Friends, our nation has, for centuries, been a birthplace and a stage for great men and women – rishis, munis, poets, writers, musicians, and many more, whose rich contributions are invaluable. The countless creations of these luminaries are treasures beyond price. Today's youth, immersed in the digital age, seem to be getting lost, drifting further and further away from our heritage and precious legacy. subkuz.com consistently strives to connect you with these priceless treasures, along with entertaining stories, news, and insights into the world around us. Presented here is one such invaluable and inspiring story, penned by the esteemed writer, Munshi Premchand.
Virjan's Farewell
Radhacharan, fresh out of the Roorkee College, secured a job as an engineer in Moradabad, and Chandra accompanied him. Premavati tried her best to dissuade them, but who can hold back those who have decided to leave? Sevti had already moved to her in-laws' home. Premavati was left alone in the house, shouldering all the household responsibilities. The decision was made to send the news of Virjan's marriage. The Deputy Sahib, however, was not in agreement, but Premavati's word held sway in the household matters.
Sanjivanlal accepted the message. For some time, he had been contemplating a pilgrimage. He had gradually detached himself from worldly ties. Throughout the day, he would sit in meditation, studying spiritual texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Yogavasishtha. As the evening approached, he would go for a dip in the Ganges. He would return from there late at night, consume a simple meal, and then sleep. Often, Pratapchandra would accompany him on these Ganges trips. Although he was barely sixteen years of age, a certain innate zest, familial influences, and the company of these spiritual figures, provided him great delight in pondering and reflecting upon scientific principles. Listening to discussions about knowledge and the divine, his inclination towards devotion deepened. Sometimes he engaged in intricate discussions with the Munshi, leaving him amazed. Vrujrani was greatly influenced by Suvaman’s teachings, as Pratapchandra was by the Munshi’s guidance and wisdom. He was fifteen years old. At this age, new aspirations awaken, and the face blossoms with a charm born of youthful grace and vitality. But Vrujrani remained a simple, innocent girl. Her face reflected the pure emotions of her heart, and her speech radiated a captivating sweetness. Each morning, she would first tidy the Munshi's room, arranging his worship materials meticulously, and then attend to the kitchen chores. The afternoons were reserved for her studies and reading. She loved and respected Suvaman as much as she did her mother. Her desire to obey the orders regarding Virjan was absolute.
Suvaman advocated against hastening the departure. However, due to the Munshi's insistence, preparations for the farewell commenced. As the moment of separation approached, Virjan's anxiety grew. She wept day and night. She would fall at her father's feet and cling to Suvaman's embrace. A married daughter, leaving her parental home, becomes another's responsibility, and no one has the right to interfere.
Pratapchandra and Virjan had been companions like siblings for many days. Yet, whenever Virjan looked at him, her eyes lowered. Pratapchandra too felt the same. He rarely came home, and when he did, it was only out of necessity. His gaze was downcast and withdrawn, as if he were a bride. A profound love, one that he could not reveal even to Virjan, was hidden in his eyes.
One evening, just three days before the departure, Pratapchandra went inside for something and lit a lamp in his room. Virjan entered. Her sari was drenched in tears. After two years, she looked at Pratapchandra with tear-filled eyes and said, "Lallu, how can I bear this separation?"
Pratapchandra's eyes didn't well up. His voice was steady. He said, "God will grant you the strength to endure."
Virjan bowed her head. Her eyes fell to the ground, and a single sob articulated the depth of her sorrow, a grief beyond words.
How sorrowful is a farewell for young women! Bonds with childhood friends, parents, brothers, and relatives are severed. The thought of ever returning to this home brought her no comfort. She will only be a guest in her own home, now. Parting with those with whom she had spent her days in gardens of life and wandered in the groves of freedom, tore at her heart. From this day forward, a heavy burden fell upon her, a burden she would have to bear for the rest of her life.
Virjan was being adorned. Naina was applying henna to her hands and feet. Someone was braiding her hair, and another perfuming her braided tresses. But the one for whom these preparations were being made was scattering pearls on the ground. A message arrived from Barah, informing them that the auspicious time was nearing. Suvaman stood nearby. Virjan clung to her embrace, and the torrent of tears, which had been simmering like embers, suddenly erupted, as if someone had thrown oil on the fire.
Soon, the palanquin arrived at the gate. Virjan embraced the neighboring women. She touched Suvaman's feet, and then two or three women helped her into the palanquin. As the palanquin moved away, Suvaman collapsed on the ground, as if someone had snatched her life away. The house felt empty. A multitude of women had gathered, but the house felt desolate without Virjan.
And so, this was a truly inspiring tale from the great writer, Munshi Premchand. This story teaches us valuable lessons. The entire team at subkuz strives to ensure that our visitors are constantly exposed to inspiring stories. Continue reading such inspiring and insightful stories on subkuz.com.
