Your mother had a dream, a few days after you were born. A sadhu came to her in the dream, and he said if we named you Poornima, we’d have a boy next.
-- Poornima's Father (Section 1, Chapter 1)

Importance: The quote establishes that value Poornima’s father puts on sons over a daughter. He agrees to name his daughter Poornima so that he will have sons.

And then she said, Everything is already written in the stars, Poornima. By the gods. We can’t alter a thing. So what do it matter?
-- Poornima's Mother (Section 1, Chapter 1)

Importance: The quote explains one of the reasons why Poornima may be compliant with what is expected of her. If fate is in control, then there is nothing that Poornima can do to prevent what will happen to her and she should just submit.

They just want to make certain that you will listen. That you’ll be obedient. And now they know. They...
-- Poornima's Aunt (Section 1, Chapter 3)