NOVEMBER (SECOND) 2008

NO. 747

STORIES
THE LUCKY ONE DANGEROUS FORMULA REPENTANCE THE SECRET OF A NOTE A TRANSFORMED JUMPY TOMYS FEAR MIRCHI BOMB CHIMPOO WAS KIDNAPPED PICNIC A SMART LESSON REWARD OF BRAVERY 60 46 51 55 28 32 38 22 4 11 16

AND THE CLOUD SAID ESCAPE OF BONY THE GANG OF PICKPOCKETS CHEEKU GRANDPA AND TIGERS 70 8 20 44 79 36 64 76 CHUCHUS DIVIDER 67

PICTURE STORIES

YOUR PAGE
WHO AM I? FROM YOUNG READERS IT IS FUNTIME CHAMPAK CHEKERS 41

Editor, Publisher & Printer : Paresh Nath

EDITORAL, ADVERTISEMENT & PUBLICATION OFFICE: Delhi Press Building, E-3, Jhandewala Estate, Rani Jhansi Marg, New Delhi- 110055. Phone: 41398888, 23529557-62. Fax: 91-11-23625020. Printed at Delhi Press Samachar Patra Pte. Ltd. A- 36, Sahibabad, Ghaziabad and Delhi Press, E- 3, Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi- 110055 and published on behalf of Delhi Press Patra Prakashan Pte. Ltd. from E- 3, Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi - 110055. THIS COPY IS SOLD ON THE CONDITION THAT JURISDICTION FOR ALL DISPUTES CONCERNING SALE, SUBSCRIPTION AND PUBLISHED MATTER WILL BE IN COURTS/ FORUMS/ TRIBUNALS AT DELHI AND IT WILL NOT BE EXPORTED OUT OF INDIA WITHOUT EXPRESS PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHERS. THE PUBLISHERS RETAIN RIGHT TO STOP ANY UNAUTHORISED EXPORT AND CLAIM DAMAGES. Title registered with Govt of India as trade mark. Cheeku feature is registered with the Govt. Contents must not be reproduced in any manner without permission. The names of the characters used in all fiction and semi-fiction articles are fictitious. Self-addressed stamped envelopes must be enclosed with all manuscripts otherwise the rejected material will not be returned. Rates Inland: Single copy Rs 15. 1 year Rs 300, 2 years Rs 550, 3 years Rs 800, in India. Air surcharge extra in the following towns (75 P per copy), Silchar, Dibrugarh Agartala, Tezpur and Akaras. In Foreign Air Mail, for 1 year 35 $, for 2 years 55 $, for 3 years 75 $. Subscription should be remitted through money orders/bank drafts and cheques drawn in favour of Delhi Prakashan Vitran Pte. Ltd at E-3 Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi- 55. Vpps not accepted.

NOVEMBER (SECOND) 2008

NO. 747

STORIES
THE LUCKY ONE DANGEROUS FORMULA REPENTANCE THE SECRET OF A NOTE A TRANSFORMED JUMPY TOMYS FEAR MIRCHI BOMB CHIMPOO WAS KIDNAPPED PICNIC A SMART LESSON REWARD OF BRAVERY 60 46 51 55 28 32 38 22 4 11 16

AND THE CLOUD SAID ESCAPE OF BONY THE GANG OF PICKPOCKETS CHEEKU GRANDPA AND TIGERS 70 8 20 44 79 36 64 76 CHUCHUS DIVIDER 67

PICTURE STORIES

YOUR PAGE
WHO AM I? FROM YOUNG READERS IT IS FUNTIME CHAMPAK CHEKERS 41

Editor, Publisher & Printer : Paresh Nath

EDITORAL, ADVERTISEMENT & PUBLICATION OFFICE: Delhi Press Building, E-3, Jhandewala Estate, Rani Jhansi Marg, New Delhi- 110055. Phone: 41398888, 23529557-62. Fax: 91-11-23625020. Printed at Delhi Press Samachar Patra Pte. Ltd. A- 36, Sahibabad, Ghaziabad and Delhi Press, E- 3, Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi- 110055 and published on behalf of Delhi Press Patra Prakashan Pte. Ltd. from E- 3, Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi - 110055. THIS COPY IS SOLD ON THE CONDITION THAT JURISDICTION FOR ALL DISPUTES CONCERNING SALE, SUBSCRIPTION AND PUBLISHED MATTER WILL BE IN COURTS/ FORUMS/ TRIBUNALS AT DELHI AND IT WILL NOT BE EXPORTED OUT OF INDIA WITHOUT EXPRESS PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHERS. THE PUBLISHERS RETAIN RIGHT TO STOP ANY UNAUTHORISED EXPORT AND CLAIM DAMAGES. Title registered with Govt of India as trade mark. Cheeku feature is registered with the Govt. Contents must not be reproduced in any manner without permission. The names of the characters used in all fiction and semi-fiction articles are fictitious. Self-addressed stamped envelopes must be enclosed with all manuscripts otherwise the rejected material will not be returned. Rates Inland: Single copy Rs 15. 1 year Rs 300, 2 years Rs 550, 3 years Rs 800, in India. Air surcharge extra in the following towns (75 P per copy), Silchar, Dibrugarh Agartala, Tezpur and Akaras. In Foreign Air Mail, for 1 year 35 $, for 2 years 55 $, for 3 years 75 $. Subscription should be remitted through money orders/bank drafts and cheques drawn in favour of Delhi Prakashan Vitran Pte. Ltd at E-3 Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi- 55. Vpps not accepted.

The Lucky One

by Neelam Chandra

HINKI AND Minki Vixen were neighbours in Champakvan. Their fathers worked in the same office. But their social canditions were poles apart. Chinki's father went to office on a bicycle, whereas Minki's father had a car. Chinki lived in a small 2-room house but Minki had a huge bungalow. Minki's mother wore the latest fashion clothes and jewellery but Chinki's mother always remained simple in cotton clothes. Sure enough this had its influence on children too. Minki had the latest toys which increased in numbers everyday. They came from America and England. Clothes were in abundance with Minki. Chinki had just a doll that too with a broken leg. The second thing she had was a bat and ball. Seeing the abundance with which Minki lived, Chinki felt
Champak

The Lucky One

by Neelam Chandra

HINKI AND Minki Vixen were neighbours in Champakvan. Their fathers worked in the same office. But their social canditions were poles apart. Chinki's father went to office on a bicycle, whereas Minki's father had a car. Chinki lived in a small 2-room house but Minki had a huge bungalow. Minki's mother wore the latest fashion clothes and jewellery but Chinki's mother always remained simple in cotton clothes. Sure enough this had its influence on children too. Minki had the latest toys which increased in numbers everyday. They came from America and England. Clothes were in abundance with Minki. Chinki had just a doll that too with a broken leg. The second thing she had was a bat and ball. Seeing the abundance with which Minki lived, Chinki felt
Champak

sad and many times she was jealous too. One day, Minki's father got another new doll for her whose hands and legs were mouldable. The doll had a variety of dresses, shoes, purse and earrings. Minki showed the doll to Chinki but when Chinki tried to touch it, Minki shrugged her off. When Chinki was leaving in disappointment she said, Though you do not have any toys, you come and spoil my toys. Chinki's tears rolled down. When she reached home, she sat in

November (Second) 2008

sad and many times she was jealous too. One day, Minki's father got another new doll for her whose hands and legs were mouldable. The doll had a variety of dresses, shoes, purse and earrings. Minki showed the doll to Chinki but when Chinki tried to touch it, Minki shrugged her off. When Chinki was leaving in disappointment she said, Though you do not have any toys, you come and spoil my toys. Chinki's tears rolled down. When she reached home, she sat in

November (Second) 2008

a corner and wept profusely. When mother came and asked her the reason of her sadness, Chinki answered angrily, You people don't love me at all. Minki's parents get such good things for her. Why don't I have anything, mother? Mother explained that her father just earns as much that he can afford her studies and take care of their rations. Nothing more than that. Chinki was very sad that day. She asked her mother, When my papa does the same job, why does not he earn as much as Minkis father? Mother saw to her in compassion and said, One should never try to compare with other. Whatever one has he/she should live in content.

Champak

a corner and wept profusely. When mother came and asked her the reason of her sadness, Chinki answered angrily, You people don't love me at all. Minki's parents get such good things for her. Why don't I have anything, mother? Mother explained that her father just earns as much that he can afford her studies and take care of their rations. Nothing more than that. Chinki was very sad that day. She asked her mother, When my papa does the same job, why does not he earn as much as Minkis father? Mother saw to her in compassion and said, One should never try to compare with other. Whatever one has he/she should live in content.

Champak

I can only say that your papa is honest and both of us love you deeply and we always try to give you the precious things. Chinki did not ask anything, but she was disappointed in her heart. Since that day, she never went to Minki's house. One day, when Minki came to show her a new shirt, Chinki did not talk much to her.

nother day, when Chinki was returning from school she saw that Appu Elephant-Police Inspector of Champakvan-- was standing in front of Minki's house with his full team. The Inspector Gainda Ram had arrested Minki's father and was taking him towards the police station. Minki was standing behind and crying loudly. Her mother was also standing nervously. Chinki quickly ran to her mother and told her that Minki's father was caught taking bribe from Lambu Giraffe. He will be put behind bars and he may lose his job too. Chinki now understood where does Minki get all the good clothes from. Today, she was very proud of her father. She understood that she was richer and luckier than Minki. She knew that today Minki would need her so she went to her house to be at her side.

How do the rats and the mice differ?

Rats and mice are close relatives. Both have sharp teeth, pointed noses, rather long tails. The difference lies in their size. A rat is usually much bigger than a mouse, and much more dangerous too.
November (Second) 2008 7

I can only say that your papa is honest and both of us love you deeply and we always try to give you the precious things. Chinki did not ask anything, but she was disappointed in her heart. Since that day, she never went to Minki's house. One day, when Minki came to show her a new shirt, Chinki did not talk much to her.

nother day, when Chinki was returning from school she saw that Appu Elephant-Police Inspector of Champakvan-- was standing in front of Minki's house with his full team. The Inspector Gainda Ram had arrested Minki's father and was taking him towards the police station. Minki was standing behind and crying loudly. Her mother was also standing nervously. Chinki quickly ran to her mother and told her that Minki's father was caught taking bribe from Lambu Giraffe. He will be put behind bars and he may lose his job too. Chinki now understood where does Minki get all the good clothes from. Today, she was very proud of her father. She understood that she was richer and luckier than Minki. She knew that today Minki would need her so she went to her house to be at her side.

How do the rats and the mice differ?

Rats and mice are close relatives. Both have sharp teeth, pointed noses, rather long tails. The difference lies in their size. A rat is usually much bigger than a mouse, and much more dangerous too.
November (Second) 2008 7

Who Am I ?

1. I can make a day at night, So I can make stars in sky. No Diwali is complete, Without my presence. 2. Black mouth, red body, Eats paper of everybody. Come evening, the papers are ready, to be taken out. Whom am I?

3. Neithter I am a bird nor human, Without me the earth looks barren. I am a home for birds, And provide fruits for all. 4. Beautiful is his body and shape, But travel without feet. He is blue eyed of all, He can be acquired only by hard work.

ou Know? How Much Do Yo

1. Who founded Jaipur city? (a) Shamsuddin Shah. (b) Sawai Jai Singh. (c) Shershah Suri. (d) Ahmed Shah.

2.

Where are the Ajanta Caves situated? (a) Jahanabad. (c) Murshidabad. (b) Sikandrabad. (d) Aurangabad. Silk Industry began in which country? (a) Sweden. (c) China. (b) India. (d) Pakistan.

3.

4.

Which State has Hyderabad as its Capital? (a) Assam. (c) Andhra Pradesh. (b) Uttar Pradesh. (d) Meghalaya. Which is the national river of India? (a) Yamuna. (c) Kosi. (b) Gandak. (d) Ganga.

?
Champak

5.

Answers
Who Am I? : (1) Fire crakers. (2) Letter box. (3) Tree. (4) Rupee coin. How Much Do You Know? : (1) b, (2) d, (3) c, (4) c, (5) d. 8

Who Am I ?

1. I can make a day at night, So I can make stars in sky. No Diwali is complete, Without my presence. 2. Black mouth, red body, Eats paper of everybody. Come evening, the papers are ready, to be taken out. Whom am I?

3. Neithter I am a bird nor human, Without me the earth looks barren. I am a home for birds, And provide fruits for all. 4. Beautiful is his body and shape, But travel without feet. He is blue eyed of all, He can be acquired only by hard work.

ou Know? How Much Do Yo

1. Who founded Jaipur city? (a) Shamsuddin Shah. (b) Sawai Jai Singh. (c) Shershah Suri. (d) Ahmed Shah.

2.

Where are the Ajanta Caves situated? (a) Jahanabad. (c) Murshidabad. (b) Sikandrabad. (d) Aurangabad. Silk Industry began in which country? (a) Sweden. (c) China. (b) India. (d) Pakistan.

3.

4.

Which State has Hyderabad as its Capital? (a) Assam. (c) Andhra Pradesh. (b) Uttar Pradesh. (d) Meghalaya. Which is the national river of India? (a) Yamuna. (c) Kosi. (b) Gandak. (d) Ganga.

?
Champak

5.

Answers
Who Am I? : (1) Fire crakers. (2) Letter box. (3) Tree. (4) Rupee coin. How Much Do You Know? : (1) b, (2) d, (3) c, (4) c, (5) d. 8

There are some mistakes in picture 2. Find out how many mistakes are there. Send your answers through SMS. First type the keyword DPBVB. Then leave one space and then type the total number of mistakes. For example, DPBVB 7, as shown in the photo of mobile. Then send the SMS on 57007. You may send as many SMS as you like. Any 5 correct respondents will be asked to send their complete address. They will be given a prize of Rs. 100 each. Your answers should reach us by 5 December, 2008.

DPBVB 7

Find out the mistakes : Win prize-40

There are some mistakes in picture 2. Find out how many mistakes are there. Send your answers through SMS. First type the keyword DPBVB. Then leave one space and then type the total number of mistakes. For example, DPBVB 7, as shown in the photo of mobile. Then send the SMS on 57007. You may send as many SMS as you like. Any 5 correct respondents will be asked to send their complete address. They will be given a prize of Rs. 100 each. Your answers should reach us by 5 December, 2008.

DPBVB 7

Find out the mistakes : Win prize-40

ROFESSOR MANTU Rabbit was a well known scientist. He had a habit for surprising Champakvan animals by coming out with new discoveries. Mantu's nephew Cheeku Rabbit too was exceptional in science in school. Soon after school whenever he was free, Cheeku would go to his uncle's laboratory.

Dang er ous For mula

by Anil Satija

November (Second) 2008

11

ROFESSOR MANTU Rabbit was a well known scientist. He had a habit for surprising Champakvan animals by coming out with new discoveries. Mantu's nephew Cheeku Rabbit too was exceptional in science in school. Soon after school whenever he was free, Cheeku would go to his uncle's laboratory.

Dang er ous For mula

by Anil Satija

November (Second) 2008

11

What are you working on these days, uncle? Cheeku asked. It is a top secret that is known only to me and the King Sher Singh. But as you are my favourite, so I would tell you. Saying this, Mantu took him close to a strange machine looking like a portable TV. This is the new Rex-ray machine. As the Rexray machines find out about the disease in a patient by penetrating inside the body, so too the moment Rex-rays fall on anyone he would vanish in 10 minutes. Wonderful, uncle. You are great. But have you ever thought that if this machine gets into the hands of a criminal, what a big disaster it can be. Look Cheeku, discoveries are made by scientists only for curiosity. Then why should this machine fall into the hands of a criminal? I will hand it over to the king when it is completed. Then he can do whatever he likes. Come on, don't worry. Let me take you for an ice-cream that too made in my laboratory. Wow, ice-cream!
12 Champak

What are you working on these days, uncle? Cheeku asked. It is a top secret that is known only to me and the King Sher Singh. But as you are my favourite, so I would tell you. Saying this, Mantu took him close to a strange machine looking like a portable TV. This is the new Rex-ray machine. As the Rexray machines find out about the disease in a patient by penetrating inside the body, so too the moment Rex-rays fall on anyone he would vanish in 10 minutes. Wonderful, uncle. You are great. But have you ever thought that if this machine gets into the hands of a criminal, what a big disaster it can be. Look Cheeku, discoveries are made by scientists only for curiosity. Then why should this machine fall into the hands of a criminal? I will hand it over to the king when it is completed. Then he can do whatever he likes. Come on, don't worry. Let me take you for an ice-cream that too made in my laboratory. Wow, ice-cream!
12 Champak

It was 10 oclock at night. Mantu had finished his meal and was preparing to go to bed. Suddenly, the call bell rang. Mantu opened the door. To his surprise Rocky Wolf and Baddy Jackal were standing. Both pushed their way inside and shut the door. Pointing the revolver on him Rocky said, We want your invisible making machine, Professor. What... But how did you know about it? We had deputed Lalu Monkey for this work. Lalu, my servant? Yes, that faithful servant had installed microtransmitters at various places in your house. We could listen to all your talks through them. But we came to know about this when you disclosed it to your dear nephew. Now, stop talking and hand us over the Rex-ray machine or you may lose your life. Suddenly, the phone bell rang. Baddy threatened, Pick up the phone, Professor and finish it off. If you act smart, we will shoot you. Hello. I am Mantu speaking. Yes, Uncle, I am Cheeku speaking. I was doing my homework and have got stuck on a difficult sum. That is why I rang you up.
November (Second) 2008 13

It was 10 oclock at night. Mantu had finished his meal and was preparing to go to bed. Suddenly, the call bell rang. Mantu opened the door. To his surprise Rocky Wolf and Baddy Jackal were standing. Both pushed their way inside and shut the door. Pointing the revolver on him Rocky said, We want your invisible making machine, Professor. What... But how did you know about it? We had deputed Lalu Monkey for this work. Lalu, my servant? Yes, that faithful servant had installed microtransmitters at various places in your house. We could listen to all your talks through them. But we came to know about this when you disclosed it to your dear nephew. Now, stop talking and hand us over the Rex-ray machine or you may lose your life. Suddenly, the phone bell rang. Baddy threatened, Pick up the phone, Professor and finish it off. If you act smart, we will shoot you. Hello. I am Mantu speaking. Yes, Uncle, I am Cheeku speaking. I was doing my homework and have got stuck on a difficult sum. That is why I rang you up.
November (Second) 2008 13

Yes, yes, ask quickly. Cheeku asked the problem. You will find the answer to the problem in the same book that I gifted you on your birthday. Gift?.Birthday?.Book? The same under whose red cover there is a sign of a cross. Look in that. Ok, now I hang up, and Mantu hung up the phone. On the other hand Cheeku was confused. 'Uncle did not give any book on my birthday. Then why did he tell lies? Red cover, cross under the skull these are all danger signs. Uncle is surely in trouble.' Surely, somebody must have got after him to get the machine. His life must be in danger. I must quickly inform the police. Cheeku dialled at the Police Station and informed Inspector Jumbo about it. I too must go there, Cheeku thought and reached Mantu's house with his pellet-bow. Jumbo with his force had already cordoned Mantu's house. Then he announced on the loud speaker. I am Inpsector Jumbo speaking. All those inside the house should come out with their hands up. You are surrounded by the police. All routes to escape are closed. Oh! How has the police reached here? Baddy asked. They were telling Mantu to tell them how to operate the machine. It is surely the mischief of the professor. I will shoot him, Rocky said wildly. No Rocky, now he will only get us out of the
14 Champak

Yes, yes, ask quickly. Cheeku asked the problem. You will find the answer to the problem in the same book that I gifted you on your birthday. Gift?.Birthday?.Book? The same under whose red cover there is a sign of a cross. Look in that. Ok, now I hang up, and Mantu hung up the phone. On the other hand Cheeku was confused. 'Uncle did not give any book on my birthday. Then why did he tell lies? Red cover, cross under the skull these are all danger signs. Uncle is surely in trouble.' Surely, somebody must have got after him to get the machine. His life must be in danger. I must quickly inform the police. Cheeku dialled at the Police Station and informed Inspector Jumbo about it. I too must go there, Cheeku thought and reached Mantu's house with his pellet-bow. Jumbo with his force had already cordoned Mantu's house. Then he announced on the loud speaker. I am Inpsector Jumbo speaking. All those inside the house should come out with their hands up. You are surrounded by the police. All routes to escape are closed. Oh! How has the police reached here? Baddy asked. They were telling Mantu to tell them how to operate the machine. It is surely the mischief of the professor. I will shoot him, Rocky said wildly. No Rocky, now he will only get us out of the
14 Champak

police clutches with the machine. Rocky pointed the revolver on Mantu's head. Baddy picked up the machine and all walked out of the door. Threatening the police Rocky said, Allow us along with the machine and Mantu to go Jumbo, or I will shoot him. A helpless Jumbo had to ask his men to drop the guns. Providing cover to the Professor, Rocky and Baddy were moving slowly outwards.

heeku thought something and hid behind the heavy-bodied Jumbo. He aimed with his pellet bow with a marble and shot at Rocky's hand. Rocky shouted with pain and the revolver fell from his hand. Before Baddy could think anything, Mantu suddenly picked up his revolver and aimed at both of them. The tables had turned. Jumbo too quickly arrested the criminals. Giving kudos to the 2 Manku said, Good Cheeku, your small pellet bow proved much faster than my revolver. What a good shot it was? Mantu also took his nephew in his arms. Uncle, I had already warned you not to keep this machine with you. There is still time, you should destroy this machine. Cheeku is right, professor, said Jumbo. Ok. I will soon ask King Sher Singh and destroy the formula, Mantu said. Everyone heaved a sigh of relief.
November (Second) 2008 15

police clutches with the machine. Rocky pointed the revolver on Mantu's head. Baddy picked up the machine and all walked out of the door. Threatening the police Rocky said, Allow us along with the machine and Mantu to go Jumbo, or I will shoot him. A helpless Jumbo had to ask his men to drop the guns. Providing cover to the Professor, Rocky and Baddy were moving slowly outwards.

heeku thought something and hid behind the heavy-bodied Jumbo. He aimed with his pellet bow with a marble and shot at Rocky's hand. Rocky shouted with pain and the revolver fell from his hand. Before Baddy could think anything, Mantu suddenly picked up his revolver and aimed at both of them. The tables had turned. Jumbo too quickly arrested the criminals. Giving kudos to the 2 Manku said, Good Cheeku, your small pellet bow proved much faster than my revolver. What a good shot it was? Mantu also took his nephew in his arms. Uncle, I had already warned you not to keep this machine with you. There is still time, you should destroy this machine. Cheeku is right, professor, said Jumbo. Ok. I will soon ask King Sher Singh and destroy the formula, Mantu said. Everyone heaved a sigh of relief.
November (Second) 2008 15

Repentance
by Vandana Gupta

K
16

AKU CROW lived on a tree. Since ages his ancestors had made their abode on the blackberry tree. The tree had almost been acquired by them. Kaku would bully any bird that came to perch on the tree, "This tree is mine. Anyone who would live here or eat its fruit, will have to pay for staying here." In fact, Kaku was a very big shirker. The tree had blackberry only some times of the year and so Kaku took food from the other birds living on the
Champak

Repentance
by Vandana Gupta

K
16

AKU CROW lived on a tree. Since ages his ancestors had made their abode on the blackberry tree. The tree had almost been acquired by them. Kaku would bully any bird that came to perch on the tree, "This tree is mine. Anyone who would live here or eat its fruit, will have to pay for staying here." In fact, Kaku was a very big shirker. The tree had blackberry only some times of the year and so Kaku took food from the other birds living on the
Champak

tree, as rent for living there. Calling a woodpecker, Kaku got holes dug in the tree in which birds found a cosy shelter. Slowly, Kaku's greed increased. He thought, Why not increase the tenants. This would not only increase my income but would also solve the problem of food for future generations. After all, we are the masters of the tree and it will be a shame if our children work to survive. He again called the woodpecker and got made some more holes in the tree. Then he rented all the holes to birds and squirrels. As the tenants increased, Kaku bloated with pride for being the master of the tree. His modesty too vanished. He behaved rude to the birds and squirrels who could not pay rent in time. As his children too were idle, so they would trouble babies of other birds

November (Second) 2008

17

tree, as rent for living there. Calling a woodpecker, Kaku got holes dug in the tree in which birds found a cosy shelter. Slowly, Kaku's greed increased. He thought, Why not increase the tenants. This would not only increase my income but would also solve the problem of food for future generations. After all, we are the masters of the tree and it will be a shame if our children work to survive. He again called the woodpecker and got made some more holes in the tree. Then he rented all the holes to birds and squirrels. As the tenants increased, Kaku bloated with pride for being the master of the tree. His modesty too vanished. He behaved rude to the birds and squirrels who could not pay rent in time. As his children too were idle, so they would trouble babies of other birds

November (Second) 2008

17

and bully them. Neighbours close to one another would often fight. If any squirrel passed from in front of a parrots nest, he would feel offended. The squirrel also would find the cry of baby birds irritating. With many holes in the tree, the fibres of the trunk got destroyed. This also stopped the roots from carrying water and minerals to the top of the tree. Slowly, the upper part of the tree started withering. Fruits did not grow there any more and the leaves started falling. The tenants left the tree in dearth of leaves and fruits, the only reason for which they stayed there. There were no leaves to protect them from sunlight, wind, rain and enemies. Slowly and gradually, the entire tree withered. As a result of greed, Kaku had to do away with sweet fruits of the tree. Now he had nothing to himself but repentance.
18 Champak

and bully them. Neighbours close to one another would often fight. If any squirrel passed from in front of a parrots nest, he would feel offended. The squirrel also would find the cry of baby birds irritating. With many holes in the tree, the fibres of the trunk got destroyed. This also stopped the roots from carrying water and minerals to the top of the tree. Slowly, the upper part of the tree started withering. Fruits did not grow there any more and the leaves started falling. The tenants left the tree in dearth of leaves and fruits, the only reason for which they stayed there. There were no leaves to protect them from sunlight, wind, rain and enemies. Slowly and gradually, the entire tree withered. As a result of greed, Kaku had to do away with sweet fruits of the tree. Now he had nothing to himself but repentance.
18 Champak

Bomb in Eggs
Come, let us enjoy Teena Hens eggs today as well, said Sandu Monkey to Fandu Monkey. Fandu licked his lips and said, Yes, we had great fun yersterday. Both of them set out towards Teenas house. It was around afternoon when Teena had gone out for shopping. Sandu and Fandu entered Teenas house and began eating eggs. When they were full, they smashed some eggs and walked out of the house. When Teena returned home, she began crying, What should I do now? Around the same time Rocky Rabbit passed through that way. What happened, Teena? asked Rocky. It is sad story. For the past 2 days whenever I go out to the market, Sandu and Fandu eat away my eggs, said Teena. Rocky thought for a while and said, Do not worry Teena, I have an idea. The next day Rocky arrived at Teenas house early in the morning. He was carrying a box in his hands. Teena

Bomb in Eggs
Come, let us enjoy Teena Hens eggs today as well, said Sandu Monkey to Fandu Monkey. Fandu licked his lips and said, Yes, we had great fun yersterday. Both of them set out towards Teenas house. It was around afternoon when Teena had gone out for shopping. Sandu and Fandu entered Teenas house and began eating eggs. When they were full, they smashed some eggs and walked out of the house. When Teena returned home, she began crying, What should I do now? Around the same time Rocky Rabbit passed through that way. What happened, Teena? asked Rocky. It is sad story. For the past 2 days whenever I go out to the market, Sandu and Fandu eat away my eggs, said Teena. Rocky thought for a while and said, Do not worry Teena, I have an idea. The next day Rocky arrived at Teenas house early in the morning. He was carrying a box in his hands. Teena

was surprised when Rocky opened the box for her . Wow! So many eggs? Teena almost shouted. Rocky smiled and said, These are not eggs. Then what are they? asked Teena. This you will know later, said Rocky. He placed those eggs in the house and they watched it from hiding. Little later, Sandu and Fandu came over. On finding everything clear they entered the house. They quickly popped in 2-3 eggs and then there were bang...bang...bang, loud sounds. Actually, Rocky had placed small bombs in the eggs shells, which exploded inside mouths. Sandu and Fandu ran as fast as they could.
---Y. Reddy

Unscramble the words

Scrambled words OPCELIHOTR LUINQTA MGEBLIU JLUSTE IUNFG
NRIO

Clue A means of transport A unit of weight A European country A river of India The plants that lock green pigment An element of the red pigment of the blood.

Answers
1. Helicopter. 2. Quintal. 3. Belgium. 4. Sutlej, 5. Fungi. 6. Iron.
----Anshu, Meerut

was surprised when Rocky opened the box for her . Wow! So many eggs? Teena almost shouted. Rocky smiled and said, These are not eggs. Then what are they? asked Teena. This you will know later, said Rocky. He placed those eggs in the house and they watched it from hiding. Little later, Sandu and Fandu came over. On finding everything clear they entered the house. They quickly popped in 2-3 eggs and then there were bang...bang...bang, loud sounds. Actually, Rocky had placed small bombs in the eggs shells, which exploded inside mouths. Sandu and Fandu ran as fast as they could.
---Y. Reddy

Unscramble the words

Scrambled words OPCELIHOTR LUINQTA MGEBLIU JLUSTE IUNFG
NRIO

Clue A means of transport A unit of weight A European country A river of India The plants that lock green pigment An element of the red pigment of the blood.

Answers
1. Helicopter. 2. Quintal. 3. Belgium. 4. Sutlej, 5. Fungi. 6. Iron.
----Anshu, Meerut

T he Secr et of a Note
by Anil Satija

NJUM CAME out of his house with his pet dog Faido. Come on, Faido. It is a Sunday and let us go for a long morning walk. Both started walking on the footpath. Look Faido, Vikram uncle is standing there. Let us go and meet him. Vikram was a Police Inspector and a neighbour of Anjum. Hello, Vikram uncle. How are you in jeans today instead of uniform? We have just got a news that a dangerous smuggler J.K. is about to come here. I and other cops are standing here in plain clothes to nab him. Police is looking out for him since last 5 years. I will not leave him t o d a y, Vikram said. Best of luck, uncle. Can I be of any help?
Champak

22

T he Secr et of a Note
by Anil Satija

NJUM CAME out of his house with his pet dog Faido. Come on, Faido. It is a Sunday and let us go for a long morning walk. Both started walking on the footpath. Look Faido, Vikram uncle is standing there. Let us go and meet him. Vikram was a Police Inspector and a neighbour of Anjum. Hello, Vikram uncle. How are you in jeans today instead of uniform? We have just got a news that a dangerous smuggler J.K. is about to come here. I and other cops are standing here in plain clothes to nab him. Police is looking out for him since last 5 years. I will not leave him t o d a y, Vikram said. Best of luck, uncle. Can I be of any help?
Champak

22

Yes, sure. Keep your eyes open. Maybe you spot him, Vikram smiled. You are joking. Ok, I will leave. Anjum left with Faido. Tired, both went and sat at the temple steps. There were many beggars sitting on the road opposite the temple.

uddenly, a car stopped. A man came out of it, handed a hundred-rupee note to a blind beggar and then zipped past. Surprising! There are so many beggars sitting here but the man just gave money to one and that too a hundred-rupee note! It would have been better if he had distributed it among all. Something is wrong. I must note down his car number. Vikram uncle said, I must keep my eyes open, Anjum thought. Suddenly, the blind beggar got up and walked fast in another direction. Surprising! He is walking so fast. Is he at all blind? There is something fishy. Faido, let us follow him, Anjum said. They both quietly followed him. Shortly, the man entered a house. Anjum hid behind the window to listen. Roger has just sent a message. Inspector Vikram has put his men at Ring Road for J.K. sir. We will have to cancel today's deal or change the place. Look at this hundred-rupee note given by him. Good, let us inform J.K., sir about it and we should leave the place, They discussed the matter and came out after locking the room. Anjum came out from hiding. Oh, so the gang of J.K. has come to know about
November (Second) 2008 23

Yes, sure. Keep your eyes open. Maybe you spot him, Vikram smiled. You are joking. Ok, I will leave. Anjum left with Faido. Tired, both went and sat at the temple steps. There were many beggars sitting on the road opposite the temple.

uddenly, a car stopped. A man came out of it, handed a hundred-rupee note to a blind beggar and then zipped past. Surprising! There are so many beggars sitting here but the man just gave money to one and that too a hundred-rupee note! It would have been better if he had distributed it among all. Something is wrong. I must note down his car number. Vikram uncle said, I must keep my eyes open, Anjum thought. Suddenly, the blind beggar got up and walked fast in another direction. Surprising! He is walking so fast. Is he at all blind? There is something fishy. Faido, let us follow him, Anjum said. They both quietly followed him. Shortly, the man entered a house. Anjum hid behind the window to listen. Roger has just sent a message. Inspector Vikram has put his men at Ring Road for J.K. sir. We will have to cancel today's deal or change the place. Look at this hundred-rupee note given by him. Good, let us inform J.K., sir about it and we should leave the place, They discussed the matter and came out after locking the room. Anjum came out from hiding. Oh, so the gang of J.K. has come to know about
November (Second) 2008 23

Vikram uncles plan. I wish I also knew which other place has been decided for the deal. That note.? Anjum thought something and moved towards the window. The rogues have closed the window before leaving. Anjum pushed the window. He could open it. It has opened..good luck. The fools did not bolt it from inside. Come on, Faido, let us go inside the house. Both jumped inside through the window. Anjum started searching all the rooms. Suddenly, while opening a drawer of the dressing table, Anjum was left shell shocked at what he saw. This looks like the same hundred-rupee note with the message. Anjum turned the note all over to see it.

24

Champak

Vikram uncles plan. I wish I also knew which other place has been decided for the deal. That note.? Anjum thought something and moved towards the window. The rogues have closed the window before leaving. Anjum pushed the window. He could open it. It has opened..good luck. The fools did not bolt it from inside. Come on, Faido, let us go inside the house. Both jumped inside through the window. Anjum started searching all the rooms. Suddenly, while opening a drawer of the dressing table, Anjum was left shell shocked at what he saw. This looks like the same hundred-rupee note with the message. Anjum turned the note all over to see it.

24

Champak

Hum the changed place of the deal is also mentioned on it in minute letters along with the message. House number 12, M.G. Road, he murmured. Come on Faido, we must inform Vikram uncle quickly about it or these miscreants will never ever be caught. Faido wagged his tail for approval. Soon, both were running on the Ring Road. Handing over the note to Vikram, Anjum told him everything. Vikram said, You have done an excellent work, Anjum. In fact, we did not know that they kept a watch on all our activities.

ikram soon cordoned off the M.G. Road house. In no time J.K. and his associates were arrested with their possessions from the house. With the car number, Roger and the man striking the deal was also caught. Good Vikram, you did excellent spying, Vikram thanked Anjum, giving all the onus of success of nabbing J.K. smuggler to Anjum. Didn't you say that I must keep my eyes open, Anjum said and both had a hearty laugh.

Tongue Twister
1. She took a sip in the soup. 2. No sentence ends with because, because because is a conjunction. 3. Swan swam over the sea. Swim swan swim. Swan swam back again. Well swam swan.
---S. Latha, Chennai.
November (Second) 2008 25

Hum the changed place of the deal is also mentioned on it in minute letters along with the message. House number 12, M.G. Road, he murmured. Come on Faido, we must inform Vikram uncle quickly about it or these miscreants will never ever be caught. Faido wagged his tail for approval. Soon, both were running on the Ring Road. Handing over the note to Vikram, Anjum told him everything. Vikram said, You have done an excellent work, Anjum. In fact, we did not know that they kept a watch on all our activities.

ikram soon cordoned off the M.G. Road house. In no time J.K. and his associates were arrested with their possessions from the house. With the car number, Roger and the man striking the deal was also caught. Good Vikram, you did excellent spying, Vikram thanked Anjum, giving all the onus of success of nabbing J.K. smuggler to Anjum. Didn't you say that I must keep my eyes open, Anjum said and both had a hearty laugh.

Tongue Twister
1. She took a sip in the soup. 2. No sentence ends with because, because because is a conjunction. 3. Swan swam over the sea. Swim swan swim. Swan swam back again. Well swam swan.
---S. Latha, Chennai.
November (Second) 2008 25

Let us Know
Dolphin rests on the upper layer of water. At the regular in intervals, it comes out of water to breath oxygen.

Black Mumba is the fastest snake in the world.

Kangaroo can only move ahead. It cannot walk in reverse in backwards.

26

Champak

Let us Know
Dolphin rests on the upper layer of water. At the regular in intervals, it comes out of water to breath oxygen.

Black Mumba is the fastest snake in the world.

Kangaroo can only move ahead. It cannot walk in reverse in backwards.

26

Champak

A Transformed Jumpy

UMPY MONKEY was the only child of his parents. He was spoilt due to pampering by his parents. One day, when he returned from school, he was taken aback, seeing another child in the house.

by Hemant Kumar Yadav

Mother reminded, Son, he is your cousin who has just come from Sundervan today. He will stay with you. I have put his bed in your room. Jumpy went into his room angrily and threw
Champak

28

A Transformed Jumpy

UMPY MONKEY was the only child of his parents. He was spoilt due to pampering by his parents. One day, when he returned from school, he was taken aback, seeing another child in the house.

by Hemant Kumar Yadav

Mother reminded, Son, he is your cousin who has just come from Sundervan today. He will stay with you. I have put his bed in your room. Jumpy went into his room angrily and threw
Champak

28

the guests luggage outside. The cousin's whose name was Minky, was pertified at Jumpy's anger. What are you doing? Don't be so selfish. Minky is your brother and is homeless here. Where will he go? mother tried to explain Jumpy. He may go anywhere but I will not allow him in my room, Jumpy made it clear. Aunty, I will stay in any other room or in the verandah, Minky said. Jumpy did not like Minky at all. He did not even look at him. This way a week passed.

ne fine day, Jumpy thought of an idea to throw Minky out of the house. He quietly hid his mobile phone under Minkys bed in his absence. He thought that he would put the blame of theft on Minky. In fact, Minky had seen Jumpy hiding something under the bed. What has Jumpy hidden under my bed?' peeping under it, he got a shock. Thinking something, he took the mobile and handed it over to Jumpy's mother and told her everything. She understood why Jumpy had kept the mobile there. After some time, Jumpy started shouting loudly in his room, Mother, my mobile phone is missing. Somebody seems to have stolen it, and acting as if searching for it, went near Minky's bed. Mother immediately said, Here is your mobile, son. You had forgotten it. Minky gave it to me as he saw it.
29

November (Second) 2008

the guests luggage outside. The cousin's whose name was Minky, was pertified at Jumpy's anger. What are you doing? Don't be so selfish. Minky is your brother and is homeless here. Where will he go? mother tried to explain Jumpy. He may go anywhere but I will not allow him in my room, Jumpy made it clear. Aunty, I will stay in any other room or in the verandah, Minky said. Jumpy did not like Minky at all. He did not even look at him. This way a week passed.

ne fine day, Jumpy thought of an idea to throw Minky out of the house. He quietly hid his mobile phone under Minkys bed in his absence. He thought that he would put the blame of theft on Minky. In fact, Minky had seen Jumpy hiding something under the bed. What has Jumpy hidden under my bed?' peeping under it, he got a shock. Thinking something, he took the mobile and handed it over to Jumpy's mother and told her everything. She understood why Jumpy had kept the mobile there. After some time, Jumpy started shouting loudly in his room, Mother, my mobile phone is missing. Somebody seems to have stolen it, and acting as if searching for it, went near Minky's bed. Mother immediately said, Here is your mobile, son. You had forgotten it. Minky gave it to me as he saw it.
29

November (Second) 2008

Jumpy's idea did not work. He could not do anything. One day, Jumpy had inspection in his school. He was going to school on his bicycle, thinking something. He saw a cow sitting on the road. He rang his bicycle's bell. But she did not get up. He halted his cycle right in front of her. He could have taken his cycle from the side if he wanted. But suddenly, he started ringing the bell loudly. Irritated by the loud noise of the bell, the cow got up and ran to attack Jumpy.
30 Champak

Jumpy became nervous and fell upon a heap of cowdung. Minky suddenly arrived on the scene on his cycle. Seeing the bad state Jumpy was in, Minky asked him, How did you reach this state? How did you land up in the cowdung? Jumpy broke down, How will I go to school now? Seeing him crying Minky felt pity on him. He said, Don't cry. You can wear my clothes and go to school, and he took out his clothes and also gave him his bicycle. Then Jumpy washed himself with the tap water on the side of the road and wearing Minkys clothes went to school. Since that day Jumpy was transformed. He put Minkys bed in his room and loved him as his brother.

HA...HA...HA...
Teacher: Sohan, what makes you talk in the class? Sohan: No sir, I do not speak while sleeping.
Munna, Delhi.

*
Man (to the leader): Sir, why are you contesting the election from a new constituency this time? Leader: I have given away my constituency to my son-inlaw in dowry. Mohan, Dhera Dun.

*
Judge (to the convict): Why did you try to steal away the fans and bulbs from the compartment of the train? Convict: Sir, there was written on the wall, This property belongs to you... Hence I was trying to take my share in the property. Sohan, Hyderabad.
November (Second) 2008 31

ONY CAT realised that Chuchu Mouse was alone at home. Sensing an opportunity, she slipped into the house and latched the door. Chuchu noticed it. But acting with ignorance he said casually, Come aunty, you have come at the right time. Bony was surprised, 'Today Chuchu is behaving careless instead of showing caution. I hope there is nothing wrong,' she thought. So she too acted casually and said, What do you mean, Chuchu? Today is my birthday. Really? Yes, aunty. On this occasion I have made some tasty milk pudding. Taste and see, pointing at the bowl lying on the table, Chuchu said.

Tom y s Fear
by Om Prakash Kshatriya

Bony thought, 'Where can he run and go? I can eat him whenever I want. But first I must enjoy the pudding,' and she started eating it. On the other side, Chuchu was thinking of some way to escape. He went into the kitchen and gestured to his brother Chocho and came back to the dining room. So aunty, how does the pudding taste? Chuchu purposely asked teasing Bony. Do I get you some more? Knowing that there was no pudding left in the kitchen still, Chuchu asked.
32 Champak

All of a sudden noises of spoons clinking were heard from the kitchen. Shouting from there itself Chuchu said, Coming, brother. I know you do not speak while eating. I have understood, and Chuchu ran towards the kitchen. Then returning after some time, he said to Bony,

Tell me aunty, what can I get for you? Bony did not say anything. She was only thinking who could be in the kitchen. Then again the sound of spoons clinking was heard. Coming brother, Chuchu again ran towards the kitchen when Bony asked, Who is there in the kitchen, Chuchu? Putting his finger on his mouth, Chuchu
November (Second) 2008 33

gestured Bony to keep quiet. Whispering in her ear Chuchu said, I had invited Tomy Dog too for a feast like you. He loves milk pudding. He too is enjoying the feast in the kitchen. In fact it was Chuchus brother Chocho who was clinking spoons in the kitchen. Hearing about Tomy the pudding tasted sour to Bony. She thought, Chuchu was in her grip but it was the other way round. In fact, she was now feeling in peril. She just wanted to run away. She said, Chuchu, my grandmother is arriving today. I must leave. I will come some other time, and opening the door she ran home. Chuchu wanted the same. Both the brothers heaved a sigh of relief. Then having closed the door, they started eating their bit. The fear in their hearts proved help in disguise.

34

Champak

Colour the picture.

November (Second) 2008

35

HERE COMES CLOUDS. HERE COMES THE RAIN.

COOL BREEZE IS BLOWING.

IN SUCH A NICE WEATHER WHAT IS BITTOO DOING? LET US RING HIM UP AND ENQUIRE.

THEY BOTH RANG UP BITTOO. HEY YOU, YOU ARE SLEEPING? WHY ARE YOU NOT ENJOYING RAIN?

I ENJOY RAIN BY HAVING HOT PAKORAS.

36

Champak

BITTOO IS REALLY ENJOYING RAIN BY HAVING PAKORAS.

BUT WHO WILL FRY PAKORAS? MUMMY HAS GONE TO THE MARKET.

WE CAN ALSO FRY PAKORAS AND ENJOY.

THEN WE OURSELVES CAN FRY PAKORAS. IT IS QUITE EASY.

BOTH OF THEM TRIED TO FRY.

MY GOD, MY HANDS ARE BURNT, SO ARE THE PAKORAS. THE WHOLE ENJOYMENT HAS GONE FOR SIX.

HUMM... RAINS ARE A GREAT FUN BUT IT IS NOT EASY TO MAKE PAKORAS.

SO WHAT IF PAKORAS ARE BURNT. SELF-MADE THINGS ARE REALLY GREAT, IS NOT IT?

November (Second) 2008

37

UMIT STOPPED playing with his toys and said, Dadaji, tell me a story. Grandfather was having his afternoon siesta. He said, Son, I will tell you stories in the evening. Go and play just now. Let me take rest now. In the evening Sumit landed up to grandfather with his entire gang. The team consisted of his younger sister Sweety, younger brother Tony and 3-4 neighbouring children. All the children were happy that they would get to hear interesting stories from grandfather. Dadaji smiled seeing Sumit's gang. He said,

i h rc i M
38

b m Bu
R u ajk ma r

by

Champak

Today, I will tell you the story of Mirchi Bomb. Children promptly asked, Is it an interesting story dadaji? Interesting as well as informative, he insisted. Now listen carefully, and he started telling the story. Sunit's grandfather was a Defence Officer who had just retired 2-4 months earlier. He had lots of interesting experiences related to his profession to narrate. Once there were many terrorists hiding in a temple in the mountains. Soldiers were trying their best to take them out from there. The terrorists threatened from inside, Leave us alone. Don't mess with us or we will blast off the temple with a bomb. Our other brothers will also create havoc in the city. Hearing this, grandfather got an idea. He said to the soldiers, Don't be scared. We have the Mirchi grenade. The Defence Research and Development Organisation has just developed it. Come on, let us do its field trial today. Now there was nothing to stop them. Getting his senior's orders, an officer placed the Mirchi Bomb in the temple. As soon as it blew, the terrorists hauled up inside could not breathe properly. They started feeling itchy in their bodies. They were in a bad state sneezing and coughing.
November (Second) 2008 39

Somehow, they got out of the temple and were arrested by the soldiers. Dadaji, you and your soldiers too must have started sneezing with Mirchi Bomb, Sumit asked. Temple was affected badly with the bomb. It was not so effective outside. We also were affected but we did not budge from our work. Our company got an award for catching those terrorists. How was the Mirchi Bomb prepared? Sweety asked. This 81 mm caliber grenade was made by using red and black chilly, grandfather said. Tony said, Dadaji, this Mirchi Bomb is surely a very useful thing. You have told us a very interesting story, Dadaji. Please tell us each experiece of yours one by one everyday. And Sumit looked at his watch. It was 9 oclock. Good night dadaji, see you tomorrow, and the children left happily. Grandfather too retired to bed.
40 Champak

CHAMPAK CHEKERS-156
Rules of the Game

In this game a player has to reach the bomb and has to douse the fire. You can begin when you get 1 on your dice. If you do not have the dice, then pick up your

G G

Champak magazine. Now with your eyes

closed open the magazine, count and move boxes as per the last digit of the right hand side page number.
G

Before starting the game each player has to select a colour of his choice. While following the rules all throughout the game, any player who reaches first to the bomb, shall be the winner.

November (Second) 2008

49

Wait for 1 turn.

Move when you get 5. Move when you get 1.

S ag

Sta aga rt in.

Wait for 2 turns.

Start

Start again.

Move when you get 3.

Start gain.

Start again. Start again.

Wait for 1 turn.

Move when you get 3.

Start again.

Roshan Babu

Move when you get 5.

Teacher: Form a sentence using word ice? Student: Water is cold. Teacher: Where the word ice in the sentence. Student: Ice has already melted in water. * Tiny: My brother changes his clothes 5 times a day. Miny: Then he would be spending all his time in changing his clothes.

Tiny: It is not so. Actually, he is just 7 months old. * Akash: Mummy, look Papa is getting taller. Mummy: and how did you know that? Akash: See, Papas head is popping out of hair on his head. * Teacher: I am really surprised how you

attempted all the 5 questions wrong. Rajiv: Sir, I did not attempt all the 5 questions wrong. Two questions were attempted by my father and 2 by my mother. * Sunny: Why did you put your hand in my pocket? Kannu: I was taking out the pencil. Sunny: But you could have asked me. Kannu: I do not talk to strangers. * Bobby: I found 1 rupee on the road. Tom: Oh, that is mine, I lost a 1 rupee coin. Bobby: But what I found was 2 fifty paise coins. Tom: Yes I know, my 1 rupee coin broke in 2 fifty paise coins when it fell. *

Sanju: Which friend you were talking to outside the house for the last 2 hours? You could have sat inside and talked. Mannu: He had no time to sit. Teacher: Sonu, what is the relation between the moon and the earth? * Sonu: As a brother and sister. Teacher: How is that? Sonu: Because we call the earth as mother earth and the moon as Chanda Mama. Teacher: What is the difference in lightning in the clouds and electricity in the house. One of the Student: We do not have to pay for electricity to the clouds. *

N
Chimpoo Was Kidnapped
[Par t-I]
by Aniruddha Banhatti

OW Chimpoo had become a friend of Raju, Mintu, Nikhil, Julie and Lily. Every evening he went with them to the ground and brought back the ball when it went too far while playing cricket. One day, Raju said to Nikhil, Nikhil, for the last 2-3 days, I have been obsering a man, who watches our game intently, and specially looks at Chimpoo with a rare concentration. A man with a green cloth tied on his head. With a green headcloth? I do not think I have noticed any such person. Let us see today if he turns up, said Mintu. He has a scar of a wound right below his right eye and due to that he looks a bit terrifying. Raju supplied additional information. Okay, do not tell
Champak

46

the girls anything, Nikhil said a little snobbishly. Today, we will watch our watcher. And so it happened. While playing cricket the attention of Raju, Mintu and Nikhil was riveted on that mysterious man with a green cloth tied to his head, standing at the boundary of the ground and intently observing Chimpoo. When they started homewards after the game was over, the man was following them. When Raju and Mintu turned suddenly facing the man squarely, he stopped in his tracks and taking a U-turn, walked fast and disappeared. What mystery is this? The 3 of them were baffled. Chimpoos home was an open cage. Is this mysterious man on Chimpoos trail? Or is he the accomplice of the rogue who had kidnapped Raju and was now in police custody? Raju decided to tell his dad about this mystery man. After the dinner, Raju went to his daddy who was sitting on the swing and reading a magazine. Daddy, he called. Oh, what is it? his daddy asked, keeping the magazine away. What is the problem, Raju? Then Raju explained
November (Second) 2008 47

fully the problem of the mystery man. It is good that you told me at least now. Tomorrow, immediately I will make some arrangements. I know one police inspector quite well. You mean Bhambre uncle? Yes. We will tell him all this and ask him to investigate the matter. That night Raju could not sleep well. He had many bizarre dreams. Suddenly, he was awakened and thought that he heard a husky voice speaking something. He sat up in his bed. He threw away the cover and he went to the hall silently. Through the window, he looked out and saw the mystery man. A green cloth tied to his head and he was talking with Chimpoo in a husky voice. Raju shuddered. The hair on the nape of his neck stood on end. He turned and went to his dads room. Dad was sleeping calmly in the blue light of the night lamp. Daddy, Raju called him standing near the bed. Daddy turned on his side. Raju shook his shoulder and said.
48 Champak

Daddy, wake up. Um...er...who? Daddy sat up and rubbed his eyes. Daddy, Raju said, The same man has come in our garden. Near Chimpoos cage. Really? said Daddy, getting down from the bed, Come. Let us find out. Both of them came to the hall. There was no one near Chimpoos cage now. Are you sure you saw someone? Daddy asked. Yes dad, I am 100% sure. Come, let us go outside, said Daddy, and with a torch, both of them came near Chimpoos cage. Chimpoo was awake and looking intently at the gate. They strolled all around the garden. There was no one about. Daddy yawned and said, Raju, Chimpoo seems to be okay. We will investigate tomorrow. Let us get back to sleep. Okay dad, Raju said and both of them went back to sleep.

November (Second) 2008

49

Next morning both of them got up simultaneously and immediately went out in the garden. When they reached Chimpoos cage, they gasped. The cage was empty. Come, let us go to Bhambre uncle immediately, Daddy said, and brought the carkeys. When they reached their car garage behind the bungalow, the garage was empty and the lock was broken. Oh, what is this now? Dad said. Then he thought for a moment and said, Ok, Raju, you get dressed. I will also get dressed, and let us take a taxi and go to Bhambre.

hen both of them reached the police station, Bhambre was not there. So they went to his home. There, they left the taxi, and in Bhambre uncles jeep, went to the police station again. There, Daddy filed the complaint about the theft of the car and disappearance of Chimpoo. They came home in Bhambres jeep. Bhambres colleagues started checking the tracks of the tyres on the ground. I think there were 2 people. said Bhambre uncle observing the footprints. They must have pushed the car in neutral up to the gate and onto the road, before starting it. But Chimpoo, what could have happened to him? said Raju in a frightened tone. Do not be afraid, Sonny, said Inspector Bhambre. We will find out. But I still cannot fathom the motive behind stealing a monkey, of all the things. (To be continued.)
50 Champak

I
PICNIC
by Om Prakash Kshariya

T WAS a thick jungle. Having come for a picnic here, Sonu was excited. Wow! What a jungle. Today we will have real fun, he said shooting from his video-camera. Surely, the jungle is wonderful but people often lose their way in it. So go carefully and don't forget your way, Monu said. But nobody bothered to listen to him. Everyone was enjoying the jungle.

November (Second) 2008

51

Pointing to a hissing sound coming from in front, Rahul said, Look, there is a big snake. Oh yes, it is a very big one. Must be at least 6 feet. Suddenly, Vikas saw a jackal, Look, there is a jackal. Everyone looked. The jackal was looking amazing. Nearby, a rabbit was jumping and hopping. Enjoying the scenes of the wild, they did not know when they reached the heart of the jungle, a nice picnic spot. They all spread a sheet and laid down on it. They arranged their baggage and after having meals played games. Everyone was enjoying the picnic and shot beautiful and amazing scenes.

52

Champak

Then in the afternoon, they decided to leave the jungle and packed up their belongings. After walking for some time, Monu said, Look, we are out of the jungle. Sonu seconded, Oh yes, we are out. People unnecessarily believe that the jungle is a maze and that people forget their way. We have come out of it. Yes, Rahul said. But when he looked around carefully he was shocked. This is the same place where we picnicked, he said. Picking up his bag that was lying on the grass, Rahul said, Yes, friend. This means that we have come where we started from. Everyone was disgusted. We are actually lost in the maze, Sonu said, This time we will have to pass through carefully.

ll were extra careful. They were marking their way back this time. But lo, this time too they came back from where they started. Now they were all extremely worried. Sonu looked at the skies and said, We don't even know the direction. We would have come to know at least from where we came and where we have to go. Nothing can be made out here. All of them squatted and started discussing the way to get out from there. Not reaching any conclusion, they were feeling helpless when an idea struck Monu. He sprang up and said, Sonu, you had taken some shots of the jungle while coming. Yes, but so what?
November (Second) 2008 53

That will show us the way outside, Monu said to Sonu. Then taking his camera he started playing the CD. This is the way we came in, showing the way on the CD Monu said, Now we have come till here. This is the last scene in the camera. Look at the tree in front. There it is, Rahul was very happy. That means we came from in front of this tree. Yes, Monu said, we will play the reverse and walk on the same route. That is done, Rahul agreed and started walking on the path as shown on the CD. In no time, they were outside the jungle. All started jumping and dancing as they were out of the wild. Wow! What fun, Monu shouted. Today, the camera too has romanticised our picnic. Yes, if we did not have it, we would have been still picnicking just now. Sonu too seconded, Really, what a lovely picnic! And they all left for their homes, bidding bye to one another.

Find out the mistakes : Win prize-36

Selected 5 Candidates-K. Ajay, Coimbatore. Sai Kalyan, Hyderabad. Naveen Manohar Gunji, Bagalkot, (Karnataka) Dilip K. V., (Bangalore), Kashish, Rohtak (Haryana).

Champak English Sharp Eye-44

Selected 5 Candidates-Harsha Lohana, Jaipur. P. Vaikunth, Chennai. Abhijit, Rajendra Nagar (Andhra Pradesh). Sunil Kumar, Sheikhpura, (Bihar), Shikha., New Delhi.

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Champak

ATTY JACKAL took pleasure in making fool of other animals. He would cheat them and enjoy himself. One day, Meeku Monkey's mother went out to market. As it was very hot outside, she laid down under a tree to rest and fell off to sleep. Fatty, passing from there, thought of a prank. He picked up her mobile and pressed the message button. I have met with an accident. Reach public park with 500 rupees immediately, he typed and

A Smar t Lesson
by Indrajit Kaushik

November (Second) 2008

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