The Wit that Won Hearts is the first chapter of Unit 1: Wit and Wisdom in the NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi textbook. This engaging story features the wise King Krishnadeva Raya, Queen Thirumalambal, and the clever court poet Tenali Ramakrishna, who uses wit and intelligence to resolve a misunderstanding. The chapter teaches students the importance of empathy, patience, and thoughtful problem-solving through an entertaining historical tale.
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The Wit that Won Hearts Worksheet
The story is set in the glorious Vijayanagara Empire during the reign of King Krishnadeva Raya, a wise ruler and patron of art and literature. His court included the famous Ashtadiggajas, among whom Tenali Ramakrishna was admired for his intelligence and humour.
A misunderstanding arose when the queen yawned while listening to the king’s poem. The king believed she was insulting his poetry and stopped speaking to her. Heartbroken, Queen Thirumalambal sought Tenali Rama’s help.
Instead of directly advising the king, Tenali Rama cleverly presented “special paddy seeds” in court. He explained that the seeds would fail only if the person sowing them yawned. When everyone laughed and even the king yawned, Tenali reminded him that yawning is a natural human action, not a sign of disrespect.
Realising his mistake, the king apologised to the queen. The royal couple reconciled, and peace and happiness returned to the palace.
Moral / Learning
– Never judge others without understanding the situation.
– Wisdom and patience solve conflicts better than anger.
– A sincere apology can restore broken relationships.
– Wit can be used to spread peace and understanding.
The Wit that Won Hearts Question Answers
Q1. Why was Krishnadeva Raya’s reign called the Golden Era?
Ans: It was called the Golden Era because art, literature, architecture, and learning flourished under his rule.
Q2. Why did the king become angry with the queen?
Ans: He misunderstood her yawning during his poem as an act of disrespect.
Q3. Why did the queen seek Tenali Rama’s help?
Ans: She believed only Tenali Rama’s wisdom and wit could make the king understand the misunderstanding.
Q4. What was Tenali Rama’s clever strategy?
Ans: He used the example of paddy seeds and yawning to show that yawning is natural and cannot be considered disrespectful.
Q5. How did the story end?
Ans: The king realised his mistake, apologised sincerely, and reunited happily with the queen.