Question

why was sher singh ashamed to say"my father is not here" when the doctor called for him??

Answer 1

Because generally in a rural village a boy would be got to a hospital by an elder in the family, since the mother cannot do so in this case, the doctor expected to see the father. But, sher singh feels ashamed about the constant absence of his father. He also kind of wishes his father was there do take care of them,be with them in times of need. Therefore he is ashamed to be taking the role of his father instead of his 'courageous' father himself