Symbolism Synthesis Page

Quick Information- The setting is Bombay, India during the second World War. India is a colony of Great Britain but trying to break away. The main character Vidya lives comfortably but after her father’s brain is greatly impaired at a protest, she and her family must leave to her father’s family house. There she is treated almost as a servant, similar to the tale of Cinderella. She cannot take much to her new “home” and must leave her dog Raja behind.

Raja symbolizes Vidya’s past life in Bombay

In Hindi Raja means “king.” This displays how in comparison to where she lives for the majority of the story, Vidya’s home in

Bombay was almost majestic.She had the right to knowledge that she is denied in Madras and is not scolded for not being “the perfect bride” that she is supposed to be.

In Addition, in the beginning of the book, page 4, proceeding the visit of Vidya’s uncle who limits her rights, Vidya’s father says, “And remember to tie Raja up Saturday morning before he comes. You know how periappa feels about dogs.” This quote illustrates how Raja makes Vidya happy and when her uncles or aunts are around, Raja and her joy are not priorities.

Also, Raja is often described by Vidya as silky and soft, unlike the rough mats she must sleep on at her relative’s household. Raja was part of a comfortable, free lifestyle that was very different than most Indian girls had. Vidya had the right to education and could speak her mind. But away from her home (and Raja) she is forced into the stereotype of “a proper young lady.”