The Riddle Solved
A zemindar, having retired to devote his life to spirituality, leaves his estate to his son, who embodies modernity and strictness. The son, Bipin Bihari, enforces rigid financial policies, revoking his father's charitable land grants to Brahmins and refusing to show leniency to tenants. He believes that charity fosters idleness and that he must reclaim lost income to maintain his status. Among the tenants, Asimuddin, a defiant Muslim, resists Bipin's demands, leading to a protracted legal battle. Asimuddin's mother, Mirza Bibi, pleads for compassion, but Bipin remains unmoved, viewing her son as undeserving. Asimuddin's situation deteriorates, culminating in his arrest after a desperate act of aggression against Bipin. As the trial approaches, Bipin's father arrives unexpectedly, urging him to acquit Asimuddin and restore his lands. When pressed for the reason behind his past generosity towards Asimuddin's family, the father reveals a shocking truth: Asimuddin is his son, making him Bipin's brother. This revelation shatters Bipin's perception of morality and duty, forcing him to confront the hypocrisy of his own values. Despite his initial shock, Bipin ultimately allows Asimuddin to regain his land, though the motivations behind this decision remain unclear. The village reacts with surprise, and the father's reputation for piety is called into question, revealing the complexities of human relationships and the often-hidden truths behind social facades. The narrative explores themes of duty, familial bonds, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in changing societal contexts.
By Rabindranath Tagore · First published 1915 · Genre: Social Realism, Drama, Literary Fiction · 3,119 words
First lines
I
Krishna Gopal Sircar, zemindar of Jhikrakota, made over his estates to his eldest son, and retired to Kasi, as befits a good Hindu, to spend the evening of his life in religious devotion. All the poor and the destitute of the neighbourhood were in tears at the parting. Every one declared that such piety and benevolence were rare in these degenerate days.
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The Riddle Solved is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rabindranath Tagore, dated 1915 CE.
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- Work type: Short story
- Author: Rabindranath Tagore
- Date: 1915 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Social Realism, Drama, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Fiction
- Length: 3,119 words
- Structure: 1 section, 54 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Social Realism — The narrative explores the socio-economic dynamics between the zemindar and his tenants, highlighting class struggles and moral dilemmas.
- Drama — The story features intense personal conflicts and emotional struggles, particularly between Bipin Bihari and Asimuddin.
- Literary Fiction — The work employs rich character development and thematic depth, focusing on morality, duty, and familial relationships.
- Historical Fiction — Set in a specific cultural and historical context, it reflects the societal norms and legal frameworks of colonial India.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Mystery · Literary Classic · Indian Literature · Psychological Insight · Symbolism · Poetic Prose · Existential Themes · Social Commentary · Cultural Context · Spiritual Quest · Self-Discovery