The Vendor of Sweets Chapter 4 Quiz

Table of Contents

Summary of Chapter 4 – The Vendor of Sweets

Jagan and his son, Mali, do not speak much at home, but Jagan is relieved that Mali is not being forced to return to college. Jagan believes Mali is serving society by writing literature, which aligns with his own lifelong admiration for Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of service. However, he remains unsure about what kind of book Mali is writing—whether it is poetry, fiction, or philosophy—and in which language. Despite his curiosity, Jagan hesitates to ask Mali directly.

As September passes, Jagan has no clue whether Mali has finished or sent his book manuscript. One day, his cousin visits his sweet shop and notices that Jagan looks worried. Jagan inquires if the cousin has seen Mali, but when the cousin encourages Jagan to talk to his son directly, Jagan refuses, fearing he may upset Mali. The cousin points out that avoiding conversations only widens the gap between them.

Realizing that he last spoke to Mali three months ago, Jagan asks his cousin to secretly find out about Mali’s whereabouts and book plans. The cousin, eager for a task, agrees. After four days, he returns with surprising news—Mali wants to go to America to study writing. Jagan, deeply patriotic, is shocked and questions the necessity of going abroad, arguing that great writers like Valmiki did not leave India to write.

Jagan further worries about America’s lifestyle, fearing its culture of eating beef, drinking alcohol, and shameless behavior. However, he also acknowledges that not all stereotypes may be true. The real shock comes when the cousin reveals that Mali has already taken steps to leave. He has been working at the Town Public Library, applied for his passport in Madras, and even stolen ₹10,000 from Jagan’s savings for travel expenses.

Though Jagan admires Mali’s determination, he feels helpless. He asks if Mali needs financial support, but the cousin says Mali has already arranged everything. That night, when Jagan checks his money stash and finds it short, he is not only disappointed but also scared to confront Mali, as if he were the thief himself.

Jagan and Mali live under the same roof but barely speak to each other.
Jagan believes literature is a noble service to humanity.
His admiration for Gandhi’s ideals influences his thinking.
He wonders about Mali’s book but hesitates to ask him.
Jagan avoids confrontation, fearing he might upset his son.
The cousin observes Jagan’s stress and encourages him to talk to Mali.
Jagan last spoke to Mali over three months ago.
The cousin agrees to find out about Mali’s plans in secret.
Mali shocks Jagan with his decision to study writing in America.
Jagan argues that great Indian writers never went abroad to learn.
He fears American culture and its influence on Mali.
Mali has been secretly working at the library and planning his journey.
Jagan is stunned to learn that Mali stole ₹10,000 for travel expenses.
He admires Mali’s independence but feels powerless to stop him.
Jagan freezes in fear when he hears Mali return home at night.