Educational Notes

a. How does the astrologer’s appearance help him attract customers? How does he help the customers satisfy their needs?

Ans: The astrologer dresses like a holy man, with a turban and a staff, which makes him appear trustworthy and knowledgeable. His confident and mysterious manner attracts curious customers. He satisfies them by skillfully telling them what they want to hear about their future, giving hope or warnings that feel personalized.

b. How do you characterize the astrologer’s attitude toward the stranger?

Ans: The astrologer is initially cautious but becomes confident and assertive when dealing with the stranger. He hides his past, showing both shrewdness and a sense of self-preservation. His attitude is a mix of calm control and underlying tension.

c. What details does the astrologer give the stranger about his past?

Ans: The astrologer reveals that he once tried to kill a man named Guru Nayak but failed. He tells the stranger he has been searching for him ever since and that he has been haunted by this past deed.

d. Why does he advise the stranger to go home immediately?

Ans: The astrologer advises the stranger to go home immediately to avoid danger and because it is the safest option. He wants to prevent the stranger from encountering harm and perhaps also to hide the truth from others.

e. What is your reaction to the conversation between the astrologer and his wife?

Ans: The conversation reveals the astrologer’s practical and somewhat secretive nature. His wife shows concern and curiosity, but he maintains control over the situation, highlighting his dual life of deception and survival. It adds depth to his character and creates a contrast between his public and private selves.

a. Suspense is the feeling of anticipation you may have as you read. In this story, what details contributed to your feelings of suspense and surprise? Explain.

Ans: The suspense builds as the astrologer’s mysterious past is slowly revealed, especially when the stranger appears and turns out to be the man he once tried to kill. The unexpected confrontation and the astrologer’s calm yet tense behavior create surprise and tension.

b. Analyze the conflicts in “An Astrologer’s Day.” Explain how the conflicts are resolved and what they reveal about the characters involved in the story.

Ans: The main conflict is internal: the astrologer’s guilt and fear of being recognized by Guru Nayak. The external conflict is between the astrologer and Guru Nayak. The resolution comes when the astrologer learns that the man is alive, which frees him from guilt. This reveals the astrologer’s cleverness and the complex nature of human morality.

c. “All right. I will speak. But will you give me a rupee if what I say is convincing? Otherwise I will not open my mouth, and you may do what you like.”

i. Who is the speaker?
Ans: The astrologer is the speaker.

ii. Who is he speaking to?
Ans: He is speaking to the stranger who approaches him.

iii. What does the expression ‘open my mouth’ mean?
Ans: It means to speak or reveal information.

d. Description helps readers visualize what is happening in a story. What details and techniques does the author use to describe the astrologer?

Ans: The author uses vivid descriptions like the astrologer’s turban, staff, and appearance as a holy man. The street setting and his mannerisms create an aura of mystery. The use of direct dialogue and internal thoughts gives insight into his personality.

e. Irony is a contrast between appearances and reality. What is ironic about Guru Nayak’s meeting with the astrologer?

Ans: The irony lies in the astrologer unknowingly meeting the very man he tried to kill, and instead of conflict, the astrologer gains relief and closure. The man is unaware of the astrologer’s identity, creating dramatic irony.

f. How does the astrologer’s manner of dress suit his character?

Ans: His traditional and holy appearance helps him gain trust and respect, masking his troubled past. It suits his role as a street astrologer who depends on appearances to attract clients and maintain authority.

a. The astrologer attracts many customers in the street who are pleased and astonished by what he tells them. What does this tell you about the people of the town walking in the street?

Ans: It shows that people are curious and hopeful about their future. They seek guidance and reassurance, often trusting astrologers to provide answers, even if based on superstition or guesswork.

b. Why do most people want to know their future? Do you think astrologers can really help them know their future?

Ans: People want to know their future to gain a sense of control and to prepare for what lies ahead. While astrologers may provide comfort, their predictions are not scientifically proven and mostly based on belief and interpretation rather than certainty.

c. Is astrology a good practice of fortune telling or is it just a blind faith? Give reasons.

Ans: Astrology is often considered a form of blind faith because it lacks scientific evidence. However, it can provide psychological comfort and help people reflect on their lives. Whether it is “good” depends on personal belief, but it should not replace rational decision-making.