Madam Rides the Bus — Class 10 English NCERT Solutions (Free)

Free step-by-step NCERT solutions for Class 10 English chapter "Madam Rides the Bus" — 6 important questions with detailed answers for CBSE board exam preparation.

TL;DR: Free step-by-step NCERT solutions for Class 10 English chapter "Madam Rides the Bus" — 6 important questions with detailed answers for CBSE board exam…

By Syllab.in · Updated Jun 17, 2026

Key Questions Covered:

Who is Madam and why is the story titled 'Madam Rides the Bus'?
What was Valamma's life like before she decided to ride the bus?
What motivated Valamma to ride the bus?
How did people around Valamma react to her decision to ride the bus?
What happened during Valamma's bus journey?
What is the significance of Valamma's journey?

Solutions Summary:

Question	Status
Who is Madam and why is the story titled 'Madam Rides the…	✓ Solved
What was Valamma's life like before she decided to ride t…	✓ Solved
What motivated Valamma to ride the bus?	✓ Solved
How did people around Valamma react to her decision to ri…	✓ Solved
What happened during Valamma's bus journey?	✓ Solved
What is the significance of Valamma's journey?	✓ Solved

Showing 6 of 6 questions

Q1: Who is Madam and why is the story titled 'Madam Rides the Bus'?

Madam is Valamma, an elderly widow who decides to travel on a city bus. The story is titled 'Madam Rides the Bus' because her solo journey on public transport is significant and symbolic of her independence and breaking free from social constraints. The simple act of riding a bus alone becomes a statement of her newfound freedom.

Q2: What was Valamma's life like before she decided to ride the bus?

Before riding the bus, Valamma had lived a confined and dependent life. As a widow, she was confined within the house and had little freedom or independence. She was bound by social expectations and the control of her family members. Her life was limited to household chores and domestic responsibilities.

Q3: What motivated Valamma to ride the bus?

Valamma was motivated by the desire to visit a friend, Rosie, whom she had not seen in a long time. However, beneath this immediate motivation was a deeper desire for independence and freedom. She wanted to prove to herself that she could do something on her own and break free from the constraints placed upon her.

Q4: How did people around Valamma react to her decision to ride the bus?

Valamma's family was shocked and disapproving of her decision. They considered it improper for a widow of her age and status to travel alone on a bus. However, Valamma was determined and went ahead with her decision, showing courage and resolve to pursue what she wanted despite social disapproval.

Q5: What happened during Valamma's bus journey?

During the bus journey, Valamma experienced the independence and freedom she had longed for. She interacted with other passengers, observed the city from the bus window, and felt a sense of joy and accomplishment. Though the journey had some minor mishaps and confusions, she successfully reached her destination and found her friend Rosie.

Q6: What is the significance of Valamma's journey?

Valamma's bus journey is a metaphor for her journey toward freedom and independence. It represents breaking social norms and patriarchal constraints. Her successful journey shows that it is never too late to seek freedom and assert one's independence. The story celebrates the spirit of an elderly woman who defies social expectations and chooses her own path.

Showing 6 of 6 questions. Visit the full page for complete solutions.