Chapter 9, "A Tiger in the House," from the Class 7 NCERT English textbook, "Alien Hand": 

Summary:

"A Tiger in the House" is a captivating and humorous story that explores the dynamics of having an unexpected and exotic pet. The narrative centers around the experiences of a family that finds itself dealing with the challenges of keeping a tiger as a house pet.

The story begins with the protagonist, Grandfather, recounting his encounter with a tiger during his hunting days. The tiger, named Timothy, was injured and brought back by Grandfather. Despite being nursed back to health, the tiger's presence causes anxiety and apprehension among the family members.

As time passes, the family adjusts to having Timothy in their home. The young narrator shares how Timothy's playful antics bring a mix of excitement and concern. Timothy develops a fondness for the narrator's Aunt, and their bond becomes a central aspect of the story.

The narrator's father, however, is increasingly worried about the potential dangers posed by having a tiger in the house. He consults a zoo director, Mr. Pradhan, seeking advice on how to manage the situation. Mr. Pradhan suggests transferring Timothy to a zoo to ensure the safety of the family and the tiger.

The family faces the dilemma of parting with Timothy, who has become an integral part of their lives. The decision to send him to the zoo is met with mixed emotions. The narrator, Grandfather, and Aunt are particularly attached to Timothy, but they recognize that it's the best course of action.

On the day of Timothy's departure, the family feels a deep sense of loss. The narrator's Aunt is particularly emotional, and even the tiger seems to sense the gravity of the moment. As Timothy is taken away by Mr. Pradhan, the family is left with a profound sense of emptiness.

In a surprising twist, the family receives a gift from the zoo – a tiger cub named Timothy Jr. The story concludes with a sense of renewal and continuity, as the young Timothy Jr. becomes the new focus of the family's affection and care.

Themes:

Human-Animal Bond: The central theme revolves around the unique bond that can develop between humans and animals, even in unconventional circumstances.

Responsibility and Safety: The story addresses the themes of responsibility and safety, highlighting the challenges of keeping an exotic animal as a pet and the need to prioritize both human and animal well-being.

Change and Continuity: The cyclical nature of life and the theme of continuity are evident in the arrival of Timothy Jr., symbolizing the continuation of the family's connection with tigers.

"A Tiger in the House" offers a delightful exploration of the relationship between humans and animals, as well as the unexpected turns that life can take. The story underscores the complexities of caring for animals and the emotional depth that such relationships can bring. It reminds readers that while connections may change, the impact of those connections endures.