J's Musings

Poem by Sarojini Naidu

The poem talks about how a woman’s bangles signify her state of mind at every stage in life. The poetess takes us through a woman’s life and helps us understand an average Indian woman’s life during the British era. From maiden to mother, life described through bangles seems so much better.

The first verse describes how a bangle seller brings his bangles to temple fairs and believes they will make women happy. For they are like rainbow tinted circles of light; or lustrous gifts to ensure radiance in lives.

In the second verse the poetess proceeds to tell us about a young maiden’s lifestyle through bangles. It is told that they are blue; a colour that symbolizes stability, showing that the young girl does not have too much to worry about in life and she lives a stable, worry less life. They are also silver; a colour associated with modernity, glamour and grace. All of which a young lady possesses. Or they may be soft pink; the colour of love and compassion, like the young lady would be. Lastly, they may be green; fertile and full of life the sweet maiden.

The next verse describes a new bride, about to be married. Her bangles might be yellow; full of hope and optimism like her marriage. During the rituals she wears flaming red bangles, unusually crimson, like her wedding fire. The colour of sacrifice, courage, danger, love and burning passion. Perfect for the day where she must leave something to gain something, step into an unknown place and make it her own just because she loves someone.

In the fourth verse we see a woman who is already in her mid-forties with kids and a happy family. Her bangles are purple; spirituality, femineity, royalty, peace and pride. We see that she is quite proud of how she has raised her kids and kept the family in peace. She also has gold bangles; affluence, sophistication and accomplishment. All suitable for the proud and accomplished woman in life.

These were my interpretation of Sarojini Naidu’s poem. I believe it is an extremely well written piece that must be preserved.

Picture Credits- evara on Pinterest