The Tiger King

Notes

The Tiger King – Complete Notes

Chapter: The Tiger King

Author: Kalki (R. Krishnamurthy)

Book: Vistas – Class 12 English

Chapter Number: 2

Genre: Satirical Short Story

1. Introduction

"The Tiger King" is a satirical story written by Kalki. It tells the story of the Maharaja of Pratibandapuram, who becomes obsessed with killing tigers after hearing a prophecy about his death.

When the Maharaja is born, astrologers predict that he will one day die because of a tiger. Determined to prove them wrong, he decides to kill one hundred tigers.

His obsession makes him misuse his royal power and ignore his responsibilities as a ruler.

Ironically, he is eventually killed by an infection caused by a tiny wooden splinter from a toy tiger.

The story uses humour, irony and exaggeration to criticise the arrogance of powerful rulers, the misuse of authority and the foolish belief that fate can be defeated through violence.

2. About the Author – Kalki

Kalki was the pen name of R. Krishnamurthy (1899–1954), a famous Indian writer, journalist and freedom fighter.

He wrote mainly in Tamil and became well known for his historical novels, short stories and social commentary.

His writing often combined humour, imagination and criticism of social and political problems.

In "The Tiger King", he uses satire to expose the pride, selfishness and misuse of power by a royal ruler.

3. Main Characters

A. The Tiger King

The Tiger King is the Maharaja of Pratibandapuram.

His full name is Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur.

He is proud, stubborn and determined to challenge the prophecy about his death.

He becomes obsessed with killing one hundred tigers and misuses his royal authority to achieve this goal.

B. The Chief Astrologer

The chief astrologer predicts that the Maharaja will die because of a tiger.

He warns the king to be especially careful of the hundredth tiger.

His prediction creates the central conflict of the story.

C. The Dewan

The Dewan is the Maharaja's chief minister.

He is frightened of the king and tries to satisfy his demands.