How I Taught My Grandmother by Sudha Murthy
Detailed Summary of How I Taught My Grandmother to Read by Sudha Murthy
The story is narrated by a 12-year-old girl who lives in a village in Karnataka. Her grandmother, an elderly but active woman, is deeply fond of the Kannada novel Kashi Yatre, which is published in weekly tinstallments in a magazine. The novel, written by Triveni, revolves around the story of an old woman who longs to visit Kashi (Varanasi) but sacrifices her dream to help an orphan girl in need of money for her wedding. The grandmother is emotionally connected to this story as she relates to the protagonist’s desire for spiritual fulfillment.
Since the grandmother is illiterate, she relies on her granddaughter to read the weekly episodes of Kashi Yatre to her. Every week, she eagerly listens to the story and discusses it with others in the village. However, one day, the granddaughter has to leave for a wedding at her uncle’s house for a few days. During this time, the next installment of the novel is published, but the grandmother is unable to read it herself.
This incident deeply affects the grandmother. She realizes that despite her intelligence and ability to manage the household efficiently, she is powerless without literacy. She feels ashamed that she has to depend on someone else to read for her. This realization sparks a strong desire in her to learn how to read.
When the granddaughter returns, the grandmother expresses her frustration and determination. She tells her that she wants to learn to read and requests her to become her teacher. The granddaughter is surprised but agrees. The grandmother sets a goal for herself—to learn to read before Dussehra, which is only a few months away.
With great dedication, the grandmother starts learning the Kannada alphabet. She follows a strict routine, practicing daily. She faces difficulties initially but does not give up. The granddaughter, as a patient teacher, guides her through the process. Over time, the grandmother’s efforts pay off, and she successfully learns to read.
On Dussehra, as a mark of respect and gratitude, the grandmother touches her granddaughter’s feet, acknowledging her as her teacher. The granddaughter is initially embarrassed because, in Indian culture, it is customary for younger people to touch the feet of elders, not the other way around. However, the grandmother explains that a teacher, regardless of age, deserves respect.
This moment marks the triumph of learning and determination, showing that education has no age limit.
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