NCERT Class 10 English Words and Expressions 2: Chapter 5 — Glimpses of
This chapter, 'Glimpses of India' from the NCERT Class 10 English textbook 'Words and Expressions 2', explores the rich diversity of India through cultural and culinary insights. It begins with an introductory activity encouraging students to research regional cuisine, dance, music, and art forms of five Indian states. The first text excerpt focuses on the Parsi community in Delhi, detailing their history, traditions, and extensive culinary practices. It highlights the importance of food in their gatherings, from festive preparations like 'Dar ni pori' and 'malido' to daily meals and special teatime treats. The narrative emphasizes the fading traditions and the collective memory associated with the Parsi way of life. This chapter aims to broaden students' understanding of India's multifaceted heritage and the significance of cultural preservation.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 10 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Words and Expressions 2 |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — Glimpses of |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 4 minutes |
| Word count | 631 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the cultural diversity of India.
- Learn about the Parsi community's traditions and culinary practices.
- Identify key Parsi food items and their preparation.
- Appreciate the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
- Develop research skills by exploring regional Indian cultures.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| cajole | persuade someone to do something by sustained coaxing or flattery. |
| dainty | delicately small and pretty. |
| extensive | covering or affecting a large area. |
| overruled | reject or defeat (an argument, theory, or principle) by contrary evidence or argument. |
| vouch | assert or confirm as a result of one's own experience or knowledge. |
| malido | a sweet halwa made with wheat flour, ghee, sugar, and nuts. |
| sev | a type of Indian vermicelli. |
| ravo | a semolina pudding. |
| kheemo kaleji | minced meat with liver. |
| smori dal | a type of lentil preparation. |
| macchi no patio | a tangy fish curry. |
| nan-khatai | a type of Parsi biscuit. |
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Practice questions
- What was Nowrosji Kapadia's favourite pastime? Answer: His favourite pastime was walking to the Old Delhi railway station to greet the Frontier Mail and cajole Parsi visitors.
- What are 'Dar ni pori' and 'malido'? Answer: 'Dar ni pori' is a rich pastry stuffed with sweetened lentils, and 'malido' is a type of halwa.
- What was typically served for breakfast by the Parsis? Answer: Breakfast would start with either sev (vermicelli pudding) or ravo (semolina pudding), followed by bafellaeeda (hard-boiled eggs) and kheemo kaleji (mince with liver).
- Name some Parsi teatime treats mentioned in the text. Answer: Parsi teatime treats included batasa, nan-khatai, flaky khari, patrel, kumas, and bhakra.
- What does the author say about the tradition of food preparation? Answer: Food preparations began two days in advance, and the tradition of community meals continued in northern cities well into the '70s, though this kind of life has almost gone forever.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of 'Glimpses of India' Chapter 5?
The chapter explores India's cultural diversity, focusing on the Parsi community's traditions and culinary practices in Delhi.
Who was Nowrosji Kapadia and what did he do?
Nowrosji Kapadia was a Parsi man in Delhi who welcomed Parsi visitors arriving by the Frontier Mail, often inviting them home for meals and to stay.
What are some traditional Parsi dishes mentioned?
Some traditional Parsi dishes mentioned are Dar ni pori, malido, sev, ravo, bafellaeeda, kheemo kaleji, smori dal, macchi no patio, batasa, nan-khatai, khari, patrel, kumas, and bhakra.
What does the text say about the Parsi community's food preparations?
Food preparations began two days in advance for festive gatherings, and poorer members of the community didn't worry about who paid, highlighting a strong sense of community.
What is the significance of 'malido' preparation?
Malido preparation is described as an exhausting exercise requiring strong biceps, indicating the effort involved in traditional Parsi cooking.
What is the author's sentiment regarding Parsi traditions?
The author expresses a sense of nostalgia and sadness that the traditional way of life, especially communal food sharing, has almost gone forever.
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NCERT Class 10 English — Words and Expressions 2 — Chapter 5 — Glimpses of. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.