CBSE Class 9 English Moments NCERT Solutions: Iswaran the Storyteller

Reviewed by NCERT Help Editorial Team · Updated on 29 Jul 2026

NCERT Solutions PDF Class 9 PDF

CBSE Class 9 English Moments, Chapter 3, 'Iswaran the Storyteller' introduces us to Iswaran, a remarkable character who serves as Mahendra's assistant. More than just a cook and cleaner, Iswaran is an extraordinary storyteller whose tales captivate his master. This chapter explores Iswaran's unique abilities in managing daily chores and his flair for dramatic narration. The NCERT Solutions focus on his vivid descriptions, such as the uprooted tree and the rampaging tusker, highlighting how he builds suspense and surprise in his stories. We also examine Mahendra's reactions, from initial disbelief to growing fear, especially after hearing Iswaran's ghost stories on a full-moon night. These solutions aim to deepen students' understanding of the story's characters, their motivations, and the narrative techniques employed, aiding in effective exam preparation.

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Quick info

Board	CBSE
Class	Class 9
Subject	Moments
Session	2026
Language	English
Type	NCERT Solutions
Chapter	3. Iswaran The Storyteller

Chapter summary

NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Moments, Chapter 3, 'Iswaran the Storyteller', offers a deep dive into the narrative and characters. The solutions explain Iswaran's value to Mahendra beyond his domestic duties, highlighting his storytelling prowess and resourcefulness. They analyze the techniques used in his vivid descriptions, such as the uprooted tree and the escaped elephant, and discuss the plausibility of his tales. The chapter's exploration of fear and imagination, particularly Mahendra's reaction to Iswaran's ghost stories on a full-moon night, is also covered. These solutions aid in understanding the story's themes and character development.

Learning outcomes

Understand the role and importance of Iswaran in Mahendra's life.
Analyze Iswaran's storytelling techniques and their effect on the listener.
Evaluate the plausibility of the events narrated by Iswaran.
Explain Mahendra's reactions to Iswaran's stories, especially those involving supernatural elements.
Discuss the theme of imagination versus reality as presented in the story.
Identify the literary devices used in the narrative to create suspense and atmosphere.

Topics covered

Paper topics

Character Analysis of Iswaran
Mahendra's Role and Perspective
Storytelling Techniques
Suspense and Surprise in Narrative
Plausibility of Events
Supernatural Elements and Fear
Imagination vs. Reality
Themes of Companionship and Resourcefulness
Narrative Structure
Literary Devices in Storytelling

Important topics

Iswaran's character and his value to Mahendra
Analysis of Iswaran's storytelling methods
Mahendra's reaction to the ghost story
The theme of imagination and fear
Plausibility of the narrated events

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Questions and Solutions

1. In what way is Iswaran an asset to Mahendra?

In what way is Iswaran an asset to Mahendra?

Solution: Iswaran proves to be a significant asset to Mahendra in multiple ways. Primarily, he is a highly competent and adaptable domestic assistant who uncomplainingly accompanies Mahendra to any location he is posted. Beyond his essential duties of cooking and managing the household chores, Iswaran serves as a constant source of entertainment. He possesses a remarkable talent for weaving endless, engaging stories and anecdotes on a wide variety of subjects, effectively filling Mahendra's leisure time. Furthermore, Iswaran demonstrates exceptional resourcefulness; he has a knack for finding vegetables even in seemingly barren areas and can miraculously prepare delicious dishes from limited ingredients, showcasing his culinary expertise and ability to manage resources efficiently.

2. How does Iswaran describe the uprooted tree on the highway? What effect does he want to create in his listeners?

How does Iswaran describe the uprooted tree on the highway? What effect does he want to create in his listeners?

Solution: Iswaran describes the uprooted tree on the highway with considerable dramatic flair. He would arch his eyebrows and extend his hands in a theatrical manner to convey the scene. He would begin by setting a suspenseful mood, stating that the road was deserted and he was completely alone. Suddenly, he would reveal spotting something that appeared to be an enormous, bushy beast sprawled across the road, making him hesitant to proceed. As he moved closer, he would then reveal that it was, in fact, a fallen tree with its dry branches spread out. The effect Iswaran aims to create in his listeners is one of suspense and surprise. He builds anticipation with his vivid and slightly frightening description, only to reveal a mundane reality, thus adding an element of unexpectedness to his narrative.

3. How does he narrate the story of the tusker? Does it appear to be plausible?

How does he narrate the story of the tusker? Does it appear to be plausible?

Solution: Iswaran narrates the story of the tusker with a dramatic prologue, referring to elephants as 'huge well-fed beasts.' He recounts how the elephant, after escaping from a timber yard, rampaged through the town, destroying stalls and entering a school. He describes the elephant uprooting football goalposts, tearing nets, and flattening water drums, while teachers fled to the terrace. Iswaran then claims that, as a junior student, he bravely confronted the elephant by grabbing a cane and whacking its third toenail, causing it to collapse. This story does not appear plausible. The detailed account of the elephant's destruction and Iswaran's heroic, solitary act of subduing it single-handedly stretches credibility significantly, making the narrative seem highly exaggerated and unlikely to be true.

4. Why does the author say that Iswaran seemed to more than make up for the absence of a TV in Mahendra's living quarters?

Why does the author say that Iswaran seemed to more than make up for the absence of a TV in Mahendra's living quarters?

Solution: The author makes this statement because Iswaran provided Mahendra with constant companionship and entertainment, fulfilling the role that a television might typically serve. Iswaran was not just a cook; he was an engaging conversationalist who would chat with Mahendra every night after work. His most significant contribution was his storytelling ability. He would regale Mahendra with a variety of tales, ensuring that Mahendra never felt bored or lonely in his isolated living quarters. Therefore, Iswaran's presence and his entertaining narratives effectively compensated for the lack of modern entertainment like a TV.

5. Mahendra calls ghosts or spirits a figment of the imagination. What happens to him on a full-moon night?

Mahendra calls ghosts or spirits a figment of the imagination. What happens to him on a full-moon night?

Solution: Mahendra initially dismisses ghosts as imaginary because Iswaran had told him they were living near a burial site and had even described seeing a frightening ghost of a woman holding a fetus, especially during a full moon. However, on a full-moon night, Mahendra's skepticism is challenged. He is awakened by a low, guttural moaning sound near his window. Although he tries to convince himself it might be a cat, the sound is too deep. Overcome by curiosity and perhaps a growing unease, he looks out the windowsill. In the moonlight, he sees a dark, cloudy form clutching a bundle. This terrifying sight causes him to break out in a cold sweat and fall back onto his pillow, panting, demonstrating that his belief in the non-existence of ghosts was shaken.

6. Can you think of some other ending for the story?

Can you think of some other ending for the story?

Solution: Yes, the story could have several alternative endings. One possibility is that Mahendra, instead of resigning, decides to confront his fear. He could investigate the sound further, perhaps with Iswaran, and discover a rational explanation, thereby proving his own courage and disproving the ghost theory. Another ending could focus on the bond between Mahendra and Iswaran. Instead of Mahendra leaving Iswaran behind, they could decide to leave the unsettling location together, reinforcing their companionship and mutual reliance. This would emphasize Iswaran's role as a supportive figure and Mahendra's appreciation for his unique qualities, ending on a note of solidarity rather than fear and resignation.

Common mistakes

Confusing Iswaran's fictional narratives with reality.
Underestimating the impact of storytelling on a listener's perception.
Failing to analyze the author's intent behind Iswaran's exaggerated tales.
Not considering alternative interpretations or endings for the story.

Revision tips

Focus on Iswaran's character traits and how they make him an 'asset'.
Pay attention to the specific details and dramatic elements in his stories.
Consider Mahendra's perspective and his changing reactions to Iswaran's tales.
Think about the underlying themes of fear, imagination, and companionship.
Practice rewriting parts of the story or creating alternative endings.

Practice MCQs

Q1. What made Iswaran an 'asset' to Mahendra?

Q2. How did Iswaran describe the uprooted tree to create suspense?

Q3. What was the main effect Iswaran aimed for with his storytelling?

Q4. Why did Mahendra initially dismiss ghosts as a 'figment of imagination'?

Q5. What sound woke Mahendra on the full-moon night?

Frequently asked questions

Who is Iswaran and why is he important in the story?

Iswaran is Mahendra's cook and domestic help. He is important not only for his cooking and household skills but also for his exceptional ability to tell captivating stories, which entertains Mahendra and makes him a valuable companion.

How does Iswaran use storytelling to engage his audience?

Iswaran uses vivid descriptions, dramatic pauses, and suspenseful elements, often exaggerating events to create a sense of wonder and surprise for his listener, Mahendra.

What is the significance of the uprooted tree and the tusker stories?

These stories showcase Iswaran's narrative skill and his ability to make even ordinary or frightening events sound extraordinary. They highlight his resourcefulness and his imaginative approach to recounting experiences.

Why does Mahendra become scared on the full-moon night?

Mahendra becomes scared because he hears a moaning sound outside his room and, upon looking, sees a ghostly figure, which aligns with the ghost stories Iswaran had told him about their living quarters being near a burial ground.

What does the story suggest about the nature of fear and imagination?

The story suggests that fear can be amplified by imagination, especially when influenced by compelling narratives. Mahendra's rational mind is eventually overcome by the fear instilled by Iswaran's tales and his own perceived experience.

Are Iswaran's stories meant to be believed literally?

No, the stories are generally not meant to be believed literally. They are presented as examples of Iswaran's storytelling talent, designed to entertain and create dramatic effect, rather than to report factual events.

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