A Baker From Goa- Glimpses of India - Long Answers

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Long Answers 

1. Describe the daily routine and importance of the traditional baker in a Goan village as portrayed in the text.

  The traditional baker in a Goan village was an important figure, often arriving twice a day with his basket of bread. The sound of his bamboo staff announced his presence, and he provided various types of bread to the villagers. Children eagerly awaited his arrival for the bread-bangles. Bakers played a vital role in celebrations and festivals, providing essential items like bol for weddings and cakes for Christmas. The baker’s profession was not only profitable but also a significant part of the village's social and cultural life.

2. Explain how the traditional Goan baker’s attire evolved over time and what it signifies about the changes in the profession.

  Initially, traditional Goan bakers wore a *kabai*, a long frock reaching down to the knees. Over time, their attire evolved to a shirt and trousers that were shorter than full-length but longer than half pants. This change in attire signifies a shift in fashion and perhaps modernization within the profession. The evolution in clothing also reflects a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, indicating that while some customs were maintained, others adapted to newer trends.

3. Evaluate the impact of the traditional baker on Goan society and culture, citing examples from the text.

  The traditional baker had a profound impact on Goan society and culture. He was integral to daily life, providing bread, which was a staple in every household. The baker's role extended beyond mere sustenance; he was a part of celebrations and ceremonies, making him indispensable. For instance, marriage gifts were incomplete without the sweet bread *bol*, and festivals like Christmas required cakes and bolinhas. The baker’s presence and the sound of his bamboo staff were nostalgic reminders of the Portuguese influence, highlighting the cultural continuity and the baker's social importance.

4. Analyze the relationship between the baker’s prosperity and his social status in Goan villages.

  The prosperity of the baker was evident from his physical appearance and the happiness of his family. The text mentions that bakers were plump, indicating their well-fed status. This physical trait was a testimony to their successful profession. Bakers never starved and maintained a prosperous household, which contributed to their elevated social status in the village. The ability to provide essential items for significant occasions further cemented their role and respect in society. This relationship between prosperity and social status reflects the economic stability and esteem associated with the baking profession in traditional Goan villages.