The fifth chapter of the NCERT Class 10 Hindi Sparsh book, titled “तोप” (Top), is a powerful poem written by Suryakant Tripathi ‘Nirala’, one of the leading poets of modern Hindi literature. The poem portrays the image of an old cannon standing silently in a fort, symbolising the futility of war, power, and pride. Students studying this poem can download the NCERT Class 10 Hindi Sparsh Chapter 5 PDF to read the complete text and understand its depth.
I chose to write about this poem because “Top” is not just about a weapon; it’s about human history, politics, and the moral questions around violence and power. For students, this poem offers a chance to think beyond words—it encourages them to question what true strength means. In today’s world, where conflicts and competitions dominate headlines, Nirala’s message still feels relevant. Understanding this poem helps students see how literature can make us reflect on society and human behaviour. It’s important to study this chapter not just for exams, but to learn how poetic symbolism can express deep truths about life and power.
About “तोप” – Poem Overview
The poem “Top” by Suryakant Tripathi ‘Nirala’ uses the image of an abandoned cannon on a fort to reflect on time, war, and human arrogance. Once a mighty weapon of war, the cannon now stands unused and silent, covered in rust. This contrast between its glorious past and its lifeless present shows how power and violence eventually lose their meaning.
Nirala masterfully uses this image to highlight the temporary nature of human pride. The poem invites readers to think about the destruction caused by war and how the same weapons that once symbolised strength become mere showpieces of the past.
Main Highlights of the Poem:
- The cannon represents the arrogance of kings and rulers
- It shows the transition from power to silence, strength to decay
- The poem questions the relevance of war and violence
- It uses deep symbolism to show the victory of peace over power
Significance of This Chapter for Class 10 Students
For Class 10 students, “Top” is not only an important part of the Hindi syllabus but also a meaningful piece of poetry that provokes thought. It helps students understand how great poets like Nirala used everyday objects to express big ideas.
Why It’s Important:
- Enhances analytical and critical thinking about symbols in poetry
- Builds awareness about human values like peace and humility
- Introduces students to Nirala’s Chhayavaad style, which blends emotion and philosophy
- Helps in developing interpretation skills for unseen poems and literary analysis
This poem also helps students appreciate how literature can serve as a mirror to history, showing how power fades but art and thought remain eternal.
Download NCERT Class 10 Hindi Sparsh Chapter 5 PDF
Students who want to read the full text of the poem can easily download the NCERT Class 10 Hindi Sparsh Chapter 5 – तोप PDF from here.
