Question

Write a pen-portrait of Nathu Ram, the sweeper boy.
(The Boy Who Broke the Bank)

Hint:

Pen-portraits should include background, personality traits, and the character’s role in the story.

Answer 1

Nathu Ram is a simple, hardworking, and innocent sweeper boy. His careless remark unknowingly creates panic in the town. Though poor and uneducated, he is honest and represents the vulnerable common man.
Step 1: Social background.
In “The Boy Who Broke the Bank”, Nathu Ram is a poor sweeper working at the bank. He lives a difficult life and depends on daily wages.
Step 2: Innocence and impact.
His casual complaint about delayed payment is misunderstood and spreads as a rumour, leading to chaos. He never intends to cause harm.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Nathu Ram symbolizes innocence, poverty, and how rumours can affect the lives of simple people.