Character sketch of Mena

Character Sketch of Mena 

Mena Gurjari is the protagonist of the folktale Mena Gurjari, a courageous, independent, and self-respecting woman from Gujarat. She stands as a symbol of bravery, wit, and honor, challenging both societal norms and the arrogance of the powerful.

1. Physical Appearance: Beauty with Simplicity

Mena is described as an extremely beautiful young woman, graceful in her movements and radiant in her appearance.

• She is sixteen years old—young, energetic, and full of life.

• She wears a ghagra-choli and odhni, the traditional attire of Gujarat.

• Though she wears jewelry, it is made of base metals and glass beads, showing her simplicity.

• Her beauty is so striking that everyone who sees her is captivated, even the Crown Prince.

 Mena’s beauty represents natural charm and purity, which is in contrast to the artificial luxuries of the Prince’s harem.

2. Personality Traits: A Woman of Strength and Integrity

Mena is not just beautiful—she is bold, independent, and fearless.

Key Traits:

(1)  Courageous and Fearless:

She boldly resists the Prince’s advances, despite his power. Even when kidnapped, she does not lose hope and finds a way to send for help. She challenges the Prince without hesitation, showing no fear. When the Prince threatens her, she fearlessly responds:
"Don’t try to scare me. If I slap you, your turban will fly in the air."

(2) Independent and Hardworking:

She wakes up early, fetches water, sells curd in the market, and returns before noon. She does not rely on luxury; instead, she enjoys her simple rural life.  Her hard work represents self-reliance and dignity.

(3) Witty and Sharp-Tongued:  

She replies to the Prince’s flattery with humor and sarcasm. Instead of fearing his threats, she mocks his moustaches, his elephant, and even the women in his harem. for example, When the Prince brags about his moustaches, she retorts:
"What is so great about them? They look like a goat's tail!"

(4) Devoted and Loyal:  

She remains completely devoted to her husband, Chandio, rejecting all temptations.She insists: "I am true to my man. I am his queen. I shall be his queen for life." Mena represents the ideal of loyalty and marital honor.

(5) Religious and Faithful: 

She believes in Goddess Kali and prays for protection. When she is kidnapped, she does not lose hope and prays for divine help. e.g. "No harm will come to me. Goddess Kali shall always defend me."

(6) Proud of Her Identity:

She speaks with pride about her home and culture. When asked where she belongs, she proudly says: "I am Mena. Gadh Gokul is my home now. I am the wife of Chandio the Chieftain." She values her roots, her community, and her self-respect more than wealth or power.

3. Conflict and Strength in Adversity

Mena’s strength is tested throughout the story:

1. Against the Prince’s Temptation: She refuses to be lured by riches and power.

2. Against Kidnapping: She does not surrender and secretly sends for help.

3. Against Society’s Judgment: Even after being rescued, she is rejected by her mother-in-law, showing the harsh reality of societal expectations.

4. Against Fate: In the end, when society fails her, she transcends into Goddess Mahakali, showing her divine strength.

4. Mena as a Symbol

Mena represents several powerful ideas:
Bravery – She stands up against injustice.
Self-Respect – She does not compromise her dignity.
Loyalty – She remains true to her husband.
Women’s Strength – She proves that women are not weak or dependent.
Divine Power – In the end, she transforms into Goddess Mahakali, symbolizing female strength and justice.

5.  A Timeless Heroine

Mena Gurjari is a legendary folk heroine whose story has been passed down through generations. She is admired for her courage, wit, loyalty, and resilience. Despite facing temptation, threats, and rejection, she remains true to herself and her values. Her transformation into Goddess Mahakali reflects her divine strength and lasting impact.

Even today, Mena’s story continues to inspire, proving that honor and bravery are greater than power and wealth.