An Astrologer’s Day by RK Narayan | An Astrologer’s Day | Download Free PDF – Easy Literary Lessons
An Astrologer’s Day
Punctually at midday he opened his bag and spread out his professional equipment, which consisted of a dozen cowrie shells, a square piece of cloth with obscure mystic charts on it, and a bundle of palmyra writing. His forehead was resplendent with sacred ash and vermilion, and his eyes sparkled with a sharp abnormal gleam which was really an outcome of a continual searching look for customers, but which his simple clients took to be a prophetic light and felt comforted. The power of his eyes was considerably enhanced by their position, placed as they were between the painted forehead and the dark whiskers which streamed down his cheeks: even a halfwit’s eyes would sparkle in such a setting. To crown the effect he wound a saffron coloured turban around his head. This colour scheme never failed. People were attracted to him as bees are attracted to cosmos or dahlia stalks. He sat under the boughs of a spreading tamarind tree which flanked a path running through the Town Hall Park. It was a remarkable place in many ways: a surging crowd was always moving up and down this narrow road morning till night. A variety of trades and occupations was represented all along its way: medicine sellers, sellers of stolen hardware and junk, magicians, and, above all, an auctioneer of cheap cloth, who create enough din all day to attract the whole town. Next to him in vociferousness came a vendor of fried groundnut, who gave his ware a fancy name each day, calling it ‘Bombay Ice-cream’ one day, and on the next ‘Delhi Almond’ and on the third ‘Raja’s Delicacy’, and so on and so forth, and people flocked to him. A considerable portion of this crowd dallied before the astrologer too. The astrologer transacted his business by the light of a flare which crackled and smoked up above the groundnut heap nearby. Half the enchantment of the place was due to the fact that it did not have the benefit of municipal lighting. The place was lit up by shop lights. One or two had hissing gaslights, some had naked flares stuck on poles, some were lit up by old cycle lamps, and one or two, like the astrologer’s managed without lights of their own. It was a bewildering criss-cross of light rays and moving shadows. This suited the astrologer very well, for the simple reason that he had not the least intended to be an astrologer when he began life; and he knew no more of what was going to happen to himself next minute. He was as much a stranger to the stars as were his innocent customers. Yet he said things which pleased and astonished everyone; that was more a matter of study, practice, and shrewd guesswork. All the same, it was as much an honest man’s labour as any other, and he deserved the wages he carried home at the end of a day.
He had left his village without previous thought or plan. If he had continued there he would have carried on the work of his forefathers—namely tilling the land, living, marrying, and ripening in his cornfield and ancestral home. But that was not to be. He had to leave home without telling anyone and he could not rest till he left it behind a couple of hundred miles. To a villager it is a great deal, as if an ocean flowed between.
He had a working analysis of mankind’s troubles; marriage, money, and the tangles of human ties.Long practice had sharpened his perception. Within five minutes he understood what was wrong. He charged three pies per question, never opened his mouth till the other had spoken for at least ten minutes, which provided him enough stuff for a dozen answers and advises. When he told the person before him, gazing at his palm, ‘In many ways you are not getting the fullest results for your efforts’, nine out of ten were disposed to agree with him. Or he questioned: ‘Is there any woman in your family, maybe even a distant relative, who is not well disposed towards you?’ Or he gave an analysis of character: ‘Most of your troubles are due to your nature. How can you be otherwise with Saturn where he is? You have an impetuous nature and rough exterior’. This endeared him to their hearts immediately, for even the mildest of us loves to think that he has a forbidding exterior.
The nuts vendor blew out his flare and rose to go home. This was a signal for the astrologer to bundle up too, since it left him in darkness except for a little shaft of green light which strayed in from somewhere and touched the ground before him. He picked up his cowrie shells and paraphernalia and was putting them back into his bag when the green shaft of light was blotted out; he looked up and saw a man before him. He sensed a possible client and said: “You look so careworn. It will do you good to sit down for a while and chat with me’. The other grumbled some reply vaguely. The astrologer pressed his invitation; whereupon the other thrust his palm under his nose saying: “You call yourself an astrologer?’ The astrologer felt challenged and said, tilting the other’s palm towards the green shaft of light: “Yours is a nature…. “Oh, stop that, the other said, ‘tell me something worthwhile.
Our friend felt piqued. ‘I charge only three pies per question, and what you get ought to be good enough for your money.’ At this the other withdrew his arm, took out an anna, and flung it out to him, saying: ‘I have some questions to ask. If I prove you are bluffing, you must return that anna to me with interest.’
‘If you find my answers satisfactory, will you give me five rupees?’
‘No’ ‘Or will you give me eight annas?’
‘All right, provided you give me twice as much if you are wrong,’ said the stranger. This pact was accepted after a little further argument. The astrologer sent up a prayer to heaven as the other lit a cheroot. The astrologer caught a glimpse of his face by the matchlight. There was a pause as cars hooted on the road, jutka drivers swore at their horses, and the babble of the crowd agitated the semi-darkness of the park. The other sat down, sucking his cheroot, puffing out, sat there ruthlessly. The astrologer felt very uncomfortable. ‘Here, take your anna back. I am not used to such challenges. It is late for me today.’ He made preparations to bundle up. The other held his wrist and said: “You can’t get out of it now. You dragged me in while I was passing.’ The astrologer shivered in his grip; and his voice shook and became faint. ‘Leave me today. I will speak to you tomorrow. The other thrust his palm in his face and said: ‘Challenge is challenge. Go on. The astrologer proceeded with his throat drying up:’There is a woman…’
‘Stop,’ said the other. ‘I don’t want all that. Shall I succeed in my present search or not? Answer this and go. Otherwise I will not let you go till you disgorge all your coins.’ The astrologer muttered a few incantations and replied: ‘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.’ After a good deal of haggling the other agreed. The astrologer said: “You were left for dead. Am I right?’
“Ah, tell me more.’‘
“A knife has passed through you once’ said the astrologer. ‘Good fellow!’ He bared his chest to show the scar. What else?’
‘And then you were pushed into a well nearby in the field. You were left for dead.
”I should have been dead if some passer-by had not chanced to peep into the well,’ exclaimed the other, overwhelmed by enthusiasm. “When shall I get at him?’ he asked clenching his fist.
‘In the next world,’ answered the astrologer. “He died four months ago in a far-off town. You will never see any more of him’. The other groaned on hearing it. The astrologer proceeded:
‘Guru Nayak.
‘You know my name!’ the other said, taken aback.
“As I know all other things. Guru Nayak, listen carefully to what I have to say. Your village is two days’ journey due north of this town. Take the next train and be gone. I see once again great danger to your life if you go from home. He took out a pinch of sacred ash and held it to him.’Rub it on your forehead and go home. Never travel Southward again, and you will live to be a hundred.’
‘Why should I leave home again?’ the other said reflectively.
‘I was only going away now and then to look for him and to choke out his life if I met him. He shook his head regretfully. ‘He has escaped my hands. I hope at least he died as he deserved.’ ‘Yes,’ said the astrologer. ‘He was crushed under a lorry. The other looked gratified to hear it.
The place was deserted by the time the astrologer picked up his articles and put them into his bag. The green shaft was also gone, leaving the place in darkness and silence. The stranger had gone off into the night, after giving the astrologer a handful of coins.
It was nearly midnight when the astrologer reached home. His wife was waiting for him at the door and demanded an explanation.
He flung the coins at her and said: ‘Count them. One man gave all that.’ “Twelve and a half annas,’ she said, counting. She was overjoyed. ‘I can buy some jaggery and coconut tomorrow. The child has been asking for sweets for so many days now. I will prepare some nice stuff for her.’
“The swine has cheated me! He promised me a rupee,’ said the astrologer. She looked up at him. ‘You look worried. What is wrong?
‘Nothing.’
After dinner, sitting on the pyol, he told her: ‘Do you know a great load is gone from me today? I thought I had the blood of a man on my hands all these years. That was the reason why I ran away from home, settled down here, and married you. He is alive.
She gasped. “You tried to kill!’
‘Yes in our village, when I was a silly youngster, we drank, gambled, and quarrelled badly one day—why think of it now? Time to sleep,’ he said yawning, and stretched himself on the pyol.
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Summary
“An Astrologer’s Day” is a short story by R.K. Narayan, a renowned Indian author. This story is part of Narayan’s collection of stories published in 1947. It was the first chapter of the world-famous collection of stories “Malgudi Days” which was later telecasted on television in 2006. The story, like many of Narayan’s works, is set in the fictional South Indian town of Malgudi.
“An Astrologer’s Day” by R.K. Narayan is a story about an astrologer who leads a double life. He left his village abruptly under mysterious circumstances and found himself in a city where he took up the profession of astrology.
The astrologer sets up his business under a tamarind tree near a busy path. His appearance, marked with sacred ash and vermilion, and a saffron-colored turban, attracts people. Despite not having any real knowledge of astrology, he manages to please and astonish his customers by making shrewd guesses based on what they tell him.
One day, a man named Guru Nayak approaches the astrologer, challenging his abilities. The astrologer, under pressure, reveals shocking details about Guru Nayak’s past, including a near-death experience involving a knife and a well. Guru Nayak confirms these revelations and shows the scar from the knife wound.
The astrologer then tells Guru Nayak that the man who tried to kill him is already dead. This news disappoints Guru Nayak, who had been seeking revenge. The astrologer convinces Guru Nayak to return to his village and never travel southward again, promising him a long life if he does so.
The astrologer returns home late at night, his wife waiting for him. He hands her the coins he earned, which she counts and plans to use to buy sweets for their child. Despite the good earnings, the astrologer feels cheated as Guru Nayak had promised him a rupee.
Later, the astrologer confesses to his wife that he had been living with the guilt of having attempted to kill a man in his youth. This revelation shocks his wife. The astrologer is relieved to learn that the man he thought he had killed is alive, and with this burden lifted from his shoulders, he retires for the night.
The story ends with the astrologer finally finding peace with his past, having lifted the burden of guilt he had been carrying for years. The encounter with Guru Nayak brings a significant change in the astrologer’s life. The astrologer’s life takes a dramatic turn as he faces the consequences of his unexpected encounter with Guru Nayak. The story is a profound exploration of guilt, redemption, and the unexpected consequences of our actions.
“एन एस्ट्रोलॉजर्स डे” प्रसिद्ध भारतीय लेखक आरके नारायण की एक लघु कहानी है। यह कहानी 1947 में प्रकाशित नारायण के कहानियों के संग्रह का हिस्सा है। यह विश्व प्रसिद्ध कहानियों के संग्रह “मालगुडी डेज़” का पहला अध्याय था जिसे बाद में 2006 में टेलीविजन पर प्रसारित किया गया था। कहानी, नारायण के कई कार्यों की तरह, सेट है काल्पनिक दक्षिण भारतीय शहर मालगुडी में।
आरके नारायण की “एन एस्ट्रोलॉजर्स डे” एक ज्योतिषी की कहानी है जो दोहरा जीवन जीता है। उन्होंने रहस्यमय परिस्थितियों में अचानक अपना गाँव छोड़ दिया और खुद को एक शहर में पाया जहाँ उन्होंने ज्योतिष का पेशा अपनाया।
ज्योतिषी एक व्यस्त रास्ते के पास एक इमली के पेड़ के नीचे अपना व्यवसाय स्थापित करता है। पवित्र भस्म और सिन्दूर और केसरिया रंग की पगड़ी से अंकित उनका स्वरूप लोगों को आकर्षित करता है। ज्योतिष का कोई वास्तविक ज्ञान न होने के बावजूद, वह अपने ग्राहकों द्वारा बताई गई बातों के आधार पर चतुराईपूर्ण अनुमान लगाकर उन्हें खुश और आश्चर्यचकित करने में कामयाब रहता है।
एक दिन, गुरु नायक नाम का एक व्यक्ति अपनी क्षमताओं को चुनौती देते हुए ज्योतिषी के पास जाता है। ज्योतिषी, दबाव में आकर, गुरु नायक के अतीत के बारे में चौंकाने वाले विवरण प्रकट करता है, जिसमें चाकू और कुएं से जुड़ा मृत्यु-निकट अनुभव भी शामिल है। गुरु नायक इन खुलासों की पुष्टि करते हैं और चाकू के घाव का निशान दिखाते हैं।
तब ज्योतिषी गुरु नायक को बताता है कि जिस व्यक्ति ने उसे मारने की कोशिश की थी वह पहले ही मर चुका है। यह खबर गुरु नायक को निराश करती है, जो बदला लेना चाहता था। ज्योतिषी गुरु नायक को अपने गांव लौटने और फिर कभी दक्षिण की ओर यात्रा नहीं करने के लिए मनाता है, और ऐसा करने पर उसे लंबी उम्र का वादा करता है।
ज्योतिषी देर रात घर लौटता है, उसकी पत्नी उसका इंतजार कर रही होती है। वह उसे अपने कमाए हुए सिक्के देता है, जिसे वह गिनती है और अपने बच्चे के लिए मिठाई खरीदने के लिए उपयोग करने की योजना बनाती है। अच्छी कमाई के बावजूद, ज्योतिषी ठगा हुआ महसूस करता है क्योंकि गुरु नायक ने उसे एक रुपया देने का वादा किया था।
बाद में, ज्योतिषी ने अपनी पत्नी के सामने स्वीकार किया कि वह अपनी युवावस्था में एक व्यक्ति को मारने का प्रयास करने के अपराध बोध के साथ जी रहा था। इस खुलासे से उसकी पत्नी सदमे में है. ज्योतिषी को यह जानकर राहत मिली कि जिस आदमी को उसने सोचा था कि उसने मार डाला है वह जीवित है, और यह बोझ उसके कंधों से हटने के बाद, वह रात के लिए सेवानिवृत्त हो जाता है।
कहानी का अंत तब होता है जब ज्योतिषी को अंततः अपने अतीत से शांति मिल जाती है, और वर्षों से अपने ऊपर रखे अपराध बोध के बोझ को हटा देता है। गुरु नायक से मुलाकात ज्योतिषी के जीवन में एक महत्वपूर्ण बदलाव लाती है। ज्योतिषी के जीवन में एक नाटकीय मोड़ आता है क्योंकि उसे गुरु नायक के साथ अपनी अप्रत्याशित मुलाकात के परिणामों का सामना करना पड़ता है। यह कहानी अपराधबोध, मुक्ति और हमारे कार्यों के अप्रत्याशित परिणामों का गहन अन्वेषण है।
RK Narayan
Early Life and Education
R.K. Narayan, whose full name is Rasipuram Krishnaswami Iyer Narayanaswami, was born on October 10, 1906, in Madras (now Chennai), India. He was one of eight children in a Tamil Brahmin family. Narayan completed his education in 1930.
Career
After briefly working as a teacher, Narayan decided to devote himself to writing. His first novel, “Swami and Friends” (1935), is an episodic narrative recounting the adventures of a group of schoolboys. This book, along with much of Narayan’s later works, is set in the fictitious South Indian town of Malgudi.
Writing Style and Themes
Narayan is known for portraying the peculiarities of human relationships and the ironies of Indian daily life, where modern urban existence often clashes with ancient tradition. His style is graceful, marked by genial humor, elegance, and simplicity.
Recognition and Awards
In a career that spanned over sixty years, Narayan received many awards and honors, including the AC Benson Medal from the Royal Society of Literature, the Padma Vibhushan and the Padma Bhushan, India’s second and third highest civilian awards. In 1994, he received the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship, the highest honor of India’s National Academy of Letters. He was also nominated to the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament.
Legacy
Narayan’s work has left a lasting impact on Indian literature. He was a leading author of early Indian literature in English, along with Mulk Raj Anand and Raja Rao. His mentor and friend Graham Greene was instrumental in getting publishers for Narayan’s first four books. His fictional town of Malgudi has become a part of the Indian literary landscape and continues to captivate readers with its charm and simplicity.
Death
R.K. Narayan passed away on May 13, 2001, in Chennai, India.
In conclusion, R.K. Narayan was a prolific writer whose work has significantly contributed to Indian literature. His stories, set in the fictional town of Malgudi, offer a vivid portrayal of Indian life and continue to resonate with readers around the world.
About “An Astrologer’s Day”
Setting
The story is set in an unnamed village in India, where the astrologer has set up his shop under a large tamarind tree near a busy path. The marketplace is bustling with various trades and occupations, and the astrologer’s spot is lit by a flare above a groundnut heap. The lack of municipal lighting adds to the allure of the place.
Characters
The main characters in the story are the astrologer and Guru Nayak. The astrologer is a man who had to leave his village abruptly and found himself in a city where he took up the profession of astrology. Guru Nayak is a man who approaches the astrologer, challenging his abilities and demanding worthwhile information.
Plot
The astrologer conducts his business by making shrewd guesses about people’s problems. One day, a stranger named Guru Nayak appears. In the darkness, neither can see much of the other’s face. Seeing the opportunity for one more client, the astrologer invites Guru Nayak to sit and chat. The stranger does so, but is instantly skeptical of the astrologer. He aggressively wagers that the astrologer cannot tell him anything true or worthwhile. They haggle over the price and the astrologer agrees. However, when Guru Nayak lights a cheroot, the astrologer catches a brief glimpse of the man’s face and is filled with fear. He tries to get out of the wager, but Guru Nayak holds him to it and will not let him leave. The astrologer tries his usual tack of vague, self-affirming advice, but Guru Nayak will have none of it.
Climax
The astrologer then delivers the final blow – the man who tried to kill Guru Nayak is already dead, having passed away four months ago in a distant town. This news leaves Guru Nayak groaning in disappointment, his thirst for revenge unquenched.
Resolution
The astrologer, in a bid to save his own life, convinces Guru Nayak to return to his village and never travel southward again, promising him a long life if he does so. Guru Nayak, who had been seeking revenge, is disappointed to learn that his enemy is already dead, but seems satisfied with the astrologer’s assurance that the man died a deserving death.
Themes
The story explores several themes such as fate and free will, guilt and redemption, appearance versus reality, and survival.
Symbolism
The story is rich in symbolism. The astrologer’s appearance, the use of light and darkness, the tamarind tree, and the cowrie shells and mystic charts all serve to underscore the themes of the story and add depth to the characters and the plot.
CHARACTERS
The Astrologer
The astrologer is the central character of the story. He is not just an astrologer but a man who has been forced to lead a life that he did not choose. His past is shrouded in mystery and guilt, having left his village abruptly under circumstances that suggest a dark secret. Despite his lack of formal training or knowledge in astrology, he has managed to carve out a living in the city by reading people’s palms and predicting their futures. His success lies not in any supernatural ability, but in his keen understanding of human nature and his ability to make educated guesses based on what his customers tell him. Despite the unconventional nature of his profession, he takes pride in his work and considers it as honest as any other job. His life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters Guru Nayak, a man from his past.
Guru Nayak
Guru Nayak is a man consumed by a thirst for revenge. He approaches the astrologer with a confrontational attitude, challenging his abilities and demanding answers. His aggressive demeanor and the scar from a knife wound hint at a violent past. When the astrologer reveals details about Guru Nayak’s past, including a near-death experience, Guru Nayak is taken aback by the accuracy of these revelations. However, the news of his enemy’s death leaves him disappointed, as it robs him of his chance for revenge. Despite this, he seems to find some satisfaction in the astrologer’s assurance that his enemy met a deserving end.
The Astrologer’s Wife
The astrologer’s wife is a supportive and caring character. She waits for her husband to return home late at night, showing concern when she notices his worried look. Despite their humble circumstances, she finds joy in the small things, like being able to buy sweets for their child with the money her husband earns. She is shocked when her husband confesses his dark past, but her reaction also shows her empathy and understanding. Her character provides a glimpse into the astrologer’s personal life and adds depth to his character.
In conclusion, each character in R.K. Narayan’s “An Astrologer’s Day” is well-drawn and contributes significantly to the story. The astrologer, with his complex past and double life, is a compelling protagonist. Guru Nayak, with his thirst for revenge, serves as a catalyst for the astrologer’s confession. The astrologer’s wife, with her supportive and empathetic nature, provides a counterpoint to the astrologer’s troubled past. Together, they create a memorable and thought-provoking story.
Themes
“An Astrologer’s Day” by RK Narayan explores several themes throughout the story. Here are some of the main themes:
Theme of Fate and Free Will
One of the central themes of the story is the interplay between fate and free will. The astrologer, who had to leave his village abruptly due to a violent incident, finds himself in a city where he takes up the profession of astrology. Despite having no real knowledge of astrology, he manages to convince people of his abilities and even accurately predicts certain aspects of their lives. This raises questions about whether our lives are governed by fate or whether we have the free will to shape our own destinies. The astrologer’s encounter with Guru Nayak, the man he thought he had killed, further underscores this theme. Despite their past actions, both men end up leading lives that are drastically different from what they had intended, suggesting that fate may have a stronger hand in our lives than we realize.
Theme of Guilt and Redemption
The astrologer carries the burden of guilt for a violent act he committed in his youth. This guilt is so profound that it forces him to leave his home and start a new life. However, his encounter with Guru Nayak offers him a chance at redemption. By telling Guru Nayak that his enemy is dead, the astrologer not only saves his own life but also frees Guru Nayak from his thirst for revenge. In doing so, he also frees himself from his guilt. This theme explores the idea that redemption is possible, even for those who carry heavy burdens of guilt.
Theme of Appearance vs Reality
The astrologer’s appearance plays a crucial role in convincing people of his abilities. His resplendent forehead marked with sacred ash and vermilion, his saffron-colored turban, and his sharp, searching eyes all contribute to his image as a knowledgeable and prophetic figure. However, the reality is quite different. The astrologer knows no more about the future than his clients do. His predictions are based on shrewd guesswork and a keen understanding of human nature rather than any supernatural abilities. This theme highlights the discrepancy between how things appear and how they actually are.
Theme of Survival
The astrologer’s story is also a story of survival. Forced to leave his home and his past behind, he must adapt to a new environment and find a way to make a living. Despite the challenges, he manages to carve out a life for himself in the city. His ability to convince people of his astrological abilities, despite having no real knowledge of the subject, is a testament to his resourcefulness and his will to survive.
In conclusion, “An Astrologer’s Day” is a rich and thought-provoking story that explores several themes. Through the character of the astrologer and his encounter with Guru Nayak, R.K. Narayan delves into questions of fate and free will, guilt and redemption, appearance versus reality, and survival. These themes add depth to the story and make it a memorable and engaging read.
Symbolism
“An Astrologer’s Day” by RK Narayan is rich in symbolism, which adds depth to the story and enhances its themes. Here are some key symbols in the story:
Symbolism of the Astrologer’s Appearance
The astrologer’s appearance is not just a matter of personal style, but a carefully crafted persona that he uses to convince his clients of his abilities. The sacred ash and vermilion on his forehead, as well as his saffron-colored turban, are traditional symbols associated with holy men or seers in Indian culture. These symbols lend an air of authenticity and authority to the astrologer, making him appear knowledgeable and prophetic. However, this is merely a facade, a mask that the astrologer wears to carry out his profession. Beneath this mask, the astrologer is just an ordinary man with no real knowledge of astrology or the stars. This symbolism underscores the theme of appearance versus reality in the story, highlighting the discrepancy between how things appear on the surface and what they truly are underneath.
Symbolism of Light and Darkness
Light and darkness play a significant role in the story, serving as powerful symbols. The astrologer conducts his business under the dim light of a flare, which creates an atmosphere of mystery and uncertainty. This setting mirrors the astrologer’s own life, which is shrouded in darkness due to his mysterious past. The flare that lights up his spot can be seen as a symbol of hope, representing the astrologer’s attempt to illuminate the future for his clients, despite his own future being uncertain. However, the darkness that surrounds him symbolizes the unknown and the unknowable, reminding us that the future is always uncertain, no matter how hard we try to predict it.
Symbolism of the Tamarind Tree
The tamarind tree under which the astrologer sits is a symbol of life and growth, but also of death and sorrow. In many cultures, trees are seen as symbols of life and growth. However, the tamarind tree, with its bitter fruit, is often associated with death and sorrow. This could symbolize the astrologer’s past, which is marked by a violent incident that he deeply regrets. The tree could also represent the astrologer’s current life, which, like the tree, provides shade and comfort to others, but is rooted in a bitter past.
Symbolism of the Cowrie Shells and Mystic Charts
The cowrie shells and mystic charts that the astrologer uses in his profession are symbolic of the tools that people use to try to understand and predict the future. Despite their mystical appearance, these tools offer no real insight into the future. They are merely props that the astrologer uses to convince his clients of his abilities. This symbolizes the astrologer’s own lack of knowledge about the future, as well as the human tendency to seek certainty in an uncertain world.
In conclusion, the symbols in R.K. Narayan’s “An Astrologer’s Day” add depth to the story and help to underscore its themes. Through these symbols, Narayan explores complex ideas about appearance and reality, fate and free will, guilt and redemption, and survival. These symbols serve to enrich our understanding of the characters and the plot, making the story a memorable and thought-provoking read.
Very Short Answer Questions
Q: Who is the author of “An Astrologer’s Day”?
A: The author of “An Astrologer’s Day” is R.K. Narayan.
Q: Where does the astrologer conduct his business?
A: The astrologer conducts his business under a tamarind tree near a busy path.
Q: What is the name of the man who challenges the astrologer?
A: The name of the man who challenges the astrologer is Guru Nayak.
Q: What does the astrologer tell Guru Nayak about his past?
A: The astrologer tells Guru Nayak that he was left for dead, stabbed with a knife, and thrown into a well.
Q: What does the astrologer tell Guru Nayak about his enemy?
A: The astrologer tells Guru Nayak that his enemy is already dead.
Q: How does the astrologer convince Guru Nayak to return to his village?
A: The astrologer convinces Guru Nayak to return to his village by promising him a long life if he never travels southward again.
Q: What does the astrologer’s wife plan to do with the money he earned?
A: The astrologer’s wife plans to use the money to buy sweets for their child.
Q: What does the astrologer confess to his wife?
A: The astrologer confesses to his wife that he had been living with the guilt of having attempted to kill a man in his youth.
Q: What is the astrologer’s profession?
A: The astrologer’s profession is astrology.
Q: What is the setting of the story?
A: The story is set in an unnamed village in India.
Q: What is the main theme of the story?
A: The main themes of the story are fate and free will, guilt and redemption, appearance versus reality, and survival.
Q: What does the astrologer use for his readings?
A: The astrologer uses cowrie shells and mystic charts for his readings.
Q: How much does the astrologer charge per question?
A: The astrologer charges three paise per question.
Q: What does Guru Nayak want from the astrologer?
A: Guru Nayak wants the astrologer to tell him something worthwhile about his future.
Q: How does the astrologer recognize Guru Nayak?
A: The astrologer recognizes Guru Nayak when he lights a cheroot, giving the astrologer a brief glimpse of his face.
Q: What does the astrologer tell Guru Nayak about his future?
A: The astrologer tells Guru Nayak that he will live a long life if he returns to his village and never travels southward again.
Q: How does Guru Nayak react to the news of his enemy’s death?
A: Guru Nayak groans in disappointment upon hearing of his enemy’s death.
Q: What is the astrologer’s secret?
A: The astrologer’s secret is that he attempted to kill a man in his youth.
Q: How does the story end?
A: The story ends with the astrologer confessing his past to his wife and finding peace with his past.
Q: What is the significance of the tamarind tree in the story?
A: The tamarind tree under which the astrologer sits is symbolic of life and growth, but also of death and sorrow.
Short Answer Questions
Q: What is the significance of the astrologer’s appearance in the story?
A: The astrologer’s appearance plays a crucial role in convincing his clients of his abilities. His resplendent forehead marked with sacred ash and vermilion, and his saffron-colored turban, are traditional symbols associated with holy men or seers in Indian culture. These symbols lend an air of authenticity and authority to the astrologer, making him appear knowledgeable and prophetic. However, this is merely a facade, a mask that the astrologer wears to carry out his profession. Beneath this mask, the astrologer is just an ordinary man with no real knowledge of astrology or the stars.
Q: How does the astrologer manage to convince his clients of his abilities despite having no real knowledge of astrology?
A: The astrologer manages to convince his clients of his abilities by making shrewd guesses about their problems based on what they tell him. He uses his keen understanding of human nature and his ability to read people to make these guesses. He also uses various props, such as cowrie shells and mystic charts, to create an atmosphere of mystery and authenticity.
Q: What is the astrologer’s secret and how does it affect his life?
A: The astrologer’s secret is that he had attempted to kill a man in his youth. This incident forced him to leave his village abruptly and start a new life in the city. The guilt of this act weighs heavily on him and influences his actions throughout the story. It is this secret that leads to his encounter with Guru Nayak and ultimately allows him to find peace with his past.
Q: How does the astrologer’s encounter with Guru Nayak change his life?
A: The astrologer’s encounter with Guru Nayak brings a significant change in his life. It lifts the burden of guilt he had been carrying for years. By telling Guru Nayak that his enemy is already dead, the astrologer not only saves his own life but also frees Guru Nayak from his thirst for revenge. In doing so, he also frees himself from his guilt. This encounter brings him peace and allows him to move on from his past.
Q: What are the main themes of the story and how are they explored?
A: The story explores several themes such as fate and free will, guilt and redemption, appearance versus reality, and survival. The theme of fate and free will is explored through the astrologer’s predictions and his encounter with Guru Nayak. The theme of guilt and redemption is explored through the astrologer’s past and his confession to his wife. The theme of appearance versus reality is highlighted through the astrologer’s facade and his real identity. The theme of survival is evident in the astrologer’s struggle to make a living and his encounter with Guru Nayak.
Q: What is the significance of the tamarind tree in the story?
A: The tamarind tree under which the astrologer sits is symbolic of life and growth, but also of death and sorrow. In many cultures, trees are seen as symbols of life and growth. However, the tamarind tree, with its bitter fruit, is often associated with death and sorrow. This could symbolize the astrologer’s past, which is marked by a violent incident that he regrets.
Q: How does the astrologer’s wife react to his confession?
A: The astrologer’s wife is shocked when her husband confesses his dark past. However, she shows understanding and empathy, providing a glimpse into the astrologer’s personal life and adding depth to his character.
Q: How does the astrologer convince Guru Nayak to return to his village?
A: The astrologer convinces Guru Nayak to return to his village by promising him a long life if he never travels southward again. He uses his skills as an astrologer to make this prediction, thus saving his own life and freeing Guru Nayak from his thirst for revenge.
Q: What is the significance of the astrologer’s profession in the story?
A: The astrologer’s profession plays a crucial role in the story. Despite having no real knowledge of astrology, he manages to convince people of his abilities and even accurately predicts certain aspects of their lives. His profession allows him to interact with various characters, including Guru Nayak, and plays a key role in the unfolding of the plot.
Q: How does the story end and what does it signify?
A: The story ends with the astrologer confessing his past to his wife and finding peace with his past. This signifies the theme of redemption in the story. Despite his past actions, the astrologer is able to find peace and move on with his life, suggesting that redemption is possible, even for those who carry heavy burdens of guilt.
Essay Type
Q: Discuss the theme of fate and free will in R.K. Narayan’s “An Astrologer’s Day”.
A: The theme of fate and free will is a central theme in R.K. Narayan’s “An Astrologer’s Day”. The story revolves around an astrologer who, despite having no real knowledge of astrology, manages to convince his clients of his abilities. This raises questions about whether our lives are governed by fate or whether we have the free will to shape our own destinies.
The astrologer in the story had to leave his village abruptly due to a violent incident and found himself in a city where he took up the profession of astrology. Despite his past actions, he manages to carve out a new life for himself, suggesting that we have the ability to shape our own destinies. However, his encounter with Guru Nayak, a man from his past, suggests that our past actions can have a profound impact on our present and future, hinting at the role of fate in our lives.
The astrologer’s predictions for his clients, which are based on shrewd guesswork rather than any supernatural abilities, also highlight the theme of fate and free will. His clients believe that their futures are predetermined and seek the astrologer’s guidance to understand their fate. However, the astrologer’s ability to manipulate his clients’ beliefs suggests that our perception of fate can be influenced by external factors.
In conclusion, “An Astrologer’s Day” explores the complex interplay between fate and free will. Through the character of the astrologer and his interactions with his clients, Narayan delves into questions of whether our lives are predetermined or whether we have the ability to shape our own destinies.
Q: Analyze the character of the astrologer in R.K. Narayan’s “An Astrologer’s Day”.
A: The astrologer is the central character in R.K. Narayan’s “An Astrologer’s Day”. He is a complex character who leads a double life. He had to leave his village abruptly under mysterious circumstances and found himself in a city where he took up the profession of astrology, more out of necessity than choice.
Despite not having any real knowledge of astrology or the stars, the astrologer manages to please and astonish his customers. This is due to his keen understanding of human troubles and his ability to make shrewd guesses based on what the customers tell him. He charges three paise per question and never speaks until the customer has spoken for at least ten minutes. Despite the unconventional and unplanned profession, he considers his work as honest as any other and takes pride in the wages he earns.
The astrologer’s past is a mystery. He had to leave his village and the life he was destined for—tilling the land, living, marrying, and ripening in his cornfield and ancestral home. He left without telling anyone and traveled a couple of hundred miles, a significant distance for a villager. Despite his unconventional and unplanned profession, he considers his work as honest as any other and takes pride in the wages he earns.
In conclusion, the astrologer in R.K. Narayan’s “An Astrologer’s Day” is a complex character who leads a double life. His past is shrouded in mystery, and his profession is more a result of circumstance than choice. Despite these challenges, he manages to carve out a life for himself and takes pride in his work. His character provides a fascinating study of human nature and the lengths to which people will go to survive and make sense of their lives.
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