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Extract from the Text
In 2019, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) honoured her legacy by renaming a star in the constellation Leo—HD 86081—as ‘Bibha,’ meaning ‘beam of light.’
Summary in Bullet Points
- The star name gives the chapter’s central light metaphor a literal form.
- Recognition arrives decades after her death in 1991.
- The Government of India also declares a chair professorship in her name in 2020.
Board Pattern
Questions Mapped to Exam Format
Short Answer
2 marks
How does naming a star ‘Bibha’ work both literally and symbolically?
2 Marks
How to answer:
Give the main idea and one supporting detail.
View Answer
Answer: Literally, a star receives her name. Symbolically, the star represents the light, guidance and scientific inspiration associated with her life.
Longer Short Answer
3 marks
Why is posthumous recognition an important part of the chapter?
3 Marks
How to answer:
Explain the point and show why it matters in the chapter.
View Answer
Answer: It shows that forgotten or overlooked contributions can be recovered later. It also forces readers to ask why recognition was not given adequately during the scientist’s lifetime.
