गस (Gheesa)
This story is about a poor and illiterate woman named Gheesa, who works as a maid in a rich household. She is exploited and abused by her employers, who treat her like a slave. She has no identity or dignity of her own, and lives only for her son, whom she hopes to educate and make a better life for. However, her son turns out to be ungrateful and selfish, and abandons her when he grows up. Gheesa is left alone and helpless, with no hope or happiness in life.
This story exposes the harsh realities of class inequality, gender oppression and social injustice in India. It also portrays the plight of women who are denied education, freedom and respect by a patriarchal society. Mahadevi Verma uses simple but powerful language to convey the emotions and thoughts of Gheesa, who represents the voiceless and oppressed masses of India.
सुभद्र (Subhadra)
This story is about a young girl named Subhadra, who lives in a village with her widowed mother and brother. She is intelligent and curious, but has no opportunity to study or pursue her interests. She is expected to follow the traditional norms of a conservative society, which restricts her choices and freedom. She is married off to a man who is much older than her, and who does not care for her feelings or aspirations. She suffers from loneliness and boredom in her marital home, where she has no friends or companions. She finds solace in reading books and writing poems, which she hides from her husband and in-laws. One day, she meets a young man who shares her love for literature and poetry. He encourages her to express herself and pursue her dreams. However, their friendship is soon discovered by Subhadra's husband, who beats her up and locks her up in a room. Subhadra decides to escape from her prison and run away with her lover.
This story explores the themes of love, freedom and rebellion in the context of a rural society that is bound by tradition and superstition. It also highlights the challenges faced by women who want to break free from the shackles of patriarchy and oppression. Mahadevi Verma uses poetic imagery and symbolism to depict the contrast between Subhadra's inner world and outer reality.
प्रणम रवन्द्र ठकुर (Pranam Ravindra Thakur)
This story is about Mahadevi Verma's personal encounter with Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel laureate poet and writer from Bengal. She visits Shantiniketan, Tagore's ashram and university, where she meets him for the first time. She is awestruck by his personality, charisma and wisdom. He welcomes her warmly and treats her like his own daughter. He also praises her poetry and encourages her to write more. He gives her valuable advice on life, art and spirituality. He also introduces her to his family members and students, who are equally impressed by her talent and grace. Mahadevi Verma feels honored and humbled by his affection and respect.
This story is a tribute to Tagore, who was Mahadevi Verma's mentor and inspiration. It also reflects her admiration and gratitude for him, who was one of the greatest poets and thinkers of India. Mahadevi Verma uses a conversational and respectful tone to narrate her experience and feelings. She also quotes some of Tagore's poems and songs to illustrate his thoughts and vision.
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