Class 9 English Weathering the Storm in Ersama Summary and Notes - PDF
Class 9 English Weathering the Storm in Ersama Summary and Notes - PDF
Harsh Mander: A respected Indian social activist, researcher, and author. Mr. Mander
dedicates his work to advocating for the rights of underprivileged communities and social
justice issues. He's known for his insightful writing on social realities in India. "Weathering
the Storm in Ersama" exemplifies his commitment to highlighting the courage and resilience
found within communities.
"Weathering the Storm in Ersama" tells the story of Prashant, a young boy caught in a
devastating cyclone while visiting a friend in Ersama, a coastal town. The sudden storm brings
torrential rain and ferocious winds, trapping Prashant and his friend's family inside their home.
As floodwaters rise and danger mounts, Prashant worries about his own family back in their
village. Determined to check on them, he ventures out after the storm subsides, navigating a
ravaged landscape. The story emphasises Prashant's courage, his concern for his family, and
the importance of community in difficult times.
The ‘Weathering the Storm in Ersama’ is the theme of courage and resilience in the face of
the odds. The story shows Prashant's bravery as he not only survives the frightening cyclone
but also ventures out to reach his family. It also highlights the importance of family and
community. Ultimately, the story celebrates the human spirit's ability to overcome challenges
through courage, determination, and the support of loved ones.
Character Sketches:
1. Prashant: The protagonist of the story, Prashant is a young boy visiting a friend in Ersama
when the cyclone hits. He demonstrates remarkable courage and resourcefulness. Despite
being trapped and worried about his own family, he faced a dangerous journey to check on
2. Prashant's Friend's Family: While their names aren't mentioned, Prashant's friend's family
plays a crucial role. They offer him shelter and support during the storm, showing the
importance of community spirit. Their actions emphasise the value of helping others in times
of need.
• The story "Weathering the Storm in Ersama" tells the true tale of Prashant, a young
man caught in the devastating 1999 cyclone that struck Orissa (now Odisha).
• Prashant was visiting a friend in Ersama, a coastal town when the cyclone hit. The
storm's fury was immense, leaving a trail of destruction – houses demolished, lives lost,
floodwaters everywhere carrying debris and bodies.
• Stranded on his friend's rooftop for two freezing nights with his friend's family,
Prashant could only watch the horror unfold.
• Deeply worried about his own family back home, Prashant set out to find them as soon
as the rain stopped.
• His search led him to his uncle's friends and eventually to the Red Cross shelter, where
he found his family safe but shaken.
• With the support of other young people and elders, he organised a team of volunteers
to clean debris, care for the injured, and even managed to attract the attention of a relief
helicopter by using hungry children as a signal.
• Prashant's efforts didn't stop there. He put up a shelter for orphaned children, found
them search homes, and encouraged women to participate in an NGO's food-for-work
program.
• He even organised sports events to bring a sense of normalcy back to the lives of the
children.
• Prashant's courage, resourcefulness, and selflessness became a beacon of hope for those
affected by the cyclone.
• He is a true example of how even a young person can make a difference in the face of
adversity.