31 pages 1 hour read

Rabindranath Tagore

Kabuliwala

Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1892

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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.

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