About Author
Anita Desai is an Indian novelist and Emeritus John E. Burchard Professor of Humanities at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She was born in 1937 and has published adult novels, children’s books and short stories. She is a member of the Advisory Board for English of the National Academy of Letters in Delhi and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in London. She has been shortlisted for the Booker prize three times. Her daughter, Kiran Desai, is also a novelist and won the Booker prize in 2006.
About Story
A Devoted Son is a short story that was originally published in her 1978 collection Games at Twilight and Other Stories. The story is about the relationship between a father and son and examines how time and perspective can change the way actions and intentions are perceived. The story explores themes such as gratitude, desire, change, longing, choice, freedom, defiance, loyalty, powerlessness and reliance.
Setting
The story is set in India, mostly in the home of Varma and his family. The story spans several years, from Rakesh’s childhood to Varma’s old age. The story also reflects the social and cultural changes that occur in India during this time period, such as modernization, urbanization, education and health care.
Language
The story is written in English, but it also includes some words and phrases from Hindi, such as “namaste”, “bhaiya”, “laddoos”, “halwa” and “kheer”. These words add to the authenticity and richness of the story’s setting and culture. The story also uses descriptive language to create vivid images of the characters and their surroundings.
Rakesh: The son of Varma and the antagonist of the story. He is a brilliant and ambitious man who becomes a successful doctor in America. He respects his father and follows his traditions, such as having an arranged marriage and living with his parents. He cares for his father’s health and tries to prolong his life with his medical knowledge. He does not understand why his father rejects his efforts and accuses him of being cruel.
Rakesh’s mother: The wife of Varma and the mother of Rakesh. She is a supportive and loving woman who worries about her husband and son. She tries to mediate between them and keep the peace in the family.
Meena: The wife of Rakesh and the daughter-in-law of Varma. She is a quiet and obedient woman who does not interfere in the family matters. She respects her husband and his parents and follows their wishes.
Viju: The son of Rakesh and Meena and the grandson of Varma. He is a spoiled and mischievous boy who likes to play with his grandfather. He is bribed by Varma to buy sweets and sneak them into the house.
Dr Biswas: The colleague and friend of Rakesh. He is a doctor who works with Rakesh at the hospital. He admires Rakesh’s skills and achievements but also warns him about the dangers of overworking and neglecting his family.
Sharma, Shukla and Mishra: The friends of Varma. They are old men who share Varma’s views on life. They visit Varma regularly and talk about politics, religion, food and health. They sympathize with Varma’s situation and criticize Rakesh’s actions.
Rakesh continues to excel in his studies and earns his MD. He wins a scholarship to study in America at a prestigious hospital, where he receives many awards. He becomes a successful doctor, but he does not forget his roots. He returns to India and agrees to marry a village girl chosen by his mother. He moves back to his childhood home with his parents and his wife, Meena. He starts working at the local city hospital, where he quickly becomes the director. He also opens his own clinic, which attracts many patients. He improves the lives of those around him with his skills and generosity.
Rakesh’s mother falls ill and dies peacefully, leaving Rakesh and Varma alone. Rakesh takes care of his father, who is growing old and weak. He changes his father’s diet and makes him take supplements and medicines. He uses his medical knowledge to prolong his father’s life. He does everything out of love and duty for his father, who has given him everything. Varma initially appreciates what his son does for him, but soon he starts to resent it.
Varma feels that his son is depriving him of his pleasures and freedoms. He misses eating his favorite foods, such as sweets and fried snacks. He thinks that his son is torturing him by making him eat bland and healthy food. He believes that his son should let him enjoy his life, even if it means risking his health or death. He accuses his son of being cruel and ungrateful. He tries to rebel against his son’s authority by bribing his grandson, Viju, to buy him sweets and sneak them into the house.
Rakesh discovers the bribe and confronts his father. He scolds him for turning his grandson into a liar and a cheat. He tells him that he is doing this for his own good, and that he should be thankful for having a devoted son like him. He does not understand why his father rejects his efforts and intentions. He thinks that he is fulfilling his duty as a son by taking care of his father’s health.
The story ends with Varma lying on his bed, feeling powerless and miserable. He wishes that he could die soon and escape from his son’s tyranny. He wonders if he has raised a monster instead of a son. He cries out for help, but no one hears him or comes to rescue him. He realizes that he is alone and helpless in the hands of his devoted son.
Gratitude: The story examines the importance and expression of gratitude in a father-son relationship. Rakesh is grateful to his father for giving him the opportunity to be successful. He shows his gratitude by touching his father’s feet, honoring his family and improving their lives. However, he also expects gratitude from his father for his efforts and care. Varma is initially grateful to his son for his achievements and devotion, but he soon forgets or ignores it. He does not thank or acknowledge his son for his actions, but accuses him of being cruel and ungrateful.
Desire: The story contrasts the desires of a father and a son and how they affect their relationship. Rakesh desires to be a successful doctor and to prolong his father’s life with his medical knowledge. He believes he is doing what is best for his father and fulfilling his duty as a son. Varma desires to enjoy his life and indulge in his pleasures, such as eating sweets and fried snacks. He believes he should have the freedom and choice to live as he wishes, even if it means risking his health or death.
Change: The story shows how change can impact a father-son relationship and how different perspectives can cope with or resist change. Rakesh changes from a poor boy to a wealthy doctor, from a student to a director, from a bachelor to a husband and father. He adapts to these changes and embraces them as opportunities and achievements. Varma changes from a proud and active man to a weak and dependent old man. He struggles with these changes and resents them as losses and limitations.
Choice: The story questions the role and importance of choice in a father-son relationship and how different values can influence choice. Rakesh chooses to respect his father’s wishes, to study hard, to return home, to marry a village girl, to live with his parents, to care for his father’s health. He makes these choices based on his values of tradition, duty, devotion and knowledge. Varma chooses to celebrate his son’s success, to indulge in his favorite foods, to rebel against his son’s authority, to bribe his grandson, to wish for death. He makes these choices based on his values of pleasure, freedom, dignity and power.
Loyalty: The story explores the meaning and expression of loyalty in a father-son relationship and how different expectations can affect loyalty. Rakesh is loyal to his family, especially his father. He does not forget or abandon them even when he becomes successful. He follows their traditions and wishes. He improves their lives with his skills and generosity. He does not understand why his father is not loyal to him in return. Varma is loyal to himself, especially his desires. He does not appreciate or accept what his son does for him. He follows his own pleasures and wishes. He tries to escape from his son’s tyranny with death. He does not understand why his son is not loyal to him in return.
Powerlessness: The story depicts the feeling and expression of powerlessness in a father-son relationship and how different reactions can cause powerlessness. Rakesh feels powerless when he cannot make his father happy or grateful for what he does for him. He tries to overcome this feeling by using his medical knowledge and authority to control his father’s life. Varma feels powerless when he cannot enjoy or choose how he lives his life. He tries to overcome this feeling by rebelling against or escaping from his son’s control.
Symbols
Food: Food symbolizes wealth, pleasure and freedom in the story. Varma enjoys eating his favorite foods, such as sweets and fried snacks, as a way of celebrating his son’s success and indulging his desires. He feels that his son is depriving him of these things by changing his diet and making him eat bland and healthy food. He tries to rebel against his son’s authority by bribing his grandson to buy him sweets and sneak them into the house.
Characters
Varma: The father of Rakesh and the protagonist of the story. He is a proud and traditional man who values his son’s achievements and devotion. He enjoys being the center of attention and indulging in his favorite foods. He becomes resentful and defiant when his son tries to control his diet and lifestyle as he grows older.Rakesh: The son of Varma and the antagonist of the story. He is a brilliant and ambitious man who becomes a successful doctor in America. He respects his father and follows his traditions, such as having an arranged marriage and living with his parents. He cares for his father’s health and tries to prolong his life with his medical knowledge. He does not understand why his father rejects his efforts and accuses him of being cruel.
Rakesh’s mother: The wife of Varma and the mother of Rakesh. She is a supportive and loving woman who worries about her husband and son. She tries to mediate between them and keep the peace in the family.
Meena: The wife of Rakesh and the daughter-in-law of Varma. She is a quiet and obedient woman who does not interfere in the family matters. She respects her husband and his parents and follows their wishes.
Viju: The son of Rakesh and Meena and the grandson of Varma. He is a spoiled and mischievous boy who likes to play with his grandfather. He is bribed by Varma to buy sweets and sneak them into the house.
Dr Biswas: The colleague and friend of Rakesh. He is a doctor who works with Rakesh at the hospital. He admires Rakesh’s skills and achievements but also warns him about the dangers of overworking and neglecting his family.
Sharma, Shukla and Mishra: The friends of Varma. They are old men who share Varma’s views on life. They visit Varma regularly and talk about politics, religion, food and health. They sympathize with Varma’s situation and criticize Rakesh’s actions.
Short Summary
A Devoted Son by Anita Desai is a short story about the relationship between a father and son and how it changes over time. The son, Rakesh, is a brilliant and successful doctor who returns to India after studying in America. He respects his father, Varma, and follows his traditions, such as having an arranged marriage and living with his parents. He also cares for his father’s health and tries to prolong his life with his medical knowledge. However, as Varma grows older and weaker, he starts to resent his son’s interference in his diet and lifestyle. He feels that his son is torturing him by taking away his pleasures and freedoms. He accuses his son of being cruel and ungrateful, and tries to rebel against his authority. He even bribes his grandson to buy him sweets and sneak them into the house. Rakesh does not understand why his father rejects his efforts and intentions. He believes he is doing his duty as a devoted son. The story explores the themes of gratitude, desire, change, choice, loyalty and powerlessness in the context of family and culture.नेपालीमा सारांश (Summary in Nepali)
अनिता देसाईद्वारा लिखित कथा "ए डिभोटेड सन" बुबा र छोराबीचको सम्बन्ध र समयसँगै कसरी परिवर्तन हुन्छ भन्ने बिषयमा केन्द्रित कथा हो। कथा राकेश नामक एक भारतीय युवकबाट सुरु हुन्छ, जसले भरखरै थाहा पाउँछ कि उसले राष्ट्रिय परीक्षामा सर्वाेत्कृष्ट अंक हासिल गरेको छ। ऊ आफ्नो परिवारमा शिक्षा प्राप्त गर्ने पहिलो सदस्य हाे । त्यसैले पनि उसका बुवाआमा ऊ माथि धेरै नै गर्व गर्छन् । उसले श्रद्धापूर्वक आफ्नो बुवा बर्माको खुट्टा छोएर आशिर्वाद लिन्छ । उसका बुवाआमाले उसको लागि एउटा पार्टीको आयोजना गर्छन् जहाँ छिमेकका सबैजना उपस्थित हुन्छन् । छिमेकीहरूले राकेशको उपलब्धि र आफ्नो परिवारप्रतिको समर्पणको खुलेरै प्रशंसा गर्छन्।
राकेशले आफ्नो पढाइमा उत्कृष्ट हुँदै मास्टर डिग्रीसम्म प्राप्त गर्छ । उसले अमेरिकाको प्रतिष्ठित अस्पतालमा अध्ययन गर्न छात्रवृत्ति पनि प्राप्त गर्छ र त्यहाँ पनि थुप्रै अवार्ड तथा पुरस्कारहरू प्राप्त गर्छ। ऊ एक सफल डाक्टर बन्न सफल हुन्छ तर उसले आफ्नो पृष्ठभूमी बिर्सदैन। ऊ भारत फर्किन्छ र आफ्नी आमाको राेजिदिएकी गाउँले केटीसँग बिहे गर्न तयार हुन्छ । ऊ आफ्ना आमाबाबु र आफ्नी श्रीमती मीनासँग आफ्नो बाल्यकालको घर फर्कन्छ । उसले स्थानीय नगर अस्पतालमा काम गर्न थाल्छ, जहाँ ऊ चाँडै उक्त अस्पतालको प्रमुख बन्छ। उसले आफ्नै क्लिनिक पनि खोल्छ, जसले धेरै बिरामीहरूलाई उपचार प्रदान गर्दछ। उसले आफ्नो सीप र उदारताको प्रयोग गरि आफ्नो वरपरका थुप्रै मानिसहरूको जीवन सुधार गर्छ।
राकेशकी आमा बिरामी हुन्छिन् र राकेश र वर्मालाई एक्लै छोडेर देहत्याग गर्छिन् । राकेशले बुढो र कमजोर हुँदै गएका आफ्ना बुबाको हेरचाह गर्छन्। उसले आफ्नो बुबाको आहारमा परिवर्तन ल्याउँछ अनि भिटामिन र अरु औषधीहरु पनि लिन लगाउँछ । उसले आफ्नो बुबाको आयु लम्ब्याउन आफ्नो चिकित्सा ज्ञानको भरपूर प्रयोग गर्छ । ऊ आफ्नो बुबाको दिलोज्यानदेखि सेवा गर्न तत्पर हुन्छ किनकी उसले जे पाएको थियो त्यो सबै आमाबुवाबाट थियो । बर्माले पनि सुरुमा त राकेशले आफ्नो लागि गरेको सेवाको कदर गर्छन् तर बिस्तारै उनी राकेशसँग रिसाउन थाल्छन्।
बर्मालाई लाग्छ कि राकेशले उनलाई आफ्नो सुख र स्वतन्त्रताबाट वञ्चित गरिरहेको छ। उनले आफ्ना मनपर्ने खानेकुराहरू, जस्तै मिठाई र भुटेको खाजाहरुलाई एकदमै याद गर्छन् । छोराले सादा र स्वस्थ खाना खुवाएर आफूमाथि यातना दिइरहेको उनी ठान्छन् । उनी यो साेच्छन् कि छोराले उनलाई आफ्नो जीवनको आनन्द लिन दिनुपर्छ, चाहे त्यसले आफ्नो स्वास्थ्यलाई जाेखिममा किन नपारोस् । उनले आफ्नो छोरालाई निर्दयी र पापी भएको आरोप लगाउँछन् । उनी आफ्नो नाति बिजुलाई सुटुक्क पैसा दिएर मिठाई किन्न लगाइ घरमा लुकाएर आफ्नो छोराको हेरचाहको विराेध गर्न खोज्छन्।
राकेशले बुबाको कर्तुत पत्ता लगाउँछ र नातिलाई त्यसरी झुठ र ठग बनाएकोमा बुबालाई गाली पनि गर्छ । उसले बुबालाई बताउँछ कि यो सब उसले उनकै भलाइको लागि गरिरहेको छ, र ऊ जस्तो समर्पित छोरा पाएकोमा उनले आभारी हुनुपर्छ। उसले बुबाले उसको प्रयास र मनसायलाई किन अस्वीकार गरिरहेका छन् भनेर बुझ्न सक्दैन । उसले त केवल आफ्ना बुवाको स्वास्थ्यको ख्याल गरेर छोराको कर्तव्य पूरा गरिरहेको ठान्छ ।
कथाको अन्त्यमा बर्मा आफ्नो ओछ्यानमा शक्तिहीन र दुखी महसुस गर्दै सुतिरहेका हुन्छन् । उनी छिट्टै मर्न चाहान्छन् ता कि उनी छोराको अत्याचारबाट मुक्त हुन चाहान्छन् । उनलाई छोराको सट्टा राक्षस पो हुर्काएको हो कि भन्ने भान पर्छ । उनले सहायताको लागि पुकार्छन् तर कसैले सुन्दैन । आफ्नो सेवक छोराको हातमा उनी एक्लो र असहाय भएको महसुस गर्छन्।
Longer Plot Summary
A Devoted Son by Anita Desai is a short story about the relationship between a father and son and how it changes over time. The story begins with Rakesh, a young Indian man, who learns that he has topped the national examinations. He is the first son in his family to receive an education, and his parents are very proud of him. He shows his respect and gratitude to his father, Varma, by touching his feet. His parents throw a party for him, and everyone in the neighborhood attends. The neighbors praise Rakesh for his achievements and devotion to his family.Rakesh continues to excel in his studies and earns his MD. He wins a scholarship to study in America at a prestigious hospital, where he receives many awards. He becomes a successful doctor, but he does not forget his roots. He returns to India and agrees to marry a village girl chosen by his mother. He moves back to his childhood home with his parents and his wife, Meena. He starts working at the local city hospital, where he quickly becomes the director. He also opens his own clinic, which attracts many patients. He improves the lives of those around him with his skills and generosity.
Rakesh’s mother falls ill and dies peacefully, leaving Rakesh and Varma alone. Rakesh takes care of his father, who is growing old and weak. He changes his father’s diet and makes him take supplements and medicines. He uses his medical knowledge to prolong his father’s life. He does everything out of love and duty for his father, who has given him everything. Varma initially appreciates what his son does for him, but soon he starts to resent it.
Varma feels that his son is depriving him of his pleasures and freedoms. He misses eating his favorite foods, such as sweets and fried snacks. He thinks that his son is torturing him by making him eat bland and healthy food. He believes that his son should let him enjoy his life, even if it means risking his health or death. He accuses his son of being cruel and ungrateful. He tries to rebel against his son’s authority by bribing his grandson, Viju, to buy him sweets and sneak them into the house.
Rakesh discovers the bribe and confronts his father. He scolds him for turning his grandson into a liar and a cheat. He tells him that he is doing this for his own good, and that he should be thankful for having a devoted son like him. He does not understand why his father rejects his efforts and intentions. He thinks that he is fulfilling his duty as a son by taking care of his father’s health.
The story ends with Varma lying on his bed, feeling powerless and miserable. He wishes that he could die soon and escape from his son’s tyranny. He wonders if he has raised a monster instead of a son. He cries out for help, but no one hears him or comes to rescue him. He realizes that he is alone and helpless in the hands of his devoted son.
Major Themes
Devotion: The story explores the meaning and consequences of devotion in a son towards his father. Rakesh shows his devotion by respecting his father’s wishes, achieving success, returning home, caring for his father’s health and following tradition. However, his devotion also becomes oppressive and suffocating for Varma, who feels that his son is taking away his freedom and dignity.Gratitude: The story examines the importance and expression of gratitude in a father-son relationship. Rakesh is grateful to his father for giving him the opportunity to be successful. He shows his gratitude by touching his father’s feet, honoring his family and improving their lives. However, he also expects gratitude from his father for his efforts and care. Varma is initially grateful to his son for his achievements and devotion, but he soon forgets or ignores it. He does not thank or acknowledge his son for his actions, but accuses him of being cruel and ungrateful.
Desire: The story contrasts the desires of a father and a son and how they affect their relationship. Rakesh desires to be a successful doctor and to prolong his father’s life with his medical knowledge. He believes he is doing what is best for his father and fulfilling his duty as a son. Varma desires to enjoy his life and indulge in his pleasures, such as eating sweets and fried snacks. He believes he should have the freedom and choice to live as he wishes, even if it means risking his health or death.
Change: The story shows how change can impact a father-son relationship and how different perspectives can cope with or resist change. Rakesh changes from a poor boy to a wealthy doctor, from a student to a director, from a bachelor to a husband and father. He adapts to these changes and embraces them as opportunities and achievements. Varma changes from a proud and active man to a weak and dependent old man. He struggles with these changes and resents them as losses and limitations.
Choice: The story questions the role and importance of choice in a father-son relationship and how different values can influence choice. Rakesh chooses to respect his father’s wishes, to study hard, to return home, to marry a village girl, to live with his parents, to care for his father’s health. He makes these choices based on his values of tradition, duty, devotion and knowledge. Varma chooses to celebrate his son’s success, to indulge in his favorite foods, to rebel against his son’s authority, to bribe his grandson, to wish for death. He makes these choices based on his values of pleasure, freedom, dignity and power.
Loyalty: The story explores the meaning and expression of loyalty in a father-son relationship and how different expectations can affect loyalty. Rakesh is loyal to his family, especially his father. He does not forget or abandon them even when he becomes successful. He follows their traditions and wishes. He improves their lives with his skills and generosity. He does not understand why his father is not loyal to him in return. Varma is loyal to himself, especially his desires. He does not appreciate or accept what his son does for him. He follows his own pleasures and wishes. He tries to escape from his son’s tyranny with death. He does not understand why his son is not loyal to him in return.
Powerlessness: The story depicts the feeling and expression of powerlessness in a father-son relationship and how different reactions can cause powerlessness. Rakesh feels powerless when he cannot make his father happy or grateful for what he does for him. He tries to overcome this feeling by using his medical knowledge and authority to control his father’s life. Varma feels powerless when he cannot enjoy or choose how he lives his life. He tries to overcome this feeling by rebelling against or escaping from his son’s control.
Symbols
Food: Food symbolizes wealth, pleasure and freedom in the story. Varma enjoys eating his favorite foods, such as sweets and fried snacks, as a way of celebrating his son’s success and indulging his desires. He feels that his son is depriving him of these things by changing his diet and making him eat bland and healthy food. He tries to rebel against his son’s authority by bribing his grandson to buy him sweets and sneak them into the house.
Feet: Feet symbolize respect, gratitude and tradition in the story. Rakesh touches his father’s feet as a sign of respect and gratitude for giving him the opportunity to be successful. This gesture also reflects his adherence to tradition and devotion to his family.
Death: Death symbolizes attention, escape and power in the story. Varma pretends to be dead as a way of getting attention from his family and friends. He feels that he is no longer the center of attention in the household, so he does things to make people notice him. He also wishes to die as a way of escaping from his son’s tyranny. He feels that he has no power or choice over his own life, so he wants to end it on his own terms.
Moral
The moral of the story could be interpreted in different ways, depending on the point of view of the reader. One possible moral is that devotion should not be blind or excessive, but balanced and respectful. Rakesh’s devotion to his father becomes oppressive and suffocating for Varma, who feels that his son is taking away his freedom and dignity. Rakesh does not listen to his father’s wishes or feelings, but imposes his own ideas of what is good for him. Another possible moral is that gratitude should not be taken for granted or forgotten, but expressed and appreciated. Varma’s gratitude for his son’s achievements and care fades away as he grows older and weaker. He does not acknowledge or thank his son for his efforts, but accuses him of being cruel and ungrateful. He does not realize how lucky he is to have a devoted son like Rakesh.Exercise
Understanding the Text
Answer the following questions.
a. How did the morning papers bring ambiance of celebration in the Varma family?
The morning papers brought ambiance of celebration in the Varma family because they announced that Rakesh had topped the national examinations. This was a great achievement for Rakesh and his family, who had worked hard and sacrificed a lot for his education. The papers also praised Rakesh for his intelligence and devotion to his family. The news made Varma and his wife very proud and happy, and they decided to throw a party for their son.
b. How did the community celebrate Rakesh’s success?
b. How did the community celebrate Rakesh’s success?
The community celebrated Rakesh’s success by attending his party and congratulating him and his parents. The neighbors brought gifts and sweets for Rakesh and praised him for his accomplishments. They also admired him for his respect and gratitude to his father, whom he touched his feet as a sign of obeisance. They also appreciated him for following his traditions and not forgetting his roots.
c. Why was Rakesh’s success a special matter of discussion in the neighbourhood?
c. Why was Rakesh’s success a special matter of discussion in the neighbourhood?
Rakesh’s success was a special matter of discussion in the neighbourhood because he was the first son in his family to receive an education. He came from a poor and humble background, but he managed to rise above his circumstances and achieve great things. He also became a role model and an inspiration for other young people in the neighbourhood, who wanted to follow his example and pursue their dreams.
d. How does the author make fun with the words ‘America’ and ‘the USA’?
d. How does the author make fun with the words ‘America’ and ‘the USA’?
The author makes fun with the words ‘America’ and ‘the USA’ by showing how different characters pronounce them differently. For example, Varma’s friends Sharma, Shukla and Mishra say ‘Amrika’ instead of ‘America’, while Varma himself says ‘the USA’ with a flourish. These variations show how unfamiliar and exotic these words are for some of the characters, who have never been to or seen these places. They also show how proud and impressed Varma is by his son’s achievements in these foreign lands.
e. How does the author characterize Rakesh’s wife?
e. How does the author characterize Rakesh’s wife?
The author characterizes Rakesh’s wife as a quiet and obedient woman who does not interfere in the family matters. She respects her husband and his parents and follows their wishes. She does not have much personality or voice of her own, but she is loyal and supportive of Rakesh. She also takes care of their son Viju, who is spoiled by his grandfather.
f. Describe how Rakesh rises in his career.
f. Describe how Rakesh rises in his career.
Rakesh rises in his career by working hard and using his intelligence and skills. He earns his MD and wins a scholarship to study in America at a prestigious hospital, where he receives many awards. He becomes a successful doctor, but he does not forget his roots. He returns to India and works at the local city hospital, where he quickly becomes the director. He also opens his own clinic, which attracts many patients. He improves the lives of those around him with his skills and generosity.
g. How does the author describe Rakesh’s family background?
g. How does the author describe Rakesh’s family background?
The author describes Rakesh’s family background as poor and humble. His father Varma works at a kerosene dealer’s depot, while his mother stays at home and takes care of him. They live in a small house with a courtyard, where they grow vegetables and flowers. They do not have much money or luxuries, but they are happy and content with what they have. They also value education and tradition, which they pass on to their son.
h. What is the impact of Rakesh’s mother’s death on his father?
h. What is the impact of Rakesh’s mother’s death on his father?
Rakesh’s mother’s death has a negative impact on his father. He feels lonely and depressed without his wife, who was his companion and support. He also feels neglected and ignored by his son, who is busy with his work and family. He loses his interest and joy in life, and becomes more irritable and bitter.
i. What did Rakesh do to make his father’s old age more comfortable?
i. What did Rakesh do to make his father’s old age more comfortable?
Rakesh did many things to make his father’s old age more comfortable. He changed his father’s diet and made him take supplements and medicines to improve his health. He bought him a television and a radio to entertain him. He hired a servant to look after him. He visited him regularly and checked on his condition.
j. Why did the old man try to bribe his grandchildren?
j. Why did the old man try to bribe his grandchildren?
The old man tried to bribe his grandchildren because he wanted to eat sweets and fried snacks, which his son had forbidden him to eat. He also wanted to have some fun and excitement in his life, which he felt was dull and boring. He also wanted to rebel against his son’s authority and show him that he still had some power and choice over his own life.
k. Are Mr. Varma’s complaints about his diets reasonable? How?
k. Are Mr. Varma’s complaints about his diets reasonable? How?
Mr. Varma’s complaints about his diets are not reasonable, because they are based on his selfish desires and not on his best interests. His son is trying to help him live longer and healthier by changing his diet and making him eat nutritious food. His son is also a doctor who knows what is good for him. Mr. Varma should appreciate what his son does for him, instead of complaining and accusing him of being cruel and ungrateful.
a. How did Varma couple make sacrifices for their son’s higher education?
Reference with the Text
a. How did Varma couple make sacrifices for their son’s higher education?
The Varma couple made sacrifices for their son’s higher education by working hard and saving money for his fees and expenses. They also gave up their own comforts and pleasures to provide him with the best opportunities. They did not complain or regret their sacrifices, but felt proud and happy for their son. For example, the text says: “They had worked hard and pinched and saved to send him to medical college; they had gone without new clothes, even without enough food at times, so that he could have books and clothes that were not a disgrace to his profession” (p. 2).
b. Mr. Varma suffers from diseases one after another after his wife’s death. Would he have enjoyed better health if she had not died before him? Give reasons.
b. Mr. Varma suffers from diseases one after another after his wife’s death. Would he have enjoyed better health if she had not died before him? Give reasons.
Mr. Varma suffers from diseases one after another after his wife’s death because he feels lonely and depressed without her. He also feels neglected and ignored by his son, who is busy with his work and family. He loses his interest and joy in life, and becomes more irritable and bitter. He does not take care of his health or follow his son’s advice. He also tries to rebel against his son’s authority by eating unhealthy food and wishing for death. If his wife had not died before him, he might have enjoyed better health because she would have been his companion and support. She would have also mediated between him and his son, and kept the peace in the family. She would have also encouraged him to take care of his health and follow his son’s advice.
c. Dr. Rakesh is divided between a doctor and a son. As a son, he loves his father and worries about his weakening health but as a doctor he is strict on his father’s diet and medicine. In your view, what else could Rakesh have done to make his father’s final years more comfortable?
c. Dr. Rakesh is divided between a doctor and a son. As a son, he loves his father and worries about his weakening health but as a doctor he is strict on his father’s diet and medicine. In your view, what else could Rakesh have done to make his father’s final years more comfortable?
Dr. Rakesh is divided between a doctor and a son. As a son, he loves his father and worries about his weakening health but as a doctor he is strict on his father’s diet and medicine. In my view, what else Rakesh could have done to make his father’s final years more comfortable are:
He could have listened to his father’s wishes and feelings, and tried to understand his perspective.
He could have compromised with his father on some of the food and treats that he liked, and allowed him to enjoy them occasionally.
He could have spent more time with his father, and given him more attention and affection.
He could have involved his father in some of the family activities, such as playing with his grandson or watching television.
He could have respected his father’s dignity and freedom, and not treated him like a child or a patient.
d. What does the story say about the relationship between grandfather and grand children?
d. What does the story say about the relationship between grandfather and grand children?
The story says that the relationship between grandfather and grandchildren is complex and contradictory. On one hand, the grandfather loves his grandchildren and likes to play with them. He also bribes them to buy him sweets and sneak them into the house. He tries to make them his allies against his son’s authority. On the other hand, the grandchildren are spoiled by their grandfather and learn to lie and cheat from him. They also do not respect or obey their grandfather, but mock him or ignore him. They do not understand or appreciate their grandfather’s situation or feelings.
e. Do you call Rakesh a devoted son? Give reasons.
e. Do you call Rakesh a devoted son? Give reasons.
I do not call Rakesh a devoted son because he does not respect or appreciate his father’s wishes or feelings. He does not listen to or communicate with his father, but imposes his own ideas of what is good for him. He does not compromise or balance with his father on some of the things that he likes or enjoys. He does not spend enough time or attention with his father, but neglects him or ignores him. He does not respect or honor his father’s dignity or freedom, but treats him like a child or a patient. He does not understand or empathize with his father’s perspective or situation, but accuses him of being ungrateful or unreasonable.
a. Write an essay on The Parents’ Ambition for their Children in Nepali Society. You must give at least five examples.
Parents have great ambition for their children in Nepali society. They want their children to be successful, respected and happy in life. They also want their children to follow their traditions, values and culture. They often have high expectations and dreams for their children’s education, career and marriage. They try to provide them with the best opportunities and guidance they can. However, sometimes their ambition can also create problems and conflicts for their children. In this essay, I will give at least five examples of how parents’ ambition affects their children in Nepali society.
First example is the pressure to study hard and get good marks. Many parents want their children to be the best students in their class or school. They want them to get scholarships, awards and admission to prestigious colleges or universities. They also want them to choose certain subjects or fields that they think are more valuable or profitable, such as science, engineering, medicine or law. They often compare their children with other children and criticize them if they do not perform well. This can make their children feel stressed, anxious and depressed. It can also affect their self-esteem, creativity and interest in learning.
Another example is the interference in their career choices and decisions. Many parents want their children to follow their footsteps or fulfill their unfulfilled dreams. They want them to join their family business or profession or take over their responsibilities. They also want them to earn a lot of money and fame and have a secure and stable job. They often discourage them from pursuing their own passions or talents that they think are risky or not suitable for them, such as arts, sports, social work or entrepreneurship. This can make their children feel frustrated, unhappy and dissatisfied with their work. It can also affect their potential, growth and satisfaction in life.
A third example is the influence on their marriage and family life. Many parents want their children to marry someone of their own choice or approval. They want them to marry someone from the same caste, religion, culture or background as them. They also want them to marry someone who is well-educated, well-settled and well-behaved. They often arrange or force them to marry someone they do not know or love. They also interfere in their personal matters and relationships with their spouses or in-laws. This can make their children feel trapped, unhappy and resentful in their marriage. It can also affect their freedom, love and harmony in their family.
A fourth example is the expectation to be obedient and devoted to them. Many parents want their children to respect and obey them at all times. They want them to follow their rules, advice and wishes without question or argument. They also want them to be grateful and loyal to them for everything they have done for them. They often demand or manipulate them to do things for them or agree with them even if they do not want to or disagree with them. They also criticize or punish them if they do not meet their expectations or standards. This can make their children feel guilty, angry and rebellious towards them. It can also affect their independence, confidence and identity.
A fifth example is the neglect of their own needs and happiness. Many parents sacrifice a lot for their children’s welfare and future. They work hard and save money for their education and expenses. They also give up their own comforts and pleasures to provide them with the best facilities and opportunities. However, sometimes they forget or ignore their own needs and happiness in the process. They do not take care of their health or well-being. They do not enjoy or pursue their own hobbies or interests. They do not spend quality time with each other or with themselves. This can make them feel tired, unhappy and unfulfilled in life.
In conclusion, parents’ ambition for their children can have both positive and negative effects on them in Nepali society. It can motivate them to work hard and achieve success in life but it can also create stress and dissatisfaction for them. It can guide them to make good choices and decisions but it can also limit their options and freedom. It can show them love and care but it can also cause problems and conflicts for them.
b. Medicines replace our diets in the old age. What can be done to make old age less dependent on medicine?
As people grow older, they may need to take more medicines to treat or prevent various health problems. However, medicines can also have side effects and interactions that can affect their quality of life and well-being. Therefore, it is important to find ways to make old age less dependent on medicine and more reliant on healthy diets and lifestyles. Here are some suggestions:
Maintain healthy behaviours throughout life. Eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity and refraining from tobacco use can reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. These diseases often require long-term use of medicines and can cause complications and disabilities. By preventing or delaying these diseases, older people can reduce their need for medicines and improve their physical and mental capacity.
Consult with health care providers before starting or stopping any medicine. Older people should talk to their doctors, pharmacists or nurses about all the medicines they take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements and herbal remedies. They should also inform them about any allergies or problems they have experienced with other medicines. This can help them avoid unwanted or harmful drug interactions and side effects. They should also follow the instructions and dosages carefully and report any changes or concerns to their health care providers.
Review and update the list of medicines regularly. Older people should keep an up-to-date list of all the medicines they take and share it with their health care providers and family members. They should also check the expiration dates on their medicine bottles and discard any unused or expired medicines as soon as possible. This can help them avoid taking unnecessary or outdated medicines that may not work well or may be harmful. They should also ask their health care providers if they can reduce or stop taking any of their medicines safely and effectively.
Use alternative or complementary therapies with caution. Some older people may use alternative or complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, yoga or meditation, to treat or prevent some health conditions or to enhance their well-being. These therapies may have some benefits, but they may also have some risks or limitations. Therefore, older people should consult with their health care providers before using any of these therapies and inform them about any other medicines they take. They should also use these therapies only from qualified and reputable practitioners and sources.
Seek social and emotional support. Medicines are not the only way to cope with the challenges and changes of old age. Older people can also benefit from having social and emotional support from their family members, friends, neighbours or community groups. They can also join activities or hobbies that interest them and give them a sense of purpose and enjoyment. These can help them reduce stress, loneliness and depression, which can affect their health and well-being. They can also improve their self-esteem, confidence and resilience, which can help them cope better with their health problems and medicines.
By following these suggestions, older people can make their old age less dependent on medicine and more dependent on healthy diets and lifestyles. This can help them live longer and healthier lives with more dignity and happiness.
c. Write an essay on “Care of Elderly Citizens” in about 300 words.
There are many ways to take care of elderly citizens. Some of them are:
Reference beyond Subject
a. Write an essay on The Parents’ Ambition for their Children in Nepali Society. You must give at least five examples.
The Parents’ Ambition for their Children in Nepali Society
Parents have great ambition for their children in Nepali society. They want their children to be successful, respected and happy in life. They also want their children to follow their traditions, values and culture. They often have high expectations and dreams for their children’s education, career and marriage. They try to provide them with the best opportunities and guidance they can. However, sometimes their ambition can also create problems and conflicts for their children. In this essay, I will give at least five examples of how parents’ ambition affects their children in Nepali society.
First example is the pressure to study hard and get good marks. Many parents want their children to be the best students in their class or school. They want them to get scholarships, awards and admission to prestigious colleges or universities. They also want them to choose certain subjects or fields that they think are more valuable or profitable, such as science, engineering, medicine or law. They often compare their children with other children and criticize them if they do not perform well. This can make their children feel stressed, anxious and depressed. It can also affect their self-esteem, creativity and interest in learning.
Another example is the interference in their career choices and decisions. Many parents want their children to follow their footsteps or fulfill their unfulfilled dreams. They want them to join their family business or profession or take over their responsibilities. They also want them to earn a lot of money and fame and have a secure and stable job. They often discourage them from pursuing their own passions or talents that they think are risky or not suitable for them, such as arts, sports, social work or entrepreneurship. This can make their children feel frustrated, unhappy and dissatisfied with their work. It can also affect their potential, growth and satisfaction in life.
A third example is the influence on their marriage and family life. Many parents want their children to marry someone of their own choice or approval. They want them to marry someone from the same caste, religion, culture or background as them. They also want them to marry someone who is well-educated, well-settled and well-behaved. They often arrange or force them to marry someone they do not know or love. They also interfere in their personal matters and relationships with their spouses or in-laws. This can make their children feel trapped, unhappy and resentful in their marriage. It can also affect their freedom, love and harmony in their family.
A fourth example is the expectation to be obedient and devoted to them. Many parents want their children to respect and obey them at all times. They want them to follow their rules, advice and wishes without question or argument. They also want them to be grateful and loyal to them for everything they have done for them. They often demand or manipulate them to do things for them or agree with them even if they do not want to or disagree with them. They also criticize or punish them if they do not meet their expectations or standards. This can make their children feel guilty, angry and rebellious towards them. It can also affect their independence, confidence and identity.
A fifth example is the neglect of their own needs and happiness. Many parents sacrifice a lot for their children’s welfare and future. They work hard and save money for their education and expenses. They also give up their own comforts and pleasures to provide them with the best facilities and opportunities. However, sometimes they forget or ignore their own needs and happiness in the process. They do not take care of their health or well-being. They do not enjoy or pursue their own hobbies or interests. They do not spend quality time with each other or with themselves. This can make them feel tired, unhappy and unfulfilled in life.
In conclusion, parents’ ambition for their children can have both positive and negative effects on them in Nepali society. It can motivate them to work hard and achieve success in life but it can also create stress and dissatisfaction for them. It can guide them to make good choices and decisions but it can also limit their options and freedom. It can show them love and care but it can also cause problems and conflicts for them.
b. Medicines replace our diets in the old age. What can be done to make old age less dependent on medicine?
As people grow older, they may need to take more medicines to treat or prevent various health problems. However, medicines can also have side effects and interactions that can affect their quality of life and well-being. Therefore, it is important to find ways to make old age less dependent on medicine and more reliant on healthy diets and lifestyles. Here are some suggestions:
Maintain healthy behaviours throughout life. Eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity and refraining from tobacco use can reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. These diseases often require long-term use of medicines and can cause complications and disabilities. By preventing or delaying these diseases, older people can reduce their need for medicines and improve their physical and mental capacity.
Consult with health care providers before starting or stopping any medicine. Older people should talk to their doctors, pharmacists or nurses about all the medicines they take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements and herbal remedies. They should also inform them about any allergies or problems they have experienced with other medicines. This can help them avoid unwanted or harmful drug interactions and side effects. They should also follow the instructions and dosages carefully and report any changes or concerns to their health care providers.
Review and update the list of medicines regularly. Older people should keep an up-to-date list of all the medicines they take and share it with their health care providers and family members. They should also check the expiration dates on their medicine bottles and discard any unused or expired medicines as soon as possible. This can help them avoid taking unnecessary or outdated medicines that may not work well or may be harmful. They should also ask their health care providers if they can reduce or stop taking any of their medicines safely and effectively.
Use alternative or complementary therapies with caution. Some older people may use alternative or complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, yoga or meditation, to treat or prevent some health conditions or to enhance their well-being. These therapies may have some benefits, but they may also have some risks or limitations. Therefore, older people should consult with their health care providers before using any of these therapies and inform them about any other medicines they take. They should also use these therapies only from qualified and reputable practitioners and sources.
Seek social and emotional support. Medicines are not the only way to cope with the challenges and changes of old age. Older people can also benefit from having social and emotional support from their family members, friends, neighbours or community groups. They can also join activities or hobbies that interest them and give them a sense of purpose and enjoyment. These can help them reduce stress, loneliness and depression, which can affect their health and well-being. They can also improve their self-esteem, confidence and resilience, which can help them cope better with their health problems and medicines.
By following these suggestions, older people can make their old age less dependent on medicine and more dependent on healthy diets and lifestyles. This can help them live longer and healthier lives with more dignity and happiness.
c. Write an essay on “Care of Elderly Citizens” in about 300 words.
Care of Elderly Citizens
Elderly citizens are people who are 60 years or older. They are an important and valuable part of our society. They have contributed to the development and progress of our country. They also have a lot of wisdom and experience to share with us. However, elderly citizens also face many challenges and problems as they age. They may suffer from physical and mental health issues, such as chronic diseases, disabilities, dementia, depression and loneliness. They may also face social and economic difficulties, such as poverty, isolation, abuse, neglect and discrimination. Therefore, it is our duty and responsibility to take care of elderly citizens and ensure their well-being and dignity.
There are many ways to take care of elderly citizens. Some of them are:
- Provide them with quality health care and social services. Elderly citizens need access to affordable and appropriate health care and social services that can meet their needs and preferences. They also need support and guidance from health care professionals, social workers and caregivers who can help them manage their conditions and improve their quality of life. For example, they may need home care, assisted living, nursing homes, hospice care or adult daycare services depending on their situation.
- Respect their rights and choices. Elderly citizens have the right to make their own decisions about their health care, living arrangements, finances and personal matters. They also have the right to be treated with respect and dignity by their family members, friends, neighbours and society. We should not interfere with their rights and choices unless they are unable to make sound judgments or are in danger of harming themselves or others. We should also not discriminate against them based on their age, gender, race, religion or disability.
- Involve them in family and community activities. Elderly citizens need social and emotional support from their family members and friends. They also need to feel valued and useful by participating in family and community activities that interest them and give them a sense of purpose and enjoyment. We should spend quality time with them, listen to them, share with them and learn from them. We should also encourage them to join clubs, groups or organizations that can provide them with opportunities for social interaction, learning, volunteering or recreation.
- Promote healthy lifestyles for them. Elderly citizens can improve their health and well-being by adopting healthy lifestyles that can prevent or delay the onset of diseases and disabilities. They can do this by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco use and alcohol abuse, managing stress and getting enough sleep. They can also benefit from preventive measures such as vaccinations, screenings and check-ups that can detect and treat health problems early.
Sources
- A Devoted Son Summary and Study Guide | SuperSummary. https://www.supersummary.com/a-devoted-son/summary/ Accessed 4/11/2023.
- A Devoted Son Summary - eNotes.com. https://www.enotes.com/topics/devoted-son Accessed 4/11/2023.
- A Devoted Son by Anita Desai - Summary & Exercise - ELTES. https://www.acharyar.com.np/2022/01/summary-of-story-devoted-son-by-anita.html Accessed 4/11/2023. Desai, Anita.
- “A Devoted Son.” The Penguin Book of Modern Indian Short Stories, edited by Stephen Alter and Wimal Dissanayake, Penguin Books, 1991, pp. 1-12.
- World Health Organization. “Ageing and Health.” WHO, 1 Oct. 2022, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ageing-and-health.
- Haseltine, William A. “Top 10 Tips For Caring For Older Adults.” Forbes, 10 Jan. 2020, https://www.forbes.com/sites/williamhaseltine/2020/01/10/top-10-tips-for-caring-for-older-adults/
- Desai, Anita. “A Devoted Son.” The Penguin Book of Modern Indian Short Stories, edited by Stephen Alter and Wimal Dissanayake, Penguin Books, 1991, pp. 1-12.
- “A Devoted Son Analysis.” eNotes Publishing, https://www.enotes.com/topics/devoted-son/analysis.
- “A Devoted Son Summary and Study Guide.” SuperSummary, https://www.supersummary.com/a-devoted-son/summary/.
- “A Devoted Son Summary.” eNotes Publishing, https://www.enotes.com/topics/devoted-son.