Chapter 9: Madam Rides the Bus
Who is the protagonist of the story?
Valli, an 8-year-old girl, curious and adventurous, is the central character who dreams of riding a bus on her own.
What was Valli’s favorite pastime?
Standing at her front door and watching people and vehicles on the road. She observed everything keenly.
What fascinated Valli the most?
The bus ride to the town. She wanted to experience it herself after listening to others and watching the bus daily.
How much was the bus fare?
The fare for one-way travel was 30 paise, so Valli needed 60 paise for a round trip.
How did Valli save money for the ride?
She resisted buying toys, balloons, and peppermint, and even avoided the fair to save 60 paise.
Why didn’t Valli ask anyone to accompany her?
She wanted to be independent and experience the journey herself, without anyone’s help or interference.
How did she board the bus?
She waited until the bus was less crowded and then boarded confidently, talking to the conductor politely but firmly.
How did the conductor treat Valli?
He was amused by her maturity and jokingly called her “Madam.” He treated her kindly and playfully.
What did Valli observe from the bus window?
She saw green fields, canals, palm trees, distant mountains, and a young cow running in front of the bus.
What excited her the most on the ride?
The little cow running in front of the bus, wagging its tail, made her laugh uncontrollably.
Why did Valli refuse to get off the bus at the town?
She only wanted the bus ride, not to roam the town. She told the conductor she would return on the same bus.
What saddened her during the return journey?
She saw the same little cow lying dead by the roadside, which deeply disturbed her.
How did the sight of the dead cow affect Valli?
She became silent and reflective, realizing that life can be harsh and unpredictable.
What did the conductor say about her bravery?
He admired her courage and maturity, calling her “madam” again with respect and fondness.
How did Valli act during the ride?
She behaved maturely, didn’t talk much, didn’t get distracted, and was very conscious about her dignity and safety.
Why didn’t Valli tell her mother about the bus ride?
She wanted it to remain her secret adventure. Also, her mother wouldn’t have allowed her to go alone.
What was ironic about her mother’s conversation?
While her mother talked about how little children don’t know much, Valli had just returned from an adventurous journey alone.
What values does Valli represent?
Curiosity, independence, courage, maturity, and self-control.
How is the story humorous?
Through Valli’s innocent conversations, her interaction with the conductor, and her serious yet childish nature.
What does the bus journey symbolize?
Valli’s journey represents growth, exploration, and the beginning of her understanding of the real world.
What lesson does Valli learn?
That life is not always fun and games—it has sadness and harsh realities, like the death of the cow.
What is the tone of the story?
Light, humorous, and childlike in the beginning, becoming reflective and serious toward the end.
How does the title ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ fit the story?
It highlights Valli’s boldness and independence, as she acts like an adult on her secret bus ride.
How does the conductor support Valli?
He doesn’t mock her seriousness, treats her with kindness, and respects her wish to travel alone.
What shows Valli’s maturity?
She planned the trip, saved money, managed herself well, refused treats from strangers, and dealt with emotional shock silently.
Why is Valli relatable to students?
Her curiosity, bravery, and innocent determination reflect traits many young people can connect with.
How does the story highlight rural life?
It shows a simple village setup where a child finds joy and adventure just by watching traffic and planning a bus ride.
What is the story’s main theme?
The journey from innocence to experience, self-discovery, and the contrast between childhood dreams and life’s realities.
What did Valli enjoy most during the trip?
The scenery, the ride, the cow, and the sense of independence gave her immense joy.
What message does the story give?
Every child has dreams and should be encouraged to explore their world. At the same time, life’s truths are best learned through experience.