1. What is a horegallu, and how does it serve the travellers in the village?
A horegallu literally means “a stone that can bear weight.” It is a large flat stone placed horizontally over two vertical stones, making a stone bench. It was placed under a banyan tree in the village to provide rest for travellers. People who carried heavy loads and walked long distances could sit there, take a break and refresh themselves. Cool water was also kept in earthen pots nearby so that travellers could drink water and continue their journey with renewed energy.
2. What special memories does the author associate with the horegallu and her grandfather?
The horegallu is closely connected with the author’s childhood memories and her grandfather. During her holidays, the author used to play under the banyan tree where the horegallu was placed. Her grandfather, a retired schoolteacher, spent hours sitting there and talking to travellers who stopped to rest. The villagers shared their worries and difficulties with him. Though he could not solve their problems, his patient listening gave them comfort and strength to continue their journey. The author realised that the horegallu was not just a stone bench but a place of support and kindness.
3. How does Ratna help her colleagues during lunch hours, and what does this show about her approach to listening?
Ratna, a senior clerk in the author’s office in Mumbai, spent her lunch hours talking with different colleagues. Many people shared their personal problems and worries with her. Ratna did not try to solve their problems or give advice. She simply listened to them with sympathy and without judgement. She believed that sharing worries with someone trustworthy reduces a person’s burden. Her patient listening and keeping others’ secrets showed her kindness, understanding and respect for people’s feelings.
4. What lesson about love, kindness and rest does the author convey through the horegallu and the actions of her grandfather and Ratna?
Through the horegallu, the author conveys that everyone carries different kinds of burdens in life and needs moments of rest and support. The grandfather and Ratna acted like human horegallus by listening to people’s worries and giving them emotional support. They did not solve others’ problems but helped them regain confidence and strength. The author shows that kindness, empathy and a willingness to listen are valuable forms of social service. A small act of caring can help people continue their journey with renewed hope.>