The name is Virgin Chandni. But her appearance does not match the name. Chandni’s parents are worried about their daughter. Suitors come and go, yet none seem interested in her. One after another, grooms visit, eat, drink, glance at her, hand her a hundred-rupee note, and leave. They say, “I will go home and tell her,” but no news ever comes. Suitors from 10–12 places have seen Virgin Chandni and departed without interest.
Virgin Chandni feels pain. Sometimes, she wishes she would never have to marry in this life. She wants to stand on her own two feet. Yet, some dreams bring her joy: the hope of a husband, a family where she will be the wife, children she will educate and raise as human beings, sharing with them the events of her life. But will her dreams come true?
The Contrast: Virgin Chandni and Virgin Maina
On that day, the girl next door, Virgin Maina, got married. She was much younger than Chandni, slightly better-looking, but lacking virtues. She would not connect with the man who became her husband. Despite her fame in polite society, her character was not admirable.
Virgin Chandni, on the other hand, possesses endless virtues. If anyone in the neighborhood spoke ill of her, their heart would tremble. But no one appreciates her. Who can she confide in? The thoughts of the heart are meant only for the heart. Is external beauty everything?
A saying torments her:
“First be a philosopher, then judge the quality.”
Chandni thinks, if you mistake copper for gold, what result can you expect? The value remains copper, and its true color reappears in time.
Books and Knowledge: Chandni’s Solace
Virgin Chandni spends her free time reading books, gaining knowledge and sharpening her feelings. Recently, she finished Samaresh Majumdar’s novel Kalbela, an award-winning work. Yet, to Chandni, the hero seems irresponsible. Though aware of his lover Virgin Madhavilata’s feelings, he fails to honor her with the respect she deserves.
These thoughts fuel her growing disillusionment with men. The straight lines of the books she reads deepen this perspective.
Family Conflicts
Chandni faces criticism at home for not marrying. Some treat her as a burden.
One morning, a conflict erupted with her younger brother, Ramen. While she watched a drama series on TV, he changed the channel to cricket.
“What happened, Ramen?”
“No response.”
“Wait until the play finishes before the game,” Chandni urged.
“I will watch now,” Ramen insisted.
A tense argument followed. Chandni tried to prevent Ramen from taking the remote. He pushed her, causing her to fall and hurt her back. Frustrated and in pain, she retreated to her room, burying her face in the pillow, tears streaming down her cheeks.
Despite her suffering, she reflects on Vivekananda’s words:
“If there is such a thing as the sins of previous births, then this body is that sin.”
Chandni contemplates suicide but rejects it, choosing instead to appreciate life’s beauty.
The Arrival of Suitors
People were scheduled to come next Monday to see Chandni. Her parents feared no groom would like her. Yet, societal customs dictated that higher dowries increased a groom’s perceived value, regardless of a bride’s appearance or occupation.
When the groom’s family arrived, Chandni personally decorated the house and attended to the guests. She presented herself humbly, answering questions politely. Despite her anxiety, she maintained dignity and composure.
The Groom’s Interest
After consulting among themselves, the groom’s family hinted to Chandni’s father that they liked her. Ramen excitedly relayed the news to Chandni:
“Sister, they like you! Now you will get married.”
Chandni was stunned. She questioned herself: Why would a boy appreciate a girl considered unattractive? Surely, he was not a worshiper of beauty. She realized she might only be agreeing to marry for financial reasons, even though her heart sought more.
Chandni’s Decision
Chandni decided firmly: she wanted to remain a virgin in spirit. She desired authenticity, not conformity, and chose to prioritize her self-worth over societal expectations.
FAQ – Understanding Virgin Chandni
Why is Virgin Chandni unhappy with societal expectations?
Chandni values inner virtue over external beauty, but society pressures her to conform to superficial norms, causing her emotional distress.
What role does reading play in her life?
Books provide Chandni knowledge, emotional insight, and the ability to reflect on human behavior, strengthening her independence.
How does Chandni handle family conflicts?
She responds with patience but experiences emotional pain. Her thoughtful nature allows her to understand deeper life lessons despite conflicts.
What does her encounter with the groom reveal?
It demonstrates that genuine connection can transcend societal standards of beauty, yet her inner resolve ensures she will not compromise her values.
What message does Chandni’s story convey?
True worth lies in character, knowledge, and self-respect, not just outward appearance. Following one’s principles brings inner strength and fulfillment.
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