NCERT · Class 10 · English · Footprints Without Feet: BholiHow did Bholi react to the greedy demand made by Bishamber Nath at the time of their marriage?

When the greedy bridegroom Bishamber Nath demanded five thousand rupees as dowry to proceed with the wedding, Bholi's father Ramlal wept bitterly, placed his turban at Bishamber's feet, and even managed to arrange two thousand rupees. However, Bishamber remained adamant and refused to budge from his greedy demand. At this crucial juncture, Bholi stood up and emerged as a completely transformed, courageous, and self-respecting woman. She threw away her bridal garland into the fire with utmost contempt and told her father to take back the money. In a clear, steady, and loud voice without the slightest trace of a stammer, she firmly refused to marry such a mean, greedy, and cowardly old man. Her bold and fearless reaction stunned everyone present at the ceremony, as they watched a timid and backward girl turn into a fiercely independent individual who refused to compromise her dignity for anything.