Understanding Rabal - A Term Used to Describe Divorced or Abandoned Women in South Asia

Rabal (also spelled as Rabel or Rabail) is a term used in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in Pakistan and Bangladesh, to refer to a woman who has been divorced or abandoned by her husband. The word is derived from the Arabic language and is commonly used in Urdu and other regional languages spoken in the region.

In some cases, rabal may also be used as an honorific title for a woman who has been widowed or has lost her husband due to other circumstances. However, the term can also carry negative connotations, as it is sometimes associated with social stigma and shame.

It's worth noting that the use of the term rabal varies across different regions and communities in South Asia, and its meaning and cultural significance may differ depending on the context.