascinated (fascinate) audiences worldwide. Puppeteers (i) have created intricate characters and captivating stories with their skillful They (ii) have mastered the delicate movements artistry. that bring these lifeless figures to life, entertaining both children and adults. Over the years, puppetry (iii) has evolved, using modern technology while preserving traditional techniques. Many puppeteers (iv) have passed down their craft through generations, ensuring its continuity. They (v) have performed in theatres, on television, and at festivals, conveying important cultural narratives.

Listen and Respond

I. You will listen to a dialogue between a boy and a girl discussing which type of pankha they should choose as a gift. As you listen, choose four statements out of seven that are true from 1–7 given below. (Transcript for teacher on page 263)

1. Rohan thinks Grandma prefers heavier items because they feel more substantial.
2. Priya suggests getting a pankha that can be easily moved around.
3. Rohan believes Grandma enjoys sitting in the verandah during the evenings.
4. Priya knows Grandma likes to keep special items close to her.
5. Rohan thinks a pankha with intricate designs would be too delicate for Grandma’s liking.
6. Priya suggests choosing between a bamboo pankha with beadwork or an embroidered pankha with mirror work.
7. Rohan decides they should buy the pankha without consulting their mom.

Answer: The four true statements are –

• Priya suggests getting a pankha that can be easily moved around.
• Rohan believes Grandma enjoys sitting in the verandah during the evenings.
• Priya knows Grandma likes to keep special items close to her.
• Priya suggests choosing between a bamboo pankha with beadwork or an embroidered pankha with mirror work.

Speaking Activity

I. Work in groups of four. Look at the pictures of the four different kinds of fans given below.

• Each of you in the group will pick one kind of fan.
• Imagine yourself to be that fan.
• Use the points given in the box below.

Answer:

1. Bamboo Fan (Hand Fan)

Hello everyone! I am a bamboo fan.

• I am made of bamboo and decorated with colourful designs. I am lightweight and eco-friendly to use. People use me to keep cool during hot weather.
• I am strong and made from the natural material. If I become wet, I can sustain damage.
• What makes me unique is that I am handmade by skilled artisans and reflect India’s rich cultural heritage.

2. Ceiling Fan

Hello everyone! I am a ceiling fan.

• I am attached to the ceiling and rotate with the help of electricity. I provide cool air to the entire room, and I am commonly found in homes, schools and offices.
• I can cool a large area and help the people to stay comfortable during hot weather. My weakness is that I do not work during a power failure.
• What makes me unique is that I can continuously circulate air throughout a room without taking rest.

3. Table Fan

Hello friends! I am a table fan.

• I am small and portable. I can be moved from one place to another easily and provide cool air directly to a person.
• I like that I am convenient and easy to use. My weakness is that I can cool only a small area.
• What makes me unique is my portability and adjustable direction, which allows users to direct the airflow where they need it.

4. Handheld Fan

Namaste! I am a handheld fan.

• I am carried by hand and used without electricity. I am made from materials such as bamboo, palm leaves, cloth or paper and often feature beautiful designs.
• I am eco-friendly and can be used anywhere. My weakness is that I require manual effort to create airflow.
• What makes me unique is my traditional craftsmanship and cultural significance. I am not just a fan but also a piece of art and heritage.

Writing Task

I. Describe an artefact you have made in your craft class or learnt from someone.

Begin with collection and organisation of the facts with the help of the pointers given above. Do not include your opinion in the factual description.

Answer:

The artefact is a paper flower. This paper flower is made from coloured paper, a stick and glue.

The first, coloured paper was cut into petal shapes. Then the petals were joined together using glue. After that, the flower was attached to a stick to make the stem.

The flower is coloured and has several petals. It is light in weight and easy to make.

The paper flower is used for decoration in classrooms, homes and exhibitions.

Disclaimer: The content that is present on our website is based on the NCERT Class 9 English textbook and is provided for educational purposes only. All the content and images have been taken from English Class 9 NCERT Textbook and CBSE Support material. Images and content shown above are the property of individual organizations and are used here for reference purposes only. To make it easy to understand, some of the content and images are generated by AI and cross-checked by the teachers.

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