Where It All Goes Down
India
Whether Koly's at home in the village, traveling to Varanasi where the magical Ganges is, or setting up a new life in Vrindavan, we're always in India in this book. The vibrant setting helps set the backdrop for what's taking place, but it also tells us a lot about the traditions and expectations of Koly's family.
There are different rules for girls than boys—for instance, Koly can't go to school because she has to learn to do household chores. And when it comes to marriage, by dominant cultural tradition, Koly has no say in it (though she shirks society's expectations and makes up her own mind when it comes to Raji). Adding to her troubles is the fact that widows are seen as undesirable, leaving Koly with an uphill climb at a very young age.
The setting is absolutely key because of all this. In a different place and time, Koly would likely have very different rules imposed on her experience—but in India, the customs and rules help shape Koly's life in significant ways.