Class 11 English (Elective) Chapter 2 – A Pair of Mustachios Important Question Answers from Woven Words Book
Class 11 English (Elective) A Pair of Mustachios Important Question Answers – Looking for questions and answers for CBSE Class 11 English (Elective) Short Stories Chapter 2 – A Pair of Mustachios? Look no further! Our comprehensive compilation of important questions will help you brush up on your subject knowledge. Practising Class 11 English question answers can significantly improve your performance in the exam. Improve your chances of scoring high marks by exploring Chapter 2 – A Pair of Mustachios now. The questions listed below are based on the latest CBSE exam pattern, wherein we have given NCERT solutions to the chapter’s extract-based questions, multiple choice questions and Extra Question Answers
Also, practising with different kinds of questions can help students learn new ways to solve problems that they may not have seen before. This can ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of the subject matter and better performance on exams.
- A Pair of Mustachios NCERT Solutions
- A Pair of Mustachios Grammar Exercises
- A Pair of Mustachios Extract Based Questions
- A Pair of Mustachios Multiple Choice Questions
- A Pair of Mustachios Extra Question Answers
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A Pair of Mustachios Textbook Questions (NCERT Solutions)
UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT
1. What do you understand of the natures of Ramanand and Azam Khan from the episode described?
Ans. Ramanand, who is a money lender and a grocer, is cunning and has a servile nature which is apt for his money-lending and grocery-selling business. He does not get angry but prevails over some customers like Azam Khan with his intelligence and by hurting their pride. Here it is obvious that Ramanand considers his customers as correct in principle. He gives his business the first priority, and his pride is secondary.
Azam Khan is a victim of pride. He is lost in the glory of his ancestors. He is short-sighted, arrogant and full of anger. He is prepared to sell all his property in order to keep Ramanand’s moustaches down, as is suitable for his class. Azam Khan is living in the past. He is short-tempered, impractical and does not know what is good for him.
2. Identify instances in the story that show the business acumen of Ramanand.
Ans. Ramanand, the moneylender, shows his business acumen in several ways throughout the story. First, he cleverly uses his position as a moneylender to gain an advantage over Azam Khan. When Khan Azam Khan comes to him to pawn his wife’s gold nose-ring, Ramanand offers a low value for it, showing his skill in getting the best deal for himself. Despite Azam Khan’s pride, Ramanand remains calm and negotiates in a way that benefits him. He is also quick to recognize the importance of his moustache in his business dealings. When Khan demands that he change his moustache, Ramanand uses it as an opportunity to further negotiate, asking Khan to give up more valuables in exchange for the moustache adjustment.
Ramanand is also patient and strategic. Even when Khan Azam Khan threatens to kill him over the moustache issue, he doesn’t react rashly. Instead, he plays along with Khan’s demands, using the situation to his advantage. He proposes a deal to Khan where, in exchange for Khan’s household goods, he will keep his moustache in the goat style, a clever way of turning the situation into a profitable one for himself. Throughout the story, Ramanand’s ability to manipulate situations for his gain reflects his sharp business sense.
3. Both Ramanand and Azam Khan seem to have very fixed views. How does Ramanand score over Azam Khan towards the end of the story?
Ans. Ramanand scores over Azam Khan in the story due to his calm, practical approach and sharp business skills. While Azam Khan is driven by pride and a strong attachment to his noble moustache, Ramanand remains composed and uses the situation to his advantage. Instead of reacting impulsively to Khan’s demands, he agrees to change his mustache for a price, cleverly turning the issue into a business deal. He convinces Azam Khan to pawn his valuable possessions in exchange for the promise of changing his moustache, showing his business acumen. Even when Khan becomes aggressive and threatening, Ramanand stays calm and sticks to his strategic plan. In the end, although Azam Khan loses all his wealth, Ramanand fulfills the agreement, keeping his moustache in the goat style, and retains control. This demonstrates how Ramanand’s ability to negotiate, remain composed, and find practical solutions outshines Khan’s prideful and impulsive behavior.
APPRECIATION
1. Comment on the way in which the theme of the story has been introduced.
Ans. The theme of the story is introduced through the focus on the moustache, a symbol of identity, pride, and social status. The opening discussion about various styles of moustaches in society introduces the idea of rigid social structures and class distinctions. This sets the tone for the conflict between Azam Khan, who holds on to his ancestral pride and the symbols of his noble past, and Ramanand, a practical businessman who manipulates the situation to his advantage. The theme of pride, especially the conflict between personal honor and practicality, is subtly laid out through the interactions of the two characters and is made central to the narrative as the moustache becomes the focal point of their clash. The story explores the consequences of excessive pride and the way appearances can influence social relations, making it an engaging commentary on human nature and societal expectations.
2. How does the insertion of dialogue in the story contribute to its interest?
Ans. The insertion of dialogue in the story makes it dynamic and adds character depth and humor, making the narrative more engaging. The conversations between Azam Khan and Ramanand create a lively back-and-forth, highlighting their contrasting personalities. Azam Khan’s passionate outbursts and Ramanand’s calm, businesslike responses emphasize the former’s pride and the latter’s cunning. The use of dialogue also adds tension and suspense to the story, especially during the moments when Khan demands changes to Ramanand’s moustache. The witty exchanges and the escalating conflict help build the narrative’s rhythm, while the humor embedded in the dialogue lightens the otherwise serious themes of pride and social status. Through these dialogues, the reader gains insight into the characters’ motivations and the social dynamics at play, enriching the overall narrative.
A Pair of Mustachios Grammar Exercises
LANGUAGE WORK
1. Nouveau riche and bourgeoise are French words. Collect from newspapers, magazines and other sources some more French words or expressions that are commonly used in English.
Ans. French words or expressions commonly used in English:
- Cliché – An overused phrase or idea.
- Rendezvous – A meeting or gathering at a specific time and place.
- Déjà vu – The feeling that something has happened before.
- Faux pas – A social blunder or mistake.
- Encore – A demand for a repeated performance or action.
- A la carte – Ordering individual dishes from a menu instead of a set meal.
2. Locate expressions in the text which reflect the Indian idiom, for example, the pride of the generations of his ancestors.
Ans. Expressions reflecting the Indian idiom in the text:
- “The pride of the generations of his ancestors” – Reflects the Indian cultural value placed on ancestral heritage and honor.
- “Seed of a donkey” – A colloquial insult reflecting the Indian tendency to use animal metaphors in everyday speech.
- “Lentil-eating shopkeepers” – A derogatory reference to a particular community, implying a low social status in Indian society.
3. We ‘draw up a deed’. Complete the following phrases with appropriate words
a. ………….. one’s word
b. …………….. one’s will
c. …………… ends meet
d. …………….. a loan
e. …………….a deaf ear to
Ans.
a. Keep one’s word
b. Draw up one’s will
c. Make ends meet
d. Take out a loan
e. Turn a deaf ear to
CBSE Class 11 English (Elective) Chapter 2 A Pair of Mustachios Extract-Based Questions
Answer the following extract-based questions.
A
“In the West, they have a saying that clothes make the man. But in our country, it is the mustachios that make the man. So we prefer the various styles of mustachios to mark the differences between the classes. There is the tiger moustache… worn by the unbending, unchanging survivors from the ranks of the feudal gentry. Then there is the goat moustache, turned downwards, appropriate to clerks, professional men and the bourgeoisie. And there is the sheep moustache worn by the coolie, the menial, and the lower orders. Lastly, there is the Charlie Chaplin moustache of the modern young man who wants to be equal to anyone else in the world.”
1. What is said to ‘make the man’ in the West?
Ans. In the West, it is said that clothes make the man.
2. What defines a man’s status in the narrator’s country?
Ans. In the narrator’s country, the style of moustache reflects social class.
3. Who wears the tiger moustache?
Ans. The tiger moustache is worn by proud members of the feudal gentry.
4. Which moustache is worn by professionals and clerks?
Ans. Professionals and clerks wear the goat moustache turned downwards.
5. What does the Charlie Chaplin moustache represent?
Ans. The Charlie Chaplin moustache represents young men who want to appear modern and equal to all.
B
“‘Since when have the lentil-eating shopkeepers become noblemen?’ he asked sourly. The moneylender turned round, startled, but collected himself quickly and said with folded hands, ‘What is the matter, Khan Sahib?’ ‘Don’t “Khan Sahib” me, you oily moneylender!’ Azam Khan shouted. ‘How dare you twist the tip of your moustache upwards in the tiger style?’ ‘I am sorry,’ murmured Ramanand, taken aback by the fury of the others. ‘I am only a humble man. But it is the fashion nowadays to turn the moustache upwards.’”
1. Why does Azam Khan get angry at the moneylender?
Ans. Azam Khan got angry at the moneylender because he felt insulted by the moneylender copying the noble tiger moustache style, which Khan believed was reserved for his high-born class.
2. What does Azam Khan call the moneylender?
Ans. Azam Khan calls the moneylender a “lentil-eating shopkeeper” to insult him and highlight his lowly merchant status.
3. How does Ramanand defend his moustache style?
Ans. Ramanand defends his moustache style by saying that it is just a popular fashion nowadays and not meant to offend anyone.
4. What does the term “lentil-eating” imply in this context?
Ans. The term “lentil-eating” implies that the moneylender belongs to the lower merchant class, often associated with simple, vegetarian diets, in contrast to the lavish lifestyle of nobles.
5. What social issue is highlighted in this exchange?
Ans. This exchange highlights the rigid social hierarchy and how deeply people associate physical appearance, like moustache style, with status and pride.
C.
“‘Now will you bring that tip of your moustache down?’
‘By all means, Khan,’ said the moneylender. ‘But let us see about this necklace. How much do you want for it?’
‘Any price will do, so long as you bring the tip of your moustache down,’ answered Azam Khan.
After they had settled the business, the moneylender said: ‘Now Khan, I shall carry out your will.’ And he ceremoniously brushed the upturned tip of his moustache down.”
1. What does Azam Khan demand of Ramanand?
Ans. Azam Khan demands that Ramanand lower the tip of his moustache, which he believes should not be worn by someone of a lower class.
2. What is offered in exchange for the moustache change?
Ans. Azam Khan offers his wife’s gold nose-ring and agrees to any price, just to make Ramanand lower his moustache.
3. How does Ramanand respond to the demand?
Ans. Ramanand responds cleverly by agreeing but uses the situation to strike a business deal involving the nose-ring.
4. What is more important to Azam Khan than money?
Ans. To Azam Khan, his pride and social status, symbolized by the style of a moustache, are far more important than any amount of money.
5. What does this extract say about the characters?
Ans. This extract shows that Azam Khan is proud and obsessed with tradition, while Ramanand is smart and practical, using every opportunity to his advantage.
D.
“‘I would rather lose all my remaining worldly possessions, my pots and pans, my clothes, even my house, than see the tip of your moustache turned up like that!’ spluttered Azam Khan.
‘Achcha, if you care so little for all your goods and chattels you sell them to me and then I shall turn that tip of my moustache down,’ said the moneylender.
‘And what is more, I shall keep it flat. Now, is that a bargain?’ …
And this document, transferring all his household goods and chattels, was signed…
The moneylender forthwith brought both tips of his moustache down and kept them glued in the goat style appropriate to his order.”
1. What is Azam Khan willing to sacrifice?
Ans. Azam Khan is willing to sacrifice all his belongings, including his house, utensils, and clothes, just to make the moneylender stop wearing the tiger moustache.
2. What does the moneylender propose in return?
Ans. The moneylender proposes that he will flatten his moustache only if Azam Khan legally sells all his remaining possessions to him.
3. What legal step is taken to confirm the deal?
Ans. A legal document is drawn up and signed in front of five village elders to confirm the transfer of Azam Khan’s possessions.
4. What moustache style does Ramanand adopt finally?
Ans. Ramanand finally adopts the goat moustache style, with both tips turned down, suitable for someone of his social class.
5. What does this conclusion reveal about the characters?
Ans. The conclusion shows that Azam Khan is ruled by outdated pride, while Ramanand cleverly uses the situation to gain wealth and still appear humble.
Class 11 A Pair of Mustachios Multiple Choice Questions
1. What was Azam Khan most proud of?
(a) His wealth
(b) His moustache
(c) His sword
(d) His family mansion
Ans: (b) His moustache
2. What did the tiger-style moustache represent for Azam Khan?
(a) Fashion
(b) Humour
(c) Royal lineage
(d) Hard work
Ans: (c) Royal lineage
3. What type of moustache was traditionally associated with the moneylender’s caste?
(a) Tiger-style
(b) Goat-style
(c) Clean-shaven
(d) Curled-style
Ans: (b) Goat-style
4. What made Azam Khan angry at Ramanand?
(a) Ramanand insulted him
(b) Ramanand refused a loan
(c) Ramanand wore a tiger-style moustache
(d) Ramanand mocked Khan’s clothes
Ans: (c) Ramanand wore a tiger-style moustache
5. What did Azam Khan initially want from Ramanand?
(a) A loan
(b) Jewellery
(c) Lowering of moustache
(d) Forgiveness
Ans: (a) A loan
6. How did Ramanand respond to Azam Khan’s demand?
(a) He lowered his moustache at once
(b) He laughed and walked away
(c) He refused and joked about it
(d) He agreed after long time
Ans: (c) He refused and joked about it
7. What does Azam Khan threaten Ramanand with?
(a) Arrest
(b) Humiliation violence
(c) Humiliation
(d) Theft
Ans: (b) Humiliation violence
8. What does Ramanand ask for in return to change his moustache style?
(a) Azam Khan’s sword
(b) Azam Khan’s property
(c) Azam Khan’s turban
(d) Nothing at all
Ans: (b) Azam Khan’s property
9. Who supports the creation of a legal agreement between Khan and Ramanand?
(a) The priest
(b) The moneylender’s friend
(c) The landlord and elders
(d) Khan’s relatives
Ans: (c) The landlord and elders
10. What role does the village petition writer play?
(a) Writes the deal
(b) Sends a letter
(c) Prepares tea
(d) Refuses to help
Ans: (a) Writes the deal
11. What punishment does the priest threaten if Ramanand breaks his word?
(a) Jail
(b) Humiliation
(c) Excommunication
(d) Fine
Ans: (c) Excommunication
12. What is the final act that seals the deal?
(a) A verbal promise
(b) A written agreement signed by elders
(c) An apology
(d) A handshake
Ans: (b) A written agreement signed by elders
13. How does Ramanand finally wear his moustache?
(a) In tiger-style
(b) Half-upturned
(c) Clean-shaven
(d) In goat-style
Ans: (d) In goat-style
14. What does Azam Khan lose in the process?
(a) Only his jewellery
(b) His honour
(c) All his possessions
(d) His moustache
Ans: (c) All his possessions
15. Despite losing everything, how does Azam Khan carry himself?
(a) Sadly and broken
(b) With pride and dignity
(c) Shouting in anger
(d) Crying
Ans: (b) With pride and dignity
16. What does Azam Khan claim at the end?
(a) That he will take revenge
(b) That his father was a Sultan
(c) That he was tricked
(d) That Ramanand lied
Ans: (b) That his father was a Sultan
17. What literary device is used in the moustache conflict?
(a) Irony
(b) Hyperbole
(c) Satire
(d) All of the above
Ans: (d) All of the above
18. What is the main theme of the story?
(a) Love and hatred
(b) Pride and ego
(c) Adventure and bravery
(d) Religion and ritual
Ans: (b) Pride and ego
19. What does the moustache symbolize in the story?
(a) Age and wisdom
(b) Cleanliness
(c) Status and identity
(d) Anger
Ans: (c) Status and identity
20. What tone does the writer mostly use in the story?
(a) Sad
(b) Serious
(c) Humorous and ironic
(d) Suspenseful
Ans: (c) Humorous and ironic
CBSE Class 11 English (Elective) Chapter 2 – A Pair of Mustachios Extra Question and Answers
Answer the following questions and answers
1. What is the significance of the tiger moustache in the story?
Ans. The tiger moustache symbolizes the pride and nobility of Khan Azam Khan’s family, representing his heritage and social status. Azam Khan holds it as a mark of distinction, and its imitation by the moneylender becomes a matter of insult. The moustache becomes a symbol of power, identity, and respect, which Khan Azam Khan refuses to see undermined, even by a minor change in style. The conflict around the moustache drives the action in the story, highlighting how pride in one’s status can lead to irrational decisions and conflicts, even when it involves something as small as a moustache.
2. How does the story use humour to depict the characters and situation?
Ans. The story uses humour to highlight the absurdity of Khan Azam Khan’s obsession with his moustache and pride. The situation itself, a fight over the style of a moustache becomes comical, as Khan Azam Khan’s seriousness contrasts with the trivial nature of the issue. The moneylender’s calm, almost sly approach to the situation also adds humour, as he remains composed and outwits the Khan at every turn. The dialogues are sharp, with the characters exchanging insults and witty retorts, which makes the situation more comical. Even though the story deals with pride and social class, its tone remains light and humorous, making it an engaging read.
3. How does the story end, and what does it reveal about Khan Azam Khan’s character?
Ans. The story ends with Khan Azam Khan losing all his wealth but still walking away with his pride intact. He accepts the moneylender’s conditions, but his actions reveal that his pride and honour are more important to him than material wealth. Despite the loss of his possessions, Khan Azam Khan refuses to let go of his identity and the legacy of his ancestors. When he walks away, he proudly tells the villagers, “My father was a Sultan,” underscoring his deep attachment to his ancestral pride. The ending reveals that, for Khan Azam Khan, pride and legacy hold more value than the material world, highlighting the complexity of his character.
4. How does the story portray the contrast between appearance and reality through its characters?
Ans. The story cleverly highlights the contrast between appearance and reality through the characters of Azam Khan and the moneylender, Ramanand. Azam Khan clings to his outward appearance of nobility and pride, especially symbolized by his tiger moustache. He believes that maintaining this image reflects his family’s honour and social standing, even though he is poor and has lost his former wealth. On the other hand, the moneylender appears humble but in reality, he is sharp, calculative, and manipulative. He uses Azam Khan’s obsession with appearances to his own advantage, ultimately gaining all of Khan’s possessions. This contrast shows that appearance alone does not determine real power or status. True control lies in understanding situations and people, which Ramanand does well. The story mocks blind pride and reminds readers not to judge people by appearances alone.
5. What role does the moustache play as a symbol throughout the story?
Ans. The moustache in the story is more than just facial hair, it is a strong symbol of pride, status, identity, and legacy. For Azam Khan, the style of his moustache represents his family’s nobility and honour. He sees it as an “insignia of his order” and is furious when the moneylender copies its upturned style. This obsession with the moustache shows how deeply Azam Khan values social status and traditional symbols of masculinity and power. On the other hand, the moneylender uses this obsession to bargain with Azam Khan, turning the symbol into a tool for negotiation and control. In the end, even though Azam Khan loses all his possessions, he continues to walk proudly with his moustache unchanged, signifying that he still clings to his pride. Thus, the moustache is central to the plot and serves as a metaphor for the characters’ values and inner conflicts.