what contribution does the first scene where dukhi and his wife plan how to receive the pandit make to the whole story

Hello

Dukhi and his wife Jhuriya are introduced in the first segment. Both of them are preparing for the Brahman's arrival. Dukhi is a tanner, and tanners are considered untouchables in Hindu society. Their job include handling skins and removing deceased animals. They are members of society's lowest echelon. He is named Dukhi (sorrowful) to fend against evil, which is ironic. In the Dukhi family, there is a flurry of activity. Dukhi is cleaning the floor clean, while his wife is laying down cow manure. Cow excrement is said to be cleansing and purifying.

Surprisingly, Dukhi and his wife are debating how to make their home suitable for the arrival of a holy man, the Brahman. We get a peek of the prevailing social norms in the community. No one would offer them even a pot of water if they begged for it due to caste hierarchies. So, instead of a cot, they make a Mohwa leaf mat for the Brahman to sit on when he comes to visit. They must also make an offering to the Brahmans, but they cannot do it in their own utensil since it is deemed filthy. As a result, they decide to serve food on a leaf once more. Jhuri is urged to purchase the offering from the village trader but not to touch anything since the untouchable's touch is unclean.She is encouraged to seek the assistance of a gond girl, a tribal girl. Because the tribes are not Hindu, they are exempt from the strict caste norms. Dukhi compiles a list of offerings to be made, which, given Dukhi's standing, appears to be pretty remarkable. Finally, he departs for the Pandit's home, bearing a large bundle of grass as a gift.

This portion not only introduces us to the major characters and the place, but it also reveals the tension and hypocrisy that exist in a rigid, caste-based society in a very subtle way. While Dukhi is seen as an untouchable whose touch pollutes all he touches, the Brahman accepts his offerings and gifts.Dukhi is a marginalised member of society. He has no rights, only responsibilities. Dukhi, on the other hand, appears to be a willing participant in the system's continuation. He appears ready because he is kept in the dark and led to believe that the Brahman is actually a holy man.

Hope this help