NCERT Class 8 English It So Happend: Chapter 7 — Jalebis
This chapter, "Jalebis," from NCERT's Class 8 English book "It So Happend," narrates a personal anecdote from the author's childhood. While in the fifth standard, the author went to school with four rupees to pay fees. However, the fee collection was postponed. The money in his pocket began to tempt him with the sight of fresh, hot jalebis in a nearby market. After an internal debate, where the coins seemed to speak and tempt him, he succumbed to the temptation and spent the money on jalebis. This act led to panic and a dilemma about facing his teacher and, ultimately, Allah, for spending his school fees. The chapter explores themes of temptation, self-control, and the consequences of impulsive decisions, offering valuable lessons for young students on managing desires and responsibilities.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | It So Happend |
| Chapter | Chapter 7 — Jalebis |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 461 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of temptation and its impact on decision-making.
- Analyze the internal conflict between desire and responsibility.
- Identify the consequences of impulsive actions.
- Appreciate the importance of honesty and accountability.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| khanak-khanak | sound of jingling of coins |
| jalebis | syrupy Indian sweet |
| kadhao | large, open pot for cooking/boiling |
| clamour | loud noise |
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Practice questions
- Why did the boy have money in his pocket? Answer: He had money to pay his school fees and fund.
- What tempted the boy? Answer: The sight of fresh, hot jalebis in the market tempted him.
- What did the coins seem to say to the boy? Answer: The coins seemed to say that money is meant to be spent and only those with money can eat jalebis.
- How did the boy try to silence the coins? Answer: He grabbed all of them and held them tight in his fist.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of the chapter 'Jalebis'?
The main theme is the internal conflict between temptation and responsibility, and the consequences of succumbing to temptation.
Who is the narrator of the story?
The narrator is the author himself, recounting an experience from his childhood when he was in the fifth standard.
What did the boy do with the money meant for school fees?
He spent the money on jalebis, succumbing to the temptation.
What were the boy's fears after spending the money?
He feared facing his teacher, Master Ghulam Mohammed, and ultimately, Allah, for not paying his fees.
What does 'khanak-khanak' mean in the context of the chapter?
'Khanak-khanak' refers to the sound of jingling coins, which the narrator personifies as speaking to him.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 8 English — It So Happend — Chapter 7 — Jalebis. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.