Rebati

 (e-content developed by Prof. (Dr) N. A. Jarandikar)

“Rebati” is a short story written by Fakir Mohan Senapati, a famous writer in Odia language. This story is considered as the first modern short story in Odia and was published in 1898. It talks about important issues like women’s education and empowerment.

The story’s main character is Rebati, a ten-year-old girl. Her father, Shyambandhu, works for a rich landowner and collects taxes. Even though their income is low, they manage their expenses. Rebati is a smart girl. Another important character is Basudev, a young and handsome teacher, who belongs to the same caste as Shyambandhu. Shyambandhu dreams of giving Rebati a good education and talks to Basudev about it. Basudev likes the idea, and Rebati is excited about learning. The only person against this is Rebati’s grandmother, who doesn’t want her to study. Shyambandhu ignores his mother’s objections, and Rebati begins her education. In a few years, she becomes a fluent reader.

At this point, it seems like the story will have a happy ending, but then their family faces a series of tragedies. Shyambandhu gets sick and dies from cholera. Rebati’s mother also falls ill and passes away. The rich landowner takes back their land, making their financial situation worse. Basudev tries to help, but they refuse it.

Things get even worse when Basudev, while returning from one office visit, falls ill and dies. This devastates Rebati, and her grandmother blames her for the family’s problems, saying it’s because she wanted an education. Rebati also falls sick, and after six days of high fever and unconsciousness, she dies. The story ends with the news that Rebati’s grandmother has passed away too.

This story mainly focuses on the importance of women’s education. Even though the grandmother wrongly blames Rebati’s education for their troubles, it will be incorrect to say that the writer is against women’s education. Fakir Mohan Senapati shows the challenges women face in a society dominated by men. Shyambandhu, Basudev, and Rebati fought for women’s education and empowerment, even though they didn’t succeed. Their struggle can be seen as an inspiration because great literature inspires us to live a more meaningful life.

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