CBSE · Class 10 · Hindi · Kshitij Prose: Lakhnavi AndaazWhy did the Nawab of Lucknow purchase two Kheeras (cucumbers), and how did he prepare them before eating?

The Nawab of Lucknow purchased two fresh, tender Kheeras from the station vendor to satisfy his thirst and perhaps to display a show of false gentility and aristocracy in front of the author. Despite belonging to a royal lineage, the Nawab was travelling in a third-class railway compartment, which contrasted with his royal pretensions. To prepare the cucumbers, the Nawab first carefully washed them using the water from the small lota available with him and wiped them dry with his towel. Then, with immaculate care, he used his pocket-knife to skillfully slice off the top of each cucumber and gently rubbed the cut portions to remove the bitter substance known as 'jhajh'. After carefully peeling the skin of the cucumbers, he arranged the finely cut slices neatly on a piece of newspaper spread on his knees. Furthermore, he meticulously sprinkled roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt over the cucumber slices, enhancing their flavor and aroma, which thoroughly displayed his refined and leisurely aristocratic manner of consuming even a humble snack like cucumber.