31 pages • 1 hour read
Rabindranath TagoreKabuliwala
Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1892A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Symbols & Motifs
Cabuliwallah’s Bag of Dry Fruits
This bag represents Rahmun's identity as a Cabuliwallah, an Afghan immigrant in Calcutta. It is a tangible reflection of his livelihood and his connection to his homeland. The Afghan dry fruits contained within the bag are a visual reminder of his native culture, and they set him apart from the local Bengali populace.
Furthermore, the bag of dry fruits becomes a bridge of communication and connection between Rahmun and Mini. Rahmun's practice of giving these dry fruits as gifts to Mini reflects his tradition back home. It symbolizes his desire to establish friendly relations and share a part of his Afghan heritage with Mini and her family. In their first encounter, Rahmun offers Mini dry fruits, which highlights the significance of these treats in forming their initial bond. As the story concludes, Rahmun again brings almonds, raisins, and grapes for Mini, showing that his emotional connection with Mini lasted over time.
The Handprint
The handprint carries emotional significance in the story as it symbolizes the theme of A Father’s Love. Rahmun's possession of his daughter Parbati's handprint is a symbol of the deep love he holds for her. This small imprint, a relic of her childhood, represents the strong bond between a father and his daughter. It highlights the sacrifices that he is willing to make for his child, as Rahmun leaves his homeland to provide for her. The fact that he keeps this handprint close to his heart reflects the depth of his love for his daughter and his longing to reunite with her, as well as preserve her childhood. Just as Rahmun treasures this simple mark as a connection to his daughter's past, Mini’s father (the narrator) values the memories of Mini's childhood. When Mini’s father sees this handprint, it stirs his empathy and compassion, and he decides to help Rahmun return to Parbati.
The Seasons
The changing seasons emerge as a significant motif in the story that not only reflects The Passage of Time but also mirrors the evolving relationships between the characters. The story opens in the season of autumn, a period characterized by transition, where nature sheds its leaves and signals change and uncertainty. This initial setting parallels the circumstances surrounding Rahmun's arrival in Calcutta, as his presence sparks curiosity and apprehension within Mini's household. As the narrative progresses, the seasons also change just like the character’s lives and perceptions.
The story culminates during the Puja Holidays, a time of celebration and joy, aligning with the positive evolution of Mini and Rahmun's relationship. This progression of seasons is symbolic of the characters' emotional journeys.
Mini, initially wary and curious, matures and grows emotionally, leading to a more profound understanding of Rahmun. The changing seasons underscore how The Passage of Time influences the characters' lives, altering their perceptions and relationships.
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By Rabindranath Tagore
