“Two Magicians” Story by Satyajit Ray Notes given here include a summary in English and Hindi, Word Meanings, Question and Answers. textbook exercises and their solutions and answers are given after the Notes section.
Chapter Notes -‘Two Magicians’ by Satyajit Rai
Summary of the Story “The Two Magicians”
English Summary
The story revolves around Surapati, a magician traveling for his upcoming shows. On a train journey to Lucknow, he reminisces about his struggles as an unambitious magician, comparing himself with great magicians like Houdini and Chefalo. As he faces self-doubt, he is haunted by memories of his late guru, Tripura Babu, and his teachings about the dedication and artistry required in magic.
In a strange dreamlike state, Surapati encounters his guru, who demonstrates an extraordinary trick with a coin and a ring. Tripura Babu challenges Surapati, demanding part of his payment and promising to teach him the trick in return. Surapati agrees, learning the secret technique.
When he wakes up, he discovers that the ring and coin trick he learned in the dream works perfectly in real life. This new trick transforms his confidence, and during the first magic show in Lucknow, he dedicates his success to his late guru, ending the show with the mesmerizing Pure Indian Magic act.
The story emphasizes the importance of dedication, focus, and the art of performance while blending mystery, nostalgia, and triumph.
Hindi Summary (कहानी का सारांश)
यह कहानी सुरपति नाम के एक जादूगर के इर्द-गिर्द घूमती है, जो अपने आगामी शो के लिए यात्रा कर रहा है। लखनऊ की ट्रेन यात्रा के दौरान, वह एक महत्वाकांक्षी जादूगर के रूप में अपने संघर्षों को याद करता है और अपने आप को महान जादूगरों जैसे हुडिनी और शेफालो से तुलना करता है। आत्म-संदेह से जूझते हुए, उसे अपने दिवंगत गुरु त्रिपुरा बाबू और जादू के लिए समर्पण और कला की उनकी शिक्षाओं की याद आती है।
एक अजीब सपने जैसे अनुभव में, सुरपति अपने गुरु से मिलता है, जो सिक्के और अंगूठी के साथ एक अद्भुत ट्रिक दिखाते हैं। त्रिपुरा बाबू उसे चुनौती देते हैं, उसके भुगतान का एक हिस्सा मांगते हैं और बदले में उसे ट्रिक सिखाने का वादा करते हैं। सुरपति सहमत हो जाता है और रहस्यमय तकनीक सीख लेता है।
जब वह जागता है, तो उसे पता चलता है कि सपने में सीखी गई ट्रिक वास्तव में काम करती है। इस नई ट्रिक से उसका आत्मविश्वास बढ़ता है, और लखनऊ के पहले शो में, वह अपनी सफलता अपने दिवंगत गुरु को समर्पित करता है और शो का समापन मंत्रमुग्ध करने वाले ‘प्योर इंडियन मैजिक’ प्रदर्शन से करता है।
कहानी समर्पण, ध्यान और प्रदर्शन की कला के महत्व को दर्शाती है और इसमें रहस्य, स्मृतियाँ और विजय का सुंदर मेल है।
Vocabulary Notes (Word Meanings)
- brake van: A railway vehicle for storing luggage and providing brakes (रेल गाड़ी का डिब्बा जिसमें सामान रखा जाता है और ब्रेक लगाने की सुविधा होती है).
- coupe: A private compartment in a train for two people (रेल गाड़ी में दो लोगों के लिए निजी डिब्बा).
- Chuckling: Laughing quietly or inwardly (धीमे या अंदर ही अंदर हंसना).
- stencilled: Designed or marked using a stencil (स्टेंसिल का उपयोग करके डिज़ाइन या चिह्नित करना).
- conveyed: Transported or communicated something (कुछ ले जाना या संप्रेषित करना / पहुंचाना).
- prolonged: Extended in time (समय में लंबा खींचा हुआ).
- applause: Clapping to show appreciation (ताली बजाकर प्रशंसा करना).
- escorted: Accompanied someone to guide or protect (किसी को मार्गदर्शन या सुरक्षा के लिए साथ ले जाना).
- triumphal journey: A victorious or successful journey (विजयी या सफल यात्रा).
- a huge expanse: A vast and open area (एक विशाल और खुला क्षेत्र).
- unambitious: Lacking a strong desire to achieve success (महत्वाकांक्षा की कमी).
- magician Houdini: A famous magician known for escape acts (प्रसिद्ध जादूगर जो अपने भागने के करतबों के लिए जाना जाता है).
- goose pimples: Small bumps on the skin due to cold or fear (ठंड या डर के कारण त्वचा पर छोटे उभार).
- streamed past: Moved quickly past something (किसी चीज़ के पास से तेज़ी से गुजरना).
- eyes clouded over: Eyes became filled with sadness or emotion (आंखों में उदासी या भावना भर जाना).
- hubbub: Loud noise and confusion (जोर का शोर और भ्रम).
- thronging around: Gathering around in large numbers (चारों ओर बड़ी संख्या में इकट्ठा होना).
- torrent of words: A rapid and continuous flow of speech (शब्दों का तेज़ और निरंतर प्रवाह).
- conjuring: The act of performing magic tricks (जादू दिखाने की कला).
- made it materialize again: Made something appear again as if by magic (जादू से किसी चीज़ को फिर से प्रकट करना).
- peals of laughter: Loud and hearty laughter (जोर की और दिल से हंसी).
- marquee: A large tent used for events (बड़ी तंबू जैसी संरचना जो कार्यक्रमों के लिए उपयोग की जाती है).
- nondescript: Lacking distinctive features (विशेष गुणों की कमी).
- stupefied: Shocked or amazed (चकित या अचंभित).
- summon up enough strength to clap: Gathered enough energy to applaud (ताली बजाने के लिए पर्याप्त ताकत जुटाना).
- spilled: Fell or caused to fall out (गिरा या गिरा दिया).
- genuinely: Truly or sincerely (वास्तव में या ईमानदारी से).
- ramshackle room: A badly maintained and run-down room (खस्ताहाल और जर्जर कमरा).
- poverty and deprivation: Lack of money and basic necessities (गरीबी और आवश्यक चीजों की कमी).
- lacking: Missing or not having enough (अनुपस्थित या पर्याप्त नहीं होना).
- accursed country: A place that is cursed or unfortunate (अभिशप्त स्थान).
- counterfeit: Fake or not genuine (नकली या असली नहीं).
- effusively: Expressing feelings openly and warmly (भावनाओं को खुले और गर्मजोशी से व्यक्त करना).
- Partly: To some extent (कुछ हद तक).
- gratitude: Thankfulness or appreciation (आभार या प्रशंसा).
- vehemently: In a forceful and intense way (जोरदार और तीव्र तरीके से).
- to dedicate yourself: To devote yourself completely to a task (खुद को पूरी तरह से किसी कार्य के लिए समर्पित करना).
- needs dedication: Requires commitment and focus (समर्पण और ध्यान केंद्रित करने की आवश्यकता).
- willpower and concentration: Mental strength and focus (मानसिक ताकत और एकाग्रता).
- Chefalo: A famous magician character in the story (कहानी में एक प्रसिद्ध जादूगर).
- Madame Palermo: A mysterious silent magician (एक रहस्यमयी मूक जादूगर).
- Incredibly: Unbelievably or surprisingly (अविश्वसनीय रूप से या आश्चर्यजनक रूप से).
- patter: Quick and continuous speech (तेज़ और निरंतर बोलने का तरीका).
- mainstay: The central or most important support (मुख्य आधार).
- sleight of hand: Skillful tricks performed with hands (हाथों से किए गए कुशल जादू के करतब).
- exception: Something not conforming to a rule (किसी नियम के अनुसार न होना).
- flair and art: Natural talent and creativity (प्राकृतिक प्रतिभा और रचनात्मकता).
- web of memories snapped suddenly: A chain of thoughts was suddenly broken (यादों की श्रृंखला अचानक टूट गई).
- with a bone-rattling jerk: With a strong and sudden movement (जोरदार और अचानक झटके के साथ).
- indignation: Anger at unfair treatment (अन्याय पर गुस्सा).
- cropped up: Appeared unexpectedly (अचानक प्रकट होना).
- perspiration: Sweating due to heat or stress (पसीना आना).
- gloom: A feeling of sadness or darkness (उदासी या अंधकार की भावना).
- A pall of gloom: A situation of widespread sadness (व्यापक उदासी की स्थिति).
- to settle: To come to rest or resolve (ठहरना या सुलझाना).
- the fundamentals: The basic principles or elements (मूल सिद्धांत या तत्व).
- diminished: Reduced or lessened (कम हो जाना).
- regret: A feeling of sadness about something done or not done (किए गए या न किए गए काम के लिए पछतावा).
- approval and applause: Acceptance and clapping in appreciation (स्वीकृति और प्रशंसा में ताली बजाना).
- piercing gaze: An intense and focused look (तीव्र और केंद्रित नजर).
- purity is worthless: True simplicity has no value (सच्ची सरलता की कोई कीमत नहीं है).
- a little glitter and showmanship: A bit of glamour and performance style (थोड़ा सा आकर्षण और प्रदर्शन शैली).
- chased: Ran after or pursued (पीछा करना).
- clairvoyance: The ability to see beyond normal senses (सामान्य इंद्रियों से परे देखने की क्षमता).
- telepathy: Communicating thoughts without speaking (बिना बोले विचारों का संचार).
- unrestricted access: Complete freedom to access something (पूरी तरह से कुछ तक पहुंचने की स्वतंत्रता).
- dedication: Complete commitment (पूर्ण समर्पण).
- devotion: Deep love and loyalty (गहरी भक्ति और निष्ठा).
- concentration: The ability to focus (ध्यान केंद्रित करने की क्षमता).
- a flashy, foreign charlatan: A showy and deceptive foreigner (एक दिखावटी और धोखेबाज विदेशी).
- allegations: Accusations without proof (बिना प्रमाण के आरोप).
- drastic: Extreme or severe (अत्यधिक या गंभीर).
- got to the point: Came to the main idea (मुख्य बात पर आना).
- flabbergasted: Extremely surprised or shocked (बहुत ज्यादा चकित या हैरान).
- proposal: A suggested plan (एक प्रस्तावित योजना).
- furious: Extremely angry (बेहद गुस्से में).
- startled: Surprised or alarmed (चकित या चौकन्ना).
- grotesque: Ugly or distorted (कुरूप या विकृत).
- disrupt and humiliate: To disturb and insult (परेशान करना और अपमानित करना).
- numb: Lacking sensation (सुन्न).
- inhumanly penetrating way: An unnaturally intense manner (अमानवीय रूप से
- grimly: Seriously or sternly (गंभीरता से या कठोरता से).
- incapacitated: Made unable to act (अक्षम किया गया).
- exhausted: Extremely tired (बेहद थका हुआ).
- indisposition: A slight illness or unwillingness (हल्की बीमारी या अनिच्छा).
- looked around frenziedly: Searched in a panicked manner (घबराहट में इधर-उधर देखा).
- bewildered: Confused and puzzled (भ्रमित और हैरान).
- departed: Someone who has passed away (जो मर चुका हो).
Textbook Q&A (Chapter: Two magicians)
Comprehension
A. Answer these questions briefly.
- Why does Surapati say that he didn’t know if Tripura Babu was alive?
- What according to Tripura Babu is the difference between genuine and fake magic?
- Explain: sleight of hand.
- Why does Tripura Babu refer to the yogic arts?
- What request did Tripura Babu make of Surapati?
- What ‘sleight of hand’ did Tripura Babu ask Surapati to show him?
- Why did Surapati hand over a coin and his ruby ring to Tripura Babu?
Answers:
1. Why does Surapati say that he didn’t know if Tripura Babu was alive?
Answer: Surapati says this because he hadn’t met Tripura Babu for many years and had no news about him.
2. What, according to Tripura Babu, is the difference between genuine and fake magic?
Answer:According to Tripura Babu, genuine magic comes from dedication, concentration, and skills like hypnotism and telepathy. Fake magic uses tricks, machines, and showmanship to impress people.
3. Explain: sleight of hand.
Answer: Sleight of hand means performing quick and clever hand movements to create the illusion of magic tricks.
4. Why does Tripura Babu refer to the yogic arts?
Answer: Tripura Babu refers to yogic arts to explain that real magic requires deep focus, hard work, and years of practice, similar to the discipline in yoga.
5. What request did Tripura Babu make of Surapati?
Answer: Tripura Babu asked Surapati to let him perform in the Lucknow show instead of him and take half of the payment.
6. What ‘sleight of hand’ did Tripura Babu ask Surapati to show him?
Answer: Tripura Babu asked Surapati to bring the jack of clubs to the front with a shake of his wrist.
7. Why did Surapati hand over a coin and his ruby ring to Tripura Babu?
Answer: Surapati gave them to Tripura Babu so he could learn the coin-and-ring trick, which he had always wanted to master.
Longer Answers:
1. Why does Surapati say that he didn’t know if Tripura Babu was alive?
Ans: Surapati says this because he had heard that Tripura Babu had been run over by a bus and was dead. When he saw Tripura Babu alive, he was surprised and didn’t know if he was actually alive or not.
2. What according to Tripura Babu is the difference between genuine and fake magic?
Ans: According to Tripura Babu, genuine magic is based on deep knowledge, practice, and concentration. It includes things like hypnotism, clairvoyance, and telepathy. Fake magic, on the other hand, is just about tricks, machinery, and illusions that fool people without true magical skills.
3. Explain: sleight of hand.
Ans: Sleight of hand means performing tricks using quick hand movements that people can’t see. It’s a skill used by magicians to make things appear or disappear in an illusion, like hiding a coin or card without anyone noticing.
4. Why does Tripura Babu refer to the yogic arts?
Ans: Tripura Babu refers to the yogic arts because they are an example of genuine magic. He says that yogic practices require years of concentration, dedication, and control, just like real magic, which cannot be done with machinery or tricks.
5. What request did Tripura Babu make of Surapati?
Ans: Tripura Babu asked Surapati to let him perform in place of Surapati at the Lucknow show, claiming that Surapati was ill. In return, Surapati would get half of the payment, and Tripura Babu could fulfill his desire to perform magic before a large audience.
6. What ‘sleight of hand’ did Tripura Babu ask Surapati to show him?
Ans: Tripura Babu asked Surapati to show him a simple trick where he would bring the jack of clubs from the back to the front of the deck of cards with a shake of his wrist. This was a basic sleight of hand trick.
7. Why did Surapati hand over a coin and his ruby ring to Tripura Babu?
Ans: Surapati handed over the coin and his ruby ring to Tripura Babu because he had agreed to his proposal. In exchange, Tripura Babu promised to teach him the trick he wanted, and Surapati felt he had no choice but to comply.
B. Answer these questions with reference to the context.
- ‘Something like that would have been wonderful. I’d have been relieved of all my worries.’
a. Who is the speaker of these lines?
b. What does ‘Something like that’ refer to?
c. What were his worries? - ‘The time never came. Chefalo came before that.’
a. For what did the time never come?
b. What happened before that?
c. What did Surapati dream of? - ‘And what if I don’t agree?’
a. Who says this and to whom?
b. Which proposal might the speaker not agree to?
c. What would be the consequence of his not agreeing?
Answers:
1. ‘Something like that would have been wonderful. I’d have been relieved of all my worries.’
a. Who is the speaker of these lines?
Ans: The speaker is Tripura Babu.
b. What does ‘Something like that’ refer to?
Ans: ‘Something like that’ refers to a magic act that could earn him money and help him showcase his skills to a large audience.
c. What were his worries?
Ans: His worries were his old age, financial struggles, and his unfulfilled desire to perform magic in front of a big audience.
2. ‘The time never came. Chefalo came before that.’
a. For what did the time never come?
Ans: The time never came for Surapati to fully learn and practice magic under Tripura Babu’s guidance.
b. What happened before that?
Ans: Before that, Surapati met Chefalo, a foreign magician, and decided to follow him to learn a different kind of magic focused on showmanship.
c. What did Surapati dream of?
Ans: Surapati dreamed of becoming a successful magician, gaining fame, and earning admiration for his performances.
3. ‘And what if I don’t agree?’
a. Who says this and to whom?
Ans: These words are said by Surapati to Tripura Babu.
b. Which proposal might the speaker not agree to?
Ans: The proposal was to let Tripura Babu perform at the Lucknow show in Surapati’s place, pretending Surapati was ill.
c. What would be the consequence of his not agreeing?
Ans: Tripura Babu warned that he could disrupt Surapati’s performance and humiliate him in front of the audience using his magical powers.
C. Answer these questions.
- Tripura Babu tells Surapati, ‘I admit to feeling pride. But…’. What thoughts are triggered in Surapati’s mind on hearing this?
- Why does Tripura Babu say, ‘I was proud of your success that day. But it was mixed with regret.’?
- What did Surapati notice about Tripura Babu when he closely observed him?
- What according to Tripura Babu was basic to the finest magic?
- What were the allegations made by Tripura Babu and why could Surapati not deny them? (pg 167)
- When and why did Surapati become very angry with Tripura Babu?
- When and why does Tripura Babu say, ‘You realize my power now?’
- What does Surapati realise when Anil brings him a cup of tea?
- Why do you think Surapati asks Anil to close the windows and watch his magic trick?
- Which two tricks did Surapati perform in front of Anil?
- Write the diary entry in about 200 words that Surapati would write after the first day of his magic show at Lucknow.
- Comment on Tripura Babu’s statement: ‘There are no levers and pulleys here. There is only dedication, devotion, and concentration.’
- Imagine that years later Surapati writes his biography. Write the last chapter of his biography describing all that he had learnt about and from the art of magic.
Answers:
More than one set of answers are given here to help students.
1. Surapati feels a mix of emotions, including guilt and regret. He recalls how Tripura Babu had invested time in teaching him magic and realizes that his mentor felt disappointed by his decision to abandon genuine magic for a path of showmanship.
2. Tripura Babu felt proud of Surapati’s achievements but regretted that Surapati had not pursued the true essence of magic, which involves dedication and mastery beyond mere sleight of hand.
3. Surapati noticed that Tripura Babu looked frail and aged. His face showed signs of hardship, and his demeanor reflected desperation, possibly due to his financial struggles and unfulfilled ambitions.
4. Tripura Babu believed that the finest magic required dedication, devotion, and concentration, along with mastery of deeper skills like hypnotism, clairvoyance, and telepathy.
5. Tripura Babu accused Surapati of abandoning genuine magic for quick fame and wealth under Chefalo’s influence. Surapati couldn’t deny these allegations as he knew they were true and reflected his choices.
6. Surapati became angry when Tripura Babu suggested that he fake illness for the Lucknow show, allowing him to perform in his place. Surapati was outraged as this was his first major performance outside Bengal, and he saw it as crucial to his career.
7. Tripura Babu says this after demonstrating his ability to incapacitate Surapati by numbing his hands and blurring his vision. This display of power was meant to assert his superiority and pressure Surapati into agreeing to his proposal.
8. Surapati realizes that his encounter with Tripura Babu may have been a vivid dream or hallucination. However, he discovers that he has somehow learned the coin-and-ring trick, which further confuses and amazes him.
9. Surapati asks Anil to close the windows to create a private space and ensure no distractions as he tests his newfound ability to perform the coin-and-ring trick, which he had just learned.
10. Surapati performed the coin-and-ring trick, making the coin roll to the ring and return to him, and a sleight of hand to take the cup of tea from Anil without spilling it.
11. A ‘Diary entry’ as an example answer is given here:
Lucknow, First Day of the Magic Show
Dear Diary,
Today was the most unforgettable day of my career. The first show of my magic tour outside Bengal has been a resounding success. As the curtain rose, I couldn’t help but remember my mentor, Tripura Babu. His teachings echoed in my mind, reminding me that magic is more than sleight of hand—it is about dedication and focus.
The audience applauded every trick, but the highlight was the coin-and-ring trick, which I called Pure Indian Magic. It left everyone spellbound. As I performed it, I felt a connection with my craft that I hadn’t experienced before. For a moment, I thought about Tripura Babu and his belief in genuine magic.
I started the show by paying tribute to my late teacher, which felt right. His lessons have shaped me, even though I didn’t appreciate them fully back then.
Today, I understood the essence of magic: it’s not just about impressing others but about believing in yourself and your art. I will always cherish this day as the beginning of a new chapter in my journey as a magician.
Yours,
Surapati
12. Tripura Babu emphasizes that true magic is not about mechanical tricks but about deep mental and physical discipline. It involves mastery of techniques like telepathy and hypnotism, which require years of practice and commitment.
13. An example answer for the last chapter of Surapati’s biography is given here:
The Legacy of Magic
Looking back on my life, I realize that my journey as a magician was not just about performing tricks but about discovering myself. When I first started, I was fascinated by the glamour of magic shows. I admired foreign magicians like Chefalo and Madame Palermo and sought to emulate their showmanship.
But as time passed, I understood the wisdom of my mentor, Tripura Babu. He taught me that magic is more than entertainment—it is a blend of skill, discipline, and dedication. His lessons about clairvoyance, telepathy, and concentration became the foundation of my art.
I still remember the coin-and-ring trick, which changed my life. That trick taught me the value of believing in magic, not just performing it. Tripura Babu’s words, “Purity is worthless without a little glitter and showmanship,” became my mantra. I learned to balance authenticity with the need to captivate my audience.
As I write this, I feel grateful for all the experiences—good and bad—that shaped me. Magic has taught me humility, perseverance, and the power of imagination. My journey is a testament to the idea that true magic lies not in tricks but in the human spirit’s ability to inspire awe and wonder.
Click here for shorter answers:
1. Tripura Babu tells Surapati, ‘I admit to feeling pride. But…’. What thoughts are triggered in Surapati’s mind on hearing this?
Ans: Surapati feels guilt for not following Tripura Babu’s true teachings of magic and is reminded of the path he chose—shallow, commercial magic.
2. Why does Tripura Babu say, ‘I was proud of your success that day. But it was mixed with regret.’?
Ans: Tripura Babu is proud of Surapati’s success but regrets that Surapati chose showy magic over genuine magic that requires dedication.
3. What did Surapati notice about Tripura Babu when he closely observed him?
Ans: Surapati noticed that Tripura Babu appeared weaker, older, and impoverished, but his eyes held great power.
4. What according to Tripura Babu was basic to the finest magic?
Ans: Tripura Babu said that dedication, devotion, and concentration are the basics of the finest magic.
5. What were the allegations made by Tripura Babu and why could Surapati not deny them?
Ans: Tripura Babu accused Surapati of choosing flashy magic over true magic. Surapati couldn’t deny it because he had indeed chosen fame over true art.
6. When and why did Surapati become very angry with Tripura Babu?
Ans: Surapati became angry when Tripura Babu asked him to fake illness and let Tripura Babu perform instead, compromising his career.
7. When and why does Tripura Babu say, ‘You realize my power now?’
Ans: Tripura Babu says this when Surapati fails to perform a trick and feels incapacitated due to Tripura Babu’s mental control.
8. What does Surapati realize when Anil brings him a cup of tea?
Ans: Surapati realizes that Tripura Babu’s influence made him weak, but he can still perform the magic of the coin and ring trick.
9. Why do you think Surapati asks Anil to close the windows and watch his magic trick?
Ans: Surapati wants to demonstrate his magical skill with the coin and ring trick that he learned in his dream.
10. Which two tricks did Surapati perform in front of Anil?
Ans: Surapati performed:
- Coin and ring trick.
- A sleight of hand trick with the tea cup.
11. Write the diary entry in about 200 words that Surapati would write after the first day of his magic show at Lucknow.
Answer:
Dear Diary,
Today was an incredible day. The show was a great success. The audience loved the coin and ring trick, which I performed as “Pure Indian Magic.” I’m proud, but also deeply grateful to Tripura Babu, who taught me the real meaning of magic. The applause was satisfying, but what moved me most was the realization that true magic is about dedication. I now understand that magic is not just tricks but a connection of the mind, body, and soul. Thank you, Tripura Babu, for showing me the true path.
Yours, Surapati.
12. Comment on Tripura Babu’s statement: ‘There are no levers and pulleys here. There is only dedication, devotion, and concentration.’
Ans: This statement emphasizes that true magic does not rely on mechanical devices but on the magician’s mental focus and commitment to the craft.
13. Imagine that years later Surapati writes his biography. Write the last chapter of his biography describing all that he had learnt about and from the art of magic.
Answer:
The Last Chapter: A Lifetime of Magic
Magic is not about flashy tricks; it’s about dedication and mastery. I learned this from Tripura Babu and my experiences. Magic connects the mind, heart, and soul, and the greatest lesson I learned is that true power lies in devotion to the art. My journey has taught me to appreciate the spiritual aspect of magic and life. Magic is a way of seeing the world with wonder and respect.ere for Shorter Answers
Click for one more set of answers:
1. Tripura Babu tells Surapati, ‘I admit to feeling pride. But…’. What thoughts are triggered in Surapati’s mind on hearing this?
Ans: When Tripura Babu says this, Surapati reflects on the pride and satisfaction Tripura Babu must have felt about Surapati’s success as a magician, but he also feels a sense of guilt and regret for choosing the wrong path—following the flashy and foreign magic of Chefalo instead of the true art that Tripura Babu had tried to teach him.
2. Why does Tripura Babu say, ‘I was proud of your success that day. But it was mixed with regret.’?
Ans: Tripura Babu was proud of Surapati’s success as a magician but also felt regret because Surapati had chosen the path of showy, commercial magic rather than focusing on true magic that required dedication, patience, and a deeper understanding. He regretted that Surapati didn’t continue learning the genuine magic he had tried to teach him.
3. What did Surapati notice about Tripura Babu when he closely observed him?
Ans: Surapati noticed that Tripura Babu looked much older, weaker, and impoverished than he had imagined. He realized that despite Tripura Babu’s immense knowledge of magic, his financial struggles and lack of recognition had taken a toll on him. Surapati also observed that Tripura Babu’s eyes held a deep, penetrating power.
4. What according to Tripura Babu was basic to the finest magic?
Ans: According to Tripura Babu, the basic elements of the finest magic are dedication, devotion, and concentration. He emphasized that these qualities were essential in learning genuine magic, which involved more than just tricks—it was about gaining a deep understanding and mastery over one’s own mind and body, as well as others.
5. What were the allegations made by Tripura Babu and why could Surapati not deny them?
Ans: Tripura Babu alleged that Surapati had chosen the easy path of flashy, commercial magic instead of committing to the deep, spiritual aspects of true magic. Surapati could not deny these allegations because he had indeed abandoned the path of genuine magic in favor of earning quick wealth and fame, thus making the wrong choice for personal gain.
6. When and why did Surapati become very angry with Tripura Babu?
Ans: Surapati became very angry when Tripura Babu proposed that Surapati should pretend to be ill during the Lucknow performance and let him take his place to earn money. Surapati was furious because it would compromise his integrity and hurt his reputation as a magician, especially at the start of his career.
7. When and why does Tripura Babu say, ‘You realize my power now?’
Tripura Babu says this after Surapati fails to perform a basic sleight of hand trick, realizing that his fingers have gone numb due to Tripura Babu’s hypnotic and mental control over him. Tripura Babu’s magic had incapacitated Surapati and shown him just how powerful his abilities were.
8. What does Surapati realize when Anil brings him a cup of tea?
Ans: When Anil brings him tea, Surapati realizes that Tripura Babu had used his powers to make him physically weak and confused earlier. He notices that the ring he had feared losing is still on his finger, and his sudden understanding of the coin-and-ring trick confirms his belief that Tripura Babu’s magic had influenced him.
9. Why do you think Surapati asks Anil to close the windows and watch his magic trick?
Ans: Surapati asks Anil to close the windows and watch the trick because he wants to demonstrate his new-found magic skills with the coin and ring trick. He is eager to show that his control over the trick is now real, especially after using the technique learned in his dream, which he attributes to the influence of Tripura Babu’s magic.
10. Which two tricks did Surapati perform in front of Anil?
Ans: Surapati performed two tricks:
- The coin and ring trick, where the coin rolled to the ring after he focused on it.
- A sleight of hand trick, where he took the cup of tea from Anil’s hand without him noticing, showing his mastery of magic.
11. Write the diary entry in about 200 words that Surapati would write after the first day of his magic show at Lucknow.
Answer:
Dear Diary,
Today was a day full of surprises and emotions. The first day of my magic show in Lucknow was successful beyond my expectations. I started with deep respect for my late guru, Tripuracharan Mullick, whose teachings still guide me. The audience loved every trick, especially the final one, the coin and ring trick, which I proudly called “Pure Indian Magic.” As I performed, I realized how far I have come and how much more there is to learn. I was reminded of my past—of my early days of learning magic from Tripura Babu. The tricks I once thought were mere illusions have turned into something deeper now, thanks to the dedication and patience I’ve developed. I can feel the power of true magic, and today, I finally understood the importance of devotion in this art. The applause was gratifying, but what I feel today is something far more valuable: an understanding of the real meaning behind magic. Thank you, Tripura Babu, for teaching me the true essence of this art.
Yours, Surapati.
12. Comment on Tripura Babu’s statement: ‘There are no levers and pulleys here. There is only dedication, devotion, and concentration.’
Ans: Tripura Babu’s statement emphasizes that true magic is not about using tricks, tools, or mechanical devices (like levers or pulleys) to deceive the audience. Instead, it requires deep mental focus, devotion, and concentration to master the art. These qualities help a magician connect with the audience on a spiritual and emotional level, allowing them to perform genuine acts of magic that go beyond physical tricks.
13. Imagine that years later Surapati writes his biography. Write the last chapter of his biography describing all that he had learned about and from the art of magic.
Answer:
The Last Chapter: A Lifetime of Magic
My journey through the world of magic has been more than just a pursuit of fame or fortune—it has been a quest for understanding the true essence of life. I began as a naive boy, dazzled by flashy tricks and the promise of wealth. But it was through the teachings of my late guru, Tripura Babu, and my own experiences that I learned that magic is not just about the illusion—it is about the mind, heart, and soul. True magic requires dedication, concentration, and a deep respect for the art. Over the years, I have come to realize that the greatest magic is not in the tricks we perform, but in the way we connect with the world around us. Magic has taught me to see the world with wonder and appreciation, to always strive for excellence, and to never forget that the real magic lies in devotion to the craft. As I look back on my life, I can say with certainty that magic has shaped me into the person I am today—a person who understands that the true power of magic is in the heart.
Vocabulary
A. Put these words in the suitable columns to form correct collocations. (see the book for the full questions)
Answer: There may be more than one set of collocations; here we are giving few examples:
| Take | Make | Catch | Keep |
|---|---|---|---|
| take a break | make a promise | catch a bus | keep in touch |
| take a chance | make an appointment | catch a thief | keep quiet |
| take an exam | make a record | catch a cold | keep calm |
| take notes | make fire | keep rest | |
| take a leg | make a ball | keep the change |
| Take | Make | Catch | Keep | Break |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| a break | a promise | a thief | quiet | a leg |
| a chance | an appointment | a bus | calm | a promise |
| a bus | a record | a cold | in touch | a record |
| a rest | a fire | a ball | keep a promise | |
| the change | a ball | |||
| notes |
Grammar
A. Use the present perfect continuous tense forms to complete this dialogue between a dentist and a small girl.
- Dentist: Good gracious! What cavities! What _____ you _____ to your teeth? (do)
- Girl: I _____ anything new. (not do)
- Dentist: What do you mean?
- Girl: Oh! I _____ just _____ lots of chocolates and sweets.(eat)
- Dentist: You know you shouldn’t have done that. _____ you _____ your teeth even at night? (brush)
- Girl: No I am afraid, I _____ my teeth regularly at night. (not brush)
- Dentist: No wonder, they are in such bad shape!
Answer:
Dentist: Good gracious! What cavities! What have you been doing to your teeth?
Girl: I haven’t been doing anything new.
Dentist: What do you mean?
Girl: Oh! I have just been eating lots of chocolates and sweets.
Dentist: You know you shouldn’t have done that. Have you been brushing your teeth even at night?
Girl: No, I am afraid, I haven’t been brushing my teeth regularly at night.
Dentist: No wonder, they are in such bad shape!
B. Fill in these blanks with the past perfect continuous tense forms of the verbs.
- They _____ for five days before the rescue team _____ them. (travel/see)
- Tripta _____ all night. She was sleeping. (study)
- The cook _____ for five hours. He has gone to his room. (stand)
- We _____ an hour when it began to rain. (play)
- The two boys _____ when I reached the spot. (fight)
- I _____ all day, so I did not want to go out. (work)
- I was really tired because I_____ all day. (study)
Answer:
- They had been traveling for five days before the rescue team saw them.
- Tripta had been studying all night. She was sleeping.
- The cook had been standing for five hours. He has gone to his room.
- We had been playing for an hour when it began to rain.
- The two boys had been fighting when I reached the spot.
- I had been working all day, so I did not want to go out.
- I was really tired because I had been studying all day.
C. Meenal and her friends had been doing something when her mother walked into the room. Write a sentence about each of her friends, saying what he or she had been doing. (see the book for the full questions)
Answer:
- Priya: Priya had been reading a book when Meenal’s mother walked into the room.
- Amit: Amit had been playing video games when Meenal’s mother walked into the room.
- Ritu: Ritu had been drawing a picture when Meenal’s mother walked into the room.
- Raj: Raj had been listening to music when Meenal’s mother walked into the room.
- Anjali: Anjali had been chatting with friends online when Meenal’s mother walked into the room.
D. Use appropriate punctuation marks to make these sentences meaningful.
- i moved slowly, very slowly, so that may not disturb the old mans sleep
- the boy cried, my mother has touched an electric wire
- the first ever train in eastern india steamed out of howrah station for hoogly on 15 august 1854
- punctuation is important, my teacher said, without punctuation marks your ” writing would be very confusing
Answer:
- I moved slowly, very slowly, so that I may not disturb the old man’s sleep.
- The boy cried, “My mother has touched an electric wire!”
- The first-ever train in Eastern India steamed out of Howrah Station for Hooghly on 15 August, 1854.
- “Punctuation is important,” my teacher said. “Without punctuation marks, your writing would be very confusing.”
E. Punctuate the advertisement given below. (see the book for the full question)
Answer:
Writing
A. Imagine yourself to be Surapati and write a letter to one of your young disciples, telling him what Tripura Babu had taught you, and also advise him/her about what path to take in life.
Answer:
Example answers are given here:
Surapati’s Letter to His Disciple
Dear ABC [You can write any name for the disciple),
I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. I am writing to share some important lessons that I have learned from my journey, especially from an unusual yet impactful teacher, Tripura Babu.
Tripura Babu was a man who had immense knowledge of real magic, beyond the tricks and sleights of hand we often see. What he taught me was not just about the outward displays of magic, but about the deeper and finer aspects—those which require dedication, concentration, and a pure heart. He showed me the power of focus and willpower, the ability to control not just objects, but even the mind and thoughts of others. He taught me about the yogic arts, clairvoyance, and telepathy—skills that go far beyond the physical world.
While his teachings were powerful, they came at a great personal cost. He spoke of dedication to a craft, to an art, but at times, it seemed like the path he followed came at the expense of true happiness. His journey was filled with regret and missed opportunities. I, too, fell into the trap of seeking quick success, chasing the superficial, like the flashy foreign magic, forgetting that the real path lies in simplicity and inner strength.
Now, after all that I’ve learned, my advice to you would be this—seek the truth in whatever path you choose. Do not get swayed by quick rewards or external appearances. Whether you choose to continue learning magic or pursue something else, do it with a pure heart and full dedication. Remember, the real magic lies in mastering oneself and being at peace with one’s own choices.
You must be patient. Take time to understand what is real and true. Do not be fooled by those who promise shortcuts to success. Hard work and dedication will bring true joy, not the illusion of a quick triumph. Like Tripura Babu, you must be willing to dedicate yourself fully and not let distractions cloud your judgment.
I wish you all the best, my dear disciple. May you find your true path and walk it with sincerity and devotion.
Yours sincerely,
Surapati
Short letter:
Dear [You can write any name for the disciple),
I hope this letter finds you well. I want to share some lessons I learned from Tripura Babu, a teacher who taught me the true art of magic. His teachings went beyond tricks and sleight of hand—they were about dedication, concentration, and inner strength. He showed me how to control not just objects but also my mind.
However, Tripura Babu’s path came with regret. He focused too much on quick success and flashy magic, forgetting that real magic comes from simplicity and inner peace.
My advice to you is to seek truth and dedicate yourself fully to whatever you choose. Whether it’s magic or another path, do it with sincerity. Hard work and dedication bring real joy, not the illusion of quick success.
I wish you all the best on your journey.
Yours sincerely,
Surapati
