The Tiger King

Critical Summary of "The Tiger King"

"The Tiger King" by Kalki is a satirical short story that critiques the arrogance and tyranny of those in power. The story revolves around the Maharaja of Pratibandapuram, a man consumed by his obsession to defy fate. The narrative is laced with irony, humor, and a subtle environmental message, making it an engaging and thought-provoking tale.

Plot Summary

The story begins with the introduction of the protagonist, His Highness Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur, famously known as the "Tiger King." At his birth, astrologers predict that his death will be caused by a tiger. The infant prince, displaying an uncanny sense of defiance, challenges this prophecy, declaring that he will eliminate all tigers. As he grows older and ascends the throne, he embarks on an obsessive quest to hunt down a hundred tigers, believing that this will nullify the prophecy.

The Maharaja's determination leads to absurd consequences. He bans tiger hunting for everyone except himself and manipulates circumstances to ensure that his mission is successful. His desperation to kill a hundred tigers becomes so extreme that he even marries a princess from a kingdom with a large tiger population to continue his hunting.

However, fate plays a cruel trick on him. After successfully killing ninety-nine tigers, he struggles to find the last one. His ministers, fearing his wrath, secretly arrange for a feeble, old tiger to be placed in his hunting path. The Maharaja shoots the tiger, believing he has completed his mission. However, the tiger does not actually die from his bullet. His men, afraid of revealing the truth, kill the animal themselves and declare the prophecy defeated.

Ironically, the Maharaja meets his end not at the hands of a real tiger, but due to a small, wooden toy tiger that he buys as a birthday gift for his son. A splinter from the toy pierces his hand, leading to a fatal infection. Thus, the prophecy is fulfilled in the most unexpected way, proving the futility of his defiance.

Critical Analysis

"The Tiger King" is a powerful satire on the arrogance of rulers and the consequences of unchecked power. Kalki masterfully employs dramatic irony, where the audience is aware of the Maharaja's impending doom even as he believes he has triumphed over fate. The story highlights the absurdity of human arrogance—how individuals, especially those in power, try to control fate but ultimately fall victim to their own actions.

The Maharaja’s obsession with hunting tigers is also a reflection of how humans exploit nature for personal gain. The depletion of tigers in his kingdom serves as a metaphor for the reckless destruction of the environment. Kalki subtly criticizes this attitude, making the story a timeless commentary on ecological concerns.

Another significant theme is the sycophancy of those in power. The Maharaja’s courtiers, ministers, and officials do not challenge his absurd actions but instead manipulate situations to keep him pleased. Their blind obedience, driven by fear, mirrors the behavior of many in political and bureaucratic systems, making the story relevant even in contemporary times.

Conclusion

"The Tiger King" is a brilliantly woven tale that uses humor and irony to expose human folly. It critiques the mindless pursuit of power, the exploitation of nature, and the sycophantic behavior surrounding rulers. Through the unexpected and ironic death of the Maharaja, Kalki reinforces the idea that fate cannot be controlled and that those who attempt to overpower nature often meet their downfall in the most ironic ways.

A lush jungle with tall trees and dense foliage. The Maharaja, dressed in royal hunting attire, is seen aiming his rifle at a fierce tiger. His face shows confidence and excitement. The tiger stands mid-roar, its sharp fangs visible, symbolizing the battle between man and beast. Sunlight filters through the canopy, adding dramatic lighting to the scene.

Here is a comprehensive list of challenging words and phrases from "The Tiger King" along with their meanings and explanations:

Challenging Words & Their Meanings

Challenging Phrases & Their Explanations

A feeble, old tiger slumps lazily in the grass, appearing harmless. The Maharaja, standing at a distance, fires his rifle with determination, believing he has completed his mission. Unbeknownst to him, the bullet has missed its target. The irony is emphasized by the oblivious expressions of the Maharaja and his men, while the tiger simply faints from shock.

Literary Devices Used in The Tiger King

1. Irony

   • Dramatic Irony: The readers know that the hundredth tiger is not actually killed by the Maharaja’s bullet, but he remains oblivious to this fact.

   • Situational Irony: The Maharaja, who kills ninety-nine powerful tigers, meets his end due to a tiny wooden toy tiger.

   • Verbal Irony: The astrologer’s prediction seems obvious ("All those who are born will one day have to die"), but it holds deeper significance regarding the Maharaja’s unique fate.

2. Satire

   • The story mocks the arrogance of rulers, their obsession with power, and their superstitions.

   • The extravagant ways of the king (such as bribing a British officer’s wife with diamond rings to protect his kingdom) highlight the absurdity of political manipulation.

3. Hyperbole (Exaggeration)

   • The Maharaja's titles, such as "Maharajadhiraja Visva Bhuvana Samrat", are exaggerated to make his character appear absurd.

   • His obsession with tiger hunting and the extreme measures he takes, such as banning tiger hunting for everyone except himself, add to the humor.

4. Foreshadowing

   • The astrologer’s prophecy about the hundredth tiger hints at the king’s eventual death, creating suspense.

   • The Maharaja’s extreme efforts to evade his fate ironically ensure its fulfillment.

5. Symbolism

   • Tigers: Represent power, fate, and the king’s obsession.

   • The Wooden Tiger: A symbol of fate’s irony, proving that no one can escape destiny.

   • Diamond Rings: Symbolize the corruption and sycophancy in royal courts.

6. Personification

   • The wooden tiger, an inanimate object, is given the power to take revenge on the Maharaja, making it seem like fate itself is acting against him.

   • The tiger is described as standing in "humble supplication," making it seem almost human.

7. Humor

   • The absurdity of the Maharaja’s extreme reactions, such as considering marriage based on tiger availability.

   • The exaggerated fear of the Dewan when the king angrily questions him.

8. Allusion

   • Reference to historical and political events, such as the British Raj and the Indian National Congress, highlighting colonial-era power struggles.

   • Satyagraha (a term used for Gandhi’s non-violent resistance) humorously describes the tiger’s refusal to move.

9. Paradox

   • The king believes that by killing all the tigers, he can prevent his death, but his actions ironically lead to his downfall.

10. Metaphor

11. The Maharaja’s battle with tigers serves as a metaphor for human attempts to control fate and nature, which ultimately fail.

These literary devices enhance the satirical, ironic, and humorous tone of the story while conveying deeper messages about power, fate, and human folly. Let me know if you need further explanations!

A close-up of the Maharaja and his young son playing with a small, crudely carved wooden tiger toy. The toy has sharp splinters protruding from it. One splinter is seen piercing the Maharaja’s hand, with a small drop of blood forming. His expression is relaxed, unaware that this minor injury will lead to his demise.

Characters in The Tiger King

1. The Maharaja (Tiger King) – Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur

   • Role: The protagonist and ruler of Pratibandapuram.

   • Traits: Arrogant, superstitious, power-hungry, and obsessed with defying fate.

   • Significance: His relentless quest to kill a hundred tigers, believing it will prevent his foretold death, ironically leads to his demise due to a wooden toy tiger.

   • Irony: Though he bravely faces real tigers, he is ultimately killed by a trivial injury from a toy.

2. The Chief Astrologer

   • Role: The one who predicts the Maharaja’s death at birth.

   • Traits: Wise, cautious, and dramatic in his prophecies.

   • Significance: His warning about the hundredth tiger fuels the Maharaja’s obsession with hunting.

   • Irony: Though he speaks in exaggerated tones, his prediction comes true in an unexpected way.

3. The Dewan (Chief Minister)

   • Role: The Maharaja’s minister, who serves him out of fear.

   • Traits: Loyal, fearful, and intelligent in handling crises.

   • Significance: He secretly arranges for an old tiger to be presented as the hundredth kill to satisfy the Maharaja’s ego.

   • Irony: His attempt to help the king avoid fate ends up ensuring the prophecy’s fulfillment.

4. The British Officer (Durai)

   • Role: A high-ranking British official who wishes to hunt tigers in Pratibandapuram.

   • Traits: Authoritative, fond of hunting, and diplomatic in his demands.

   • Significance: His request puts the Maharaja’s rule at risk, leading to a costly bribe in the form of diamond rings.

   • Irony: The Maharaja, who is so powerful in his kingdom, has to bow to British influence in order to save his throne.

5. The British Officer’s Wife (Duraisani)

   • Role: The British officer’s wife, who receives diamond rings as a bribe.

   • Traits: Opportunistic and materialistic.

   • Significance: She takes all fifty rings instead of choosing just a few, showing the greed of the British elite.

   • Irony: The Maharaja thinks he is manipulating the British, but he is the one being exploited.

6. The Maharaja’s Wife (The Princess)

   • Role: The wife of the Maharaja, chosen based on her kingdom’s tiger population.

   • Traits: Submissive, silent, and politically useful.

   • Significance: She serves only as a means to an end—helping the Maharaja hunt more tigers.

   • Irony: The Maharaja marries her for tigers, not for love, showing the absurdity of his obsession.

7. The Maharaja’s Son (The Crown Prince)

   • Role: The young prince, for whom the Maharaja buys a wooden tiger.

   • Traits: Innocent and unaware of the events.

   • Significance: His birthday gift (the wooden tiger) becomes the instrument of fate that kills the Maharaja.

   • Irony: The Maharaja, so concerned about tigers, meets his end due to a harmless toy.

8. The Toymaker

   • Role: A poor craftsman who makes the wooden tiger.

   • Traits: Unskilled and fearful of the king.

   • Significance: His poorly crafted toy causes the fateful injury leading to the Maharaja’s death.

   • Irony: A weak, powerless man indirectly causes the fall of a mighty ruler.

9. The Three Surgeons from Madras

   • Role: The doctors who perform surgery on the Maharaja’s infected hand.

   • Traits: Professional, clinical, and ironic in their statements.

   • Significance: They operate on the Maharaja but announce his death in a cold, ironic manner.

   • Irony: They declare, “The operation was successful. The Maharaja is dead,” emphasizing fate’s inevitability.

10. The Tiger (Real and Wooden)

    Role: The symbol of fate and power.

    Traits: Fierce (real tiger) and harmless (wooden tiger).

    Significance: The real tigers fail to kill the Maharaja, but the wooden tiger ultimately fulfils the prophecy.

    Irony: The Maharaja is so obsessed with hunting real tigers that he fails to recognize the danger from an inanimate object.

    
    

    Conclusion:

The characters in The Tiger King are crafted with humour and irony, serving as tools to critique power, fate, and human folly. The Maharaja’s interactions with these characters highlight his arrogance and ignorance, ultimately leading to his downfall.

A dimly lit surgical room where three British surgeons, dressed in early 20th-century attire, stand beside a bed, announcing, “The operation was successful. The Maharaja is dead.” The Maharaja lies lifeless, his hand still showing signs of infection. In the background, the wooden tiger toy sits on a table, eerily illuminated, representing fate’s final blow.

 Questions and Answers:

1. The story is a satire on the conceit of those in power. How does the author employ the literary device of dramatic irony in the story?

2. What is the author’s indirect comment on subjecting innocent animals to the wilfulness of human beings?

3. How would you describe the behaviour of the Maharaja’s minions towards him? Do you find them truly sincere towards him or are they driven by fear when they obey him? Do we find a similarity in today’s political order?

4. Can you relate instances of game-hunting among the rich and the powerful in the present times that illustrate the callousness of human beings towards wildlife?

5. We need a new system for the age of ecology — a system which is embedded in the care of all people and also in the care of the Earth and all life upon it. Discuss.

Answers

1. Dramatic Irony:

   • The author employs dramatic irony by revealing the fate of the Tiger King early in the narrative, stating that he is already dead. This creates a sense of anticipation for the readers, who know the outcome while the characters in the story do not. The Maharaja continues his tiger-hunting mission with determination, unaware that the hundredth tiger will ultimately lead to his own demise. The readers witness the irony of the situation, making it a satirical commentary on the conceit of those in power who may be blind to the consequences of their actions.

     
     

2. Comment on Animal Exploitation:

   • The author indirectly criticizes the subjecting of innocent animals to human wilfulness through the Maharaja's obsessive tiger hunting. The Maharaja sees tigers as trophies to be collected to fulfil his vow, disregarding the lives of these creatures. The extinction of tigers in his kingdom and the manipulation of circumstances to provide the Maharaja with a tiger for the hundredth kill highlight the callousness with which humans treat wildlife for their own amusement or ego.

     
     

3. Minions' Behaviour:

   • The behaviour of the Maharaja's minions appears to be a mix of fear and obedience. They follow his orders, even when it involves manipulating situations to maintain his pride and prevent him from losing face. The fear of losing their jobs or facing consequences for failure seems to drive their actions more than genuine loyalty or sincerity. This dynamic may reflect a commentary on power structures, where subordinates may prioritize self-preservation over ethical considerations.

4. Game-Hunting Among the Rich:

   • Instances of game-hunting among the rich and powerful in the present times often illustrate the callousness of human beings towards wildlife. Trophy hunting, often practiced by wealthy individuals, involves killing wild animals for sport or as a status symbol. This parallels the Maharaja's tiger hunting in the story, emphasizing the disregard for the lives of animals and the exploitation of wildlife for personal pleasure.

     
     

5. New System for the Age of Ecology:

   • The story indirectly raises the need for a new system that considers the well-being of all living beings and the Earth itself. The Maharaja's single-minded pursuit of killing tigers for personal satisfaction reflects a mindset that prioritizes individual desires over ecological balance. A new system for the age of ecology should emphasize environmental conservation, ethical treatment of animals, and sustainable practices that benefit both humanity and the planet. The story prompts readers to reflect on the consequences of human actions on the environment and advocates for a more responsible and compassionate approach to the natural world.

     
     

(i) Do you think the prediction made by the state astrologer "was indisputably disproved"? Give reasons in support of your answer. (The Tiger King)

Answer

No, the prediction made by the state astrologer was not indisputably disproved. It was ultimately proven true, albeit unexpectedly. Here are the reasons supporting this conclusion:

1. Initial Prophecy: The astrologer predicted that the Tiger King would meet his death because of a tiger. This prophecy set the stage for the Maharaja's obsessive mission to hunt down one hundred tigers, believing that he could defy his fate by killing them.

2. The Hundredth Tiger: The Maharaja believed he had killed the hundredth tiger, which would mean he had circumvented the prophecy. However, the tiger he shot was not killed by his bullet; it was merely stunned. The hunters secretly finished the job to protect their positions, keeping the Maharaja in the dark about the real situation.

3. The Wooden Tiger Incident: The true fulfilment of the prophecy came more ironically and indirectly. On his son's birthday, a splinter from a wooden tiger toy caused an infection in the Maharaja’s hand. This infection led to his death after an unsuccessful surgery, thus fulfilling the astrologer’s prediction that a tiger would ultimately cause his death.

4. Irony and Fate: The narrative emphasizes irony and the inevitability of fate. Despite the Maharaja's efforts to avert the predicted danger, his obsession with tigers brought about his demise through an unforeseen circumstance—a seemingly harmless wooden tiger.

In conclusion, the state astrologer's prediction was indeed fulfilled, although not in the literal manner the Maharaja anticipated. The death caused by the infection from the wooden tiger serves as a poetic twist, reinforcing the inevitability of the foretold fate.

(ii) The boy drank the milk of an English cow, was brought up by an English nanny, tutored in English ......

(The Tiger King)

You realise that western influence on Indian culture is deep rooted since the days of Tiger King.

Write an article using material from the text, on the pros and cons of western influence on Indian society.

You may begin like this......

Indian's exposure to English language and western influence

Answer

Western Influence on Indian Society: Pros and Cons

India's exposure to the English language and Western influence has deep roots, dating back to the colonial era, as highlighted in stories like The Tiger King by Kalki. In the narrative, the boy, later known as the Tiger King, grows up immersed in British culture—drinking the milk of an English cow, being raised by an English nanny, and tutored in English. This serves as a reflection of how the Western way of life was deeply ingrained in the Indian elite during the British Raj, and its impact continues to resonate in contemporary Indian society.

Pros of Western Influence

1. Global Connectivity: One of the most significant advantages of Western influence is the widespread use of the English language. India’s exposure to English has enabled its citizens to connect globally, opening doors to international trade, education, and diplomacy. Today, India is one of the largest English-speaking nations in the world, which gives it a competitive edge in industries like information technology, business, and tourism.

2. Modern Education and Scientific Thinking: Western influence introduced modern education systems to India, focusing on science, mathematics, and rational thinking. This transition from traditional learning to a more scientific approach helped shape India’s progress in fields like medicine, engineering, and technology. Western-style universities and educational institutions became centres of learning and research, significantly contributing to India’s intellectual growth.

3. Democratic Values and Legal Systems: Colonial rule brought with it the introduction of democratic ideals, legal frameworks, and institutions. The Indian Constitution, one of the most comprehensive in the world, draws inspiration from Western legal and political systems. The emphasis on democracy, individual rights, and a parliamentary system are direct outcomes of Western influence, providing a stable foundation for India's post-independence governance.

Cons of Western Influence

1. Erosion of Traditional Values: While Western influence has brought progress, it has also led to the gradual erosion of traditional Indian values and customs. Many aspects of Indian culture, including its languages, art forms, and religious practices, have been sidelined in favour of Western ideals. The influence of Western education and lifestyle has led some to devalue India's rich cultural heritage, causing a disconnect between younger generations and their roots.

2. Economic Disparity and Cultural Elitism: The introduction of Western education and lifestyle created a sense of elitism among those who had access to it, as illustrated in The Tiger King with the Maharaja’s upbringing. Those who embraced Western customs were seen as superior, which widened the gap between different social classes. The emphasis on Western culture often left large segments of the Indian population, especially in rural areas, feeling marginalized and disconnected from the larger societal trends.

3. Consumerism and Materialism: Western influence has also promoted a culture of consumerism and materialism in India. The traditional Indian values of simplicity and sustainable living have been replaced by Western ideals of success, often associated with wealth and material possessions. This shift has led to a growing focus on consumer goods, fast fashion, and a lifestyle driven by economic status, which can exacerbate environmental and social challenges.

Conclusion

The Western influence on Indian society, which began during the British colonial era, has brought both progress and challenges. While it has introduced India to global connectivity, modern education, and democratic values, it has also caused a dilution of traditional culture and an increase in social disparity. As India moves forward, it is essential to strike a balance between embracing the benefits of Western influence and preserving the richness of its own cultural heritage.

Here are multiple-choice questions (MCQs) based on The Tiger King by Kalki:

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1. What was the main prophecy about the Tiger King?

A) He would become the greatest ruler in history

B) He would be killed by a tiger

C) He would rule forever

D) He would be defeated in battle

✅ Answer: B) He would be killed by a tiger

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2. What was the Maharaja’s real name?

A) Jung Bahadur Singh

B) Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur

C) Ranbir Singh Rathore

D) Raja Vishwanath Pratap

✅ Answer: B) Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur

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3. How old was the prince when he first spoke?

A) 6 months

B) 10 days

C) 1 year

D) 5 years

✅ Answer: B) 10 days

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4. What did the infant prince say when he heard the prophecy?

A) "I fear no tiger!"

B) "Let tigers beware!"

C) "I will hunt tigers!"

D) "The prophecy is wrong!"

✅ Answer: B) "Let tigers beware!"

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5. What was the first action the Maharaja took after hearing the prophecy?

A) Declared war on neighbouring kingdoms

B) Ordered the astrologer to be punished

C) Started hunting tigers

D) Consulted his ministers for advice

✅ Answer: C) Started hunting tigers

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6. Why did the Maharaja ban everyone else from hunting tigers?

A) To prevent extinction

B) To protect his people

C) To ensure he alone completed the prophecy

D) Because he loved animals

✅ Answer: C) To ensure he alone completed the prophecy

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7. What did the astrologer warn the king about after killing 99 tigers?

A) The 100th tiger would still be dangerous

B) He would be defeated in war

C) He should stop hunting

D) He should leave the kingdom

✅ Answer: A) The 100th tiger would still be dangerous

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8. How did the Maharaja try to prevent British officers from hunting tigers?

A) He bribed them with gold

B) He arranged for them to hunt other animals

C) He imprisoned them

D) He ignored their requests

✅ Answer: B) He arranged for them to hunt other animals

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9. What gift did the Maharaja send to a British officer’s wife?

A) A tiger cub

B) 50 diamond rings

C) A golden crown

D) An elephant

✅ Answer: B) 50 diamond rings

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10. How did the Maharaja choose his wife?

A) Based on her beauty

B) Based on her family’s wealth

C) Based on the number of tigers in her kingdom

D) Based on her education

✅ Answer: C) Based on the number of tigers in her kingdom

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11. How many tigers did the Maharaja kill in total?

A) 100

B) 99

C) 50

D) 101

✅ Answer: B) 99

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12. What problem did the Maharaja face after killing 99 tigers?

A) There were no tigers left in his kingdom

B) He fell ill

C) His kingdom was attacked

D) The British wanted him to stop hunting

✅ Answer: A) There were no tigers left in his kingdom

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13. Who secretly arranged for the 100th tiger?

A) The British officer

B) The astrologer

C) The dewan (chief minister)

D) The Maharaja’s wife

✅ Answer: C) The dewan (chief minister)

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14. Why was the 100th tiger not truly killed by the Maharaja?

A) The bullet missed it

B) The tiger ran away

C) The tiger fought back

D) The dewan prevented him from killing it

✅ Answer: A) The bullet missed it

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15. Who actually killed the 100th tiger?

A) The Maharaja

B) The dewan

C) The hunters

D) The British officer

✅ Answer: C) The hunters

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16. What gift did the Maharaja buy for his son’s birthday?

A) A golden tiger

B) A wooden tiger

C) A pet tiger

D) A sword

✅ Answer: B) A wooden tiger

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17. What was wrong with the wooden tiger?

A) It was too expensive

B) It had sharp splinters

C) It was cursed

D) It was too small

✅ Answer: B) It had sharp splinters

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18. How did the Maharaja get injured?

A) A real tiger attacked him

B) A splinter from the wooden tiger pricked his hand

C) He was shot accidentally

D) He fell from his horse

✅ Answer: B) A splinter from the wooden tiger pricked his hand

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19. What caused the Maharaja’s death?

A) A tiger attack

B) An infection from the splinter

C) Poisoning

D) A heart attack

✅ Answer: B) An infection from the splinter

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20. What was ironic about the Maharaja’s death?

A) He was killed by a tiger in disguise

B) He survived real tigers but was killed by a toy tiger

C) He was killed by his own son

D) The British tricked him

✅ Answer: B) He survived real tigers but was killed by a toy tiger

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21. What literary device is most prominent in the story?

A) Metaphor

B) Irony

C) Simile

D) Hyperbole

✅ Answer: B) Irony

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22. What does the story satirize?

A) The bravery of kings

B) The stupidity of fate

C) The arrogance of rulers and blind superstition

D) The beauty of nature

✅ Answer: C) The arrogance of rulers and blind superstition

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23. What lesson does the story teach?

A) One can change fate through hard work

B) Power and arrogance lead to downfall

C) Kings should always listen to astrologers

D) Hunting tigers is good

✅ Answer: B) Power and arrogance lead to downfall

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24. What role does the astrologer play in the story?

A) A prophet who misguides the king

B) A wise man who predicts fate correctly

C) A trickster who deceives the king

D) A minister who opposes the king

✅ Answer: B) A wise man who predicts fate correctly

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25. How does the story end?

A) The Maharaja’s son becomes the next king

B) The prophecy is fulfilled in an ironic way

C) The astrologer changes his prediction

D) The Maharaja survives and celebrates

✅ Answer: B) The prophecy is fulfilled in an ironic way