Why were the students awestruck and humbled? Explain in your own words.
The students were awestruck and humbled by the citation of Param Vir Chakra awardee Lance Naik Albert Ekka shared by their teacher.
Reading about his extraordinary bravery—charging enemy bunkers despite being seriously wounded, silencing machine guns, and continuing to fight until the objective was captured—left them deeply impressed by his selfless courage.
The citation described how he bayoneted enemy soldiers, crawled forward despite injuries, and ultimately sacrificed his life for his comrades and country. Such exceptional valour in the face of certain death inspired feelings of awe and respect.
The students felt humbled because they realised the magnitude of sacrifice these soldiers made for the nation. While they lived in comfort and safety, brave soldiers like Albert Ekka gave their lives to ensure that citizens could enjoy peace.
The experience made them reflect on their own lives and motivated them to live worthy of such sacrifices. Soumya mentions that the citation 'touched my heart and also motivated me' and she aspired to be courageous like him.
Explanation
The chapter states on Page 4: 'Then the teacher shared with us the citation of Param Vir Chakra awardee Lance Naik Albert Ekka. It touched my heart and also motivated me. We were awestruck and humbled by his bravery.' The detailed citation that follows shows the exceptional courage that inspired these feelings.
Solution Steps
The teacher shared the citation of Param Vir Chakra awardee Lance Naik Albert Ekka with the students
Albert Ekka displayed extraordinary bravery by charging enemy bunkers despite serious wounds and silencing machine guns
He ultimately sacrificed his life for his comrades and country, showing exceptional valour
Students felt humbled realising the magnitude of soldiers' sacrifices while they lived in comfort and safety
The experience motivated students to reflect on their lives and live worthy of such sacrifices
Soumya was particularly touched and motivated by the citation, aspiring to be courageous like him