Pari – A Masterpiece Servant Character Presented by Rama Mehta

Abstract

Normally, the servant-characters are anonymous and occupy very little space in literature. They are usually the silent characters. But Rama Mehta, in Inside the Haveli, portrays a host of maid servants having their own identity and individuality. They are given sufficient space and freedom. Pari occupies almost equal space as that of her mistress in the novel. Pari becomes an integral part of the family, haveli and narrative. She carries out the responsibility of making the daughter-in-law of the haveli familiar with the tradition. She plays a major role in shaping the personalities and relationships of the masters and maids. She, with her maturity, wisdom and experience, affects the point of view of the people around her. She is sensitive and sensible. Her qualities and conduct commands respect.