Comprehension Answers: 'The Kitemaker' by Ruskin Bond
1. How do we know that Ali was not from a wealthy family?
We know Ali was not from a wealthy family because he wore patched clothes, walked barefoot, and
lived a modest life. His simple appearance showed he came from a poor background.
2. Why did Mehmood still make kites?
Mehmood still made kites out of habit, love for the craft, and to pass on the tradition to his grandson.
It brought him joy and reminded him of his younger days.
3. State the two reasons why people had stopped buying kites.
1. People became too busy with work and no longer had time for kite flying.
2. Modern entertainment replaced traditional pastimes like kite flying.
4. Why did the author call the 'defeated' kite 'liberated'?
The kite, though cut and defeated, was free to fly in the open sky. The word 'liberated' suggests
freedom, showing that even in defeat, the kite found a kind of release.
5. What were Mehmood's memories about the time when grown men flew kites? How had people's
attitude to time changed now?
Mehmood remembered a time when grown men proudly flew kites, and it was a respected pastime.
Now, people rushed through life and had no time for such simple pleasures.
6. Who looked at the old kitemaker with indifference and why? Mention another instance where
similar indifference was shown towards him.
The townspeople and even children looked at Mehmood with indifference because they no longer
valued his skills. Another instance is when passers-by ignored him while he sat quietly under the
tree.
7. What did Mehmood wish to leave for his grandson? Why?
Mehmood wished to leave his craft and knowledge of kite-making to his grandson, Ali. He hoped Ali
would carry forward the tradition and keep the art alive.
8. Was there a connection between the butterfly flying from Mehmood's beard to the mimosa tree,
and the torn kite being lifted away from the tree and flying away?
Yes, both symbolized freedom and the soul's release. The butterfly and the torn kite represented
Mehmood's spirit leaving his body peacefully, like nature reclaiming him.
Life Skills and Values 1: How do you think the elderly should be treated?
The elderly should be treated with respect, kindness, and care. They hold wisdom and life
experience and should not be ignored. As shown in the story, indifference can lead to loneliness and
sadness in their final years.
2. 'There is a great affinity between trees and men.' Explain.
Both trees and men grow, mature, and eventually fade. Like trees, old men become rooted in
memory and wisdom. The author uses this simile to show Mehmood's quiet dignity as he aged - he
sat under a tree, like one himself, watching life pass.
3. Do you think having patrons helps a particular form of art flourish? Why are many traditions and
crafts in danger of dying out?
Yes, patrons provide support, recognition, and financial help to artists. Without them, traditional arts
may not survive in modern, commercialized societies. Many crafts die out because they are no
longer valued or passed down to younger generations.
