In Khushwant Singh’s poignant short story The Portrait of a Lady, the grandmother emerges as a central figure, embodying the essence of traditional Indian womanhood. Her character is a rich tapestry woven with threads of unwavering faith, deep-rooted traditions, and boundless love, making her an enduring symbol of resilience and devotion.
Physical Appearance and First Impressions
The narrator describes his grandmother as an ever-old woman, asserting that he had always seen her as ancient and wrinkled. Her physical depiction is vivid: a short, plump, and slightly bent figure, draped in a spotless white sari, with silver hair scattered untidily over her face. Her serene and comforting presence is likened to a “winter landscape in the mountains,” suggesting a sense of calm and timelessness. This imagery not only paints a clear picture of her appearance but also reflects her inner tranquility and spiritual depth.
Spirituality and Daily Routine
The grandmother’s life is deeply entrenched in spirituality and religious practices. She is portrayed as a devout woman, constantly engaged in prayer and the chanting of scriptures. Her day revolves around religious rituals, from reciting prayers in a sing-song manner to counting the beads of her rosary. This unwavering devotion underscores her commitment to her faith and the traditional values she upholds.
Relationship with the Narrator
The bond between the grandmother and the grandson is profound and multifaceted. During his childhood, she is his constant companion, waking him up, preparing him for school, and accompanying him to the temple-school. While he attends classes, she reads scriptures in the adjoining temple, highlighting their shared routine and close relationship. However, as the narrator grows and moves to the city for higher education, their interactions diminish. Despite this physical and emotional distance, her affection remains unwavering, evident in her silent support and understanding demeanor.
Adaptation to Change and Resilience
The grandmother’s character is marked by her ability to adapt to changing circumstances without compromising her principles. When the family relocates to the city, she gracefully adjusts to the new environment, even as her role in the narrator’s life diminishes. She spends her time spinning the wheel, reciting prayers, and feeding sparrows, finding solace in these simple pleasures. Her resilience is further exemplified when the narrator departs for higher studies abroad; she remains stoic, offering silent blessings without displaying overt emotions.
Symbolism and Legacy
The grandmother symbolizes the fading traditions and values of a bygone era, standing in contrast to the rapidly modernizing world around her. Her serene demeanor, spiritual dedication, and unconditional love serve as a reminder of the enduring strength of traditional values. Even in death, her influence persists, as depicted by the silent mourning of the sparrows, creatures she lovingly fed daily. Their quiet presence around her lifeless body signifies a deep, unspoken bond and the profound impact she had on all living beings around her.
Conclusion
Khushwant Singh’s portrayal of his grandmother in The Portrait of a Lady is a heartfelt tribute to a woman who embodies the virtues of faith, love, and resilience. Her character serves as a bridge between the past and the present, reminding readers of the timeless values that continue to shape and influence lives across generations
