In a toweing rage Malki summons Mithi, the barber’s wife and commands her to bring Heer to her. Triggered by Kaido, she pours a stream of abuse upon her daughter using colorful language, which will sound familiar to Punjabis who have ever had the pleasure of being berated by their grandmothers, or have heard them taking someone to task. Under the invective lies love, concern for her daughter and fear that her reputation will be ruined.

Chagrined at being rebuffed by Chuchak, Kaido approaches Malki to vent his spleen. He warns her that her daughter’s brazen ways will bring her much trouble and he urges Malki to chastise her. Kaido, waxing hyperbolic in this verse, as he suggests improbably harsh punishments for Heer, almost appears comical, until one reflects on what is behind the words. Waris Shah is conveying the simmering menace of violence, which lurks under the surface in a society where notions of honor and shame predominate and can often result in unimaginable consequences for young women accused of sexual misconduct.

This verse provides social commentary on the patriarchy, honor and the control of ‘wayward daughters’. A society that elevates the collective at the expense of the individual cannot accept Heer’s haughtiness and pride; the women allege that she comports herself like a queen! Class distinctions also come to the fore; while it is inappropriate for the young, unmarried Heer to spend time with any man, her transgression is compounded by Ranjha’s being a ‘mere’ servant. The Qazi, emblematic of a highly judgemental and unforgiving society, of course provides a ready solution – marry her off and save the family’s honor, while reiterating that not doing so will invite divine judgement and retribution.