The Enigmatic W: A Tale of Feminine Wit and Wisdom
( based on true story)
By Lokanath Mishra
Naresh, a young and unmarried advocate, embarked on a journey to another city for urgent work. As he traversed the winding roads, the scorching sun and relentless hunger pangs forced him to seek refuge in a quaint restaurant.
The restaurant, nestled in a tranquil setting, seemed deserted except for a stunning young woman who sat alone at the counter. Her captivating smile and striking features left Naresh spellbound. He approached her, requesting water and food, and they exchanged pleasantries.
As they conversed, Naresh discovered that she was unmarried. Her beauty, youth, and single status sparked a fleeting thought, and he impulsively proposed marriage. The woman was taken aback by the sudden proposal and chose to maintain a stoic silence, leaving Naresh wondering about her response.
As Naresh finished his meal and prepared to leave, he asked the woman, “Can you enlighten me about the character of women?” Her reaction was astonishing. She rushed to a nearby water pot, screaming for help, and the villagers hastened towards the restaurant.
Perplexed, Naresh asked her, “Why are you doing this?” Her response was a stark revelation: “So that the villagers can teach you a lesson and bring you back to your senses.” Chastened, Naresh apologized for his earlier audacity, realizing he had misjudged her character.
In a dramatic turn of events, the woman drenched herself with water from the pot, and the villagers, arriving at the scene, inquired about the commotion. With a clever twist, she fabricated a story, praising Naresh as her savior who had rescued her from a fire.
The villagers, duped by her tale, lauded Naresh as a hero, showering him with accolades and rewards. As the villagers departed, the enigmatic woman turned to Naresh and said, “Now, do you comprehend the feminine character of women? If you cause pain or distress to a woman, she will strip you of your happiness and peace. Conversely, if you treat her with kindness and respect, she will protect you from the jaws of death.”
Just then, the woman’s parents arrived, and after hearing Naresh’s proposal, they agreed to the marriage. Naresh realized that the woman’s character was multifaceted, comprising wisdom, wit, and resilience. Her clever ploy had not only taught him a lesson but also showcased her resourcefulness and ability to think on her feet.
This encounter left an indelible mark on Naresh’s perception of women. He learned that women are not to be underestimated or objectified. They possess a unique blend of intelligence, emotional depth, and strength, which deserves our respect, appreciation, and empathy. As we navigate the complexities of human relationships, let us strive to understand and cherish the feminine spirit, for it is a treasure trove of wisdom, love, and inspiration.