What other characters help Koly understand her worth?

The choice highlighting Raji and her supportive fellow widows in the ashram is significant in illustrating how Koly begins to understand her worth. Throughout her journey, Koly faces numerous challenges and hardships, primarily stemming from her status as a young widow. The women she meets in the ashram offer her companionship and empathy, sharing their own experiences and struggles. This connection fosters a sense of community, allowing Koly to recognize that she is not alone in her suffering.

Raji, in particular, serves as a figure of strength and resilience, demonstrating to Koly that life can continue meaningfully despite the societal stigmas surrounding widowhood. The mutual support and encouragement among the widows help Koly to develop a sense of identity and self-worth outside the traditional expectations placed upon her. As they share their stories, Koly learns about the importance of solidarity and begins to see her own value in a society that often marginalizes women like her. This validation from fellow widows contrasts significantly with the experiences and perceptions she encounters from others, such as her parents or the broader society, who may not always recognize or affirm her individuality.