3rd Story
A Devoted Son
By Anita Desai
"A
Devoted Son" by Anita Desai is about a loving son named Rakesh who becomes
a successful doctor and takes care of his old father, Varma. At first, the
family is happy and proud of him. But later, the father feels unhappy when
Rakesh controls his food and medicine. The story shows the difference between
caring and controlling, and the gap between old and new generations.
About the author
"A Devoted Son" is a short story by Anita
Desai, a famous Indian writer. Desai is well-known for writing about family
life, human relationships, and deep emotions. In this story, she shows the relationship between a loving son
and his old father. The story also talks about the differences between old
traditions and modern thinking.
Setting
The story takes place in a middle-class family
home in India, in a quiet city area. It shows modern Indian life and how family
roles are changing. It also reflects how people in India value respect for
elders, family duty, and what others think of them.
Plot
In "A Devoted Son," Rakesh is a
smart and obedient son who becomes a successful doctor, making his parents
proud. But when his father grows old, Rakesh's strict care—though meant with
love—makes his father feel unhappy and trapped. The story shows how love and
duty can sometimes hurt more than help.
Main Characters
Rakesh
Rakesh is the “devoted son” of the
story. A brilliant and respectful young man, he rises from a modest background
to become a successful doctor. Despite his achievements, he remains loyal to
his family, especially his father. His devotion, however, takes on a
controlling form as he insists on strict medical care for his aging father,
leading to emotional tension.
Varma (Rakesh’s father)
Mr. Varma is a proud father who
once delighted in his son's success. As he grows old and weak, he struggles
with Rakesh’s strict rules regarding his diet and medicine. He feels frustrated
and helpless, believing that his son has taken away his small joys under the
guise of care.
Rakesh’s mother (Mrs. Varma)
Though a minor character, she
represents the traditional, quiet Indian mother. She supports the family but
does not interfere much in the conflicts between Rakesh and his father.
Rakesh’s wife
She plays a background role,
managing the household and raising children, but doesn’t directly affect the
central father-son conflict.
Note:
These characters reflect a typical
Indian family setup and highlight the emotional complexities in
relationships where love and care sometimes become sources of control
and misunderstanding.
Themes
The short story "A
Devoted Son" by Anita Desai explores several deep and
meaningful themes. Here are the main themes:
1. Duty and Devotion
The story focuses on Rakesh’s devotion to
his parents, especially his father. Even after achieving success as a
doctor, he remains obedient and respectful. It shows how traditional
Indian values emphasize respect for elders and filial duty.
2. Generational Conflict
The difference in perspective between
Rakesh and his father, Varma, reflects a common clash between the old and
the new generations. Varma expects freedom in old age, while Rakesh tries
to control his diet strictly, believing it's best for his health.
3. Aging and Loneliness
The story depicts the loneliness,
helplessness, and frustration of old age. Varma feels neglected and
imprisoned despite his son’s care, showing the emotional struggle of
elderly people.
4. Expectations vs Reality
Varma had high hopes for Rakesh’s success,
which were fulfilled, but he didn’t expect his son’s devotion to become
strict control. It reflects how love and care can sometimes feel
oppressive when personal freedom is taken away.
5. Tradition vs Modernity
Rakesh represents
modern, educated India, while Varma symbolizes traditional values and
pride. The story highlights the tension between traditional parental
authority and modern, professional reasoning.
Summary
A Devoted Son by Anita Desai tells
the story of Rakesh, a bright and ambitious young man from a modest Indian
family, and his relationship with his father, Mr. Verma. Rakesh, the first in
his family to receive an education, excels academically and becomes a
successful doctor, much to the pride of his parents. His achievements bring
great joy to his father, who had always dreamed of seeing his son succeed.
Rakesh remains humble despite his success, marrying a girl chosen by his
parents and staying close to home to care for them, reflecting his deep respect
for family values.
As Mr. Verma grows older,
his health begins to decline, and Rakesh takes on the responsibility of caring
for him. Although his care is driven by love and duty, Mr. Verma starts to
resent the restrictions Rakesh imposes on his diet and lifestyle. Rakesh
insists on monitoring his father’s health strictly, limiting the sweets and
rich foods that Mr. Verma enjoys. This creates frustration for Mr. Verma, who
feels stripped of small pleasures in his old age. His pride prevents him from accepting
Rakesh’s medical advice, and he begins to view his son’s devotion as
controlling rather than caring.
Tension grows between
father and son, highlighting a generational gap. Mr. Verma, who once took
immense pride in Rakesh’s accomplishments, now feels alienated by the very
success he had once encouraged. Rakesh, on the other hand, continues to fulfill
his responsibilities dutifully, unaware of the emotional distance growing
between them. Family members, including Rakesh’s wife and children, observe the
strained relationship but remain on the sidelines, unable to intervene.
In the end, Mr. Verma’s
stubbornness and refusal to comply with Rakesh’s care lead to his decline.
Despite Rakesh’s best efforts, Mr. Verma’s health worsens, and he eventually
passes away. The story closes with Rakesh continuing his life, burdened by the
knowledge that his unwavering devotion could not bridge the emotional divide
between him and his father. A Devoted Son poignantly explores
the complexities of love, sacrifice, and the inevitable misunderstandings that
can arise within families, especially between aging parents and their children.
Understanding
the text
Answer the following questions.
a.
How did the morning papers bring an ambience of celebration to the Varma
family?
The morning papers brought an
ambience of celebration to the Varma family by announcing the academic success
of their son, Rakesh. As the family gathered around the breakfast table, they
eagerly scanned the newspaper, and the news of Rakesh’s top-ranking achievements
in his medical exams filled them with pride and joy. This moment of recognition
not only highlighted Rakesh’s hard work and dedication but also fulfilled the
family's expectations for him, solidifying their pride in his success. The
announcement in the paper symbolized the culmination of years of effort and
sacrifice, bringing a sense of accomplishment and happiness to the Varma
household, as they saw their son’s future unfold with promise and prestige. It
set a celebratory tone for the day, elevating their sense of pride in both
Rakesh and their family's reputation.
b.
How did the community celebrate Rakesh’s success?
The community celebrated Rakesh's
success with great enthusiasm and pride, as his academic achievement was not
just a personal victory but also a source of collective pride for the entire
neighborhood. People in the community, who had watched Rakesh grow up, took
immense joy in his accomplishments. Friends and relatives visited the Varma
household to congratulate Rakesh and his family, bringing flowers and sweets as
symbols of celebration. The local community recognized his success as a
reflection of their shared values of hard work and education. The news of
Rakesh’s triumph in the newspapers was a topic of widespread discussion, and
many people expressed admiration for the Varma family, praising them for
raising such a bright and promising young man. The celebration extended beyond
the family, as Rakesh’s success became a point of pride for everyone who had
been part of his upbringing.
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 neighborhood because it symbolized not only
personal achievement but also the fulfillment of the community’s hopes and
aspirations. Rakesh had risen to the top of his medical exams, which was
considered a remarkable accomplishment, particularly in the context of the
traditional values upheld by the community. His success was seen as a
reflection of the hard work, discipline, and dedication instilled in him by his
parents, especially by his father, who had worked tirelessly to provide for the
family and ensure his son’s education. Furthermore, in a community where
educational success was highly valued, Rakesh’s triumph served as an
inspiration to others. It validated the idea that hard work and perseverance
could lead to great achievements, and thus became a point of pride not just for
the Varma family but for the entire neighborhood, making it a significant topic
of discussion.
d.
How does the author make fun with the words ‘America’ and ‘the USA’?
Rakesh had won a scholarship in USA. His father learnt it
to be called as ‘USA’ and taught the whole family not to say it as ‘America’ as
it was the term to be called by his ignorant neighbours. In this way the author
makes fun of the words ‘America’ and ‘the USA’.
e.
How does the author characterize Rakesh’s wife?
The author characterizes Rakesh’s wife as an uneducated,
old fashioned, plump girl. She was so placid, complaisant and lazy but too
good-natured and pretty fat one.
f.
Describe how Rakesh rises in his career.
After completing his medical education, he started his
career as a doctor in the city hospital and quickly reached the top of
administrative: organization and was made a director. Then, he opened his own
private clinic and became known not only as of the best but also the richest
doctor in city.
g.
How does the author describe Rakesh’s family background?
Rakesh was from a poor family who used to live in a village
in India. His father worked for a kerosene vendor and his mother spent her life
in the kitchen. His grandparents also used to work as vegetable vendors.
Despite of the poor economic condition, his parents worked hard and sacrificed
everything they have for the higher education and medical college of his son
Rakesh.
h.
What is the impact of Rakesh’s mother’s death on his father?
Rakesh’s father was broken into pieces by the death of his
wife. He fell ill so frequently and suffered with such mysterious disease named
a peevish whim (sudden irritation in mind) that even his son could no longer
make it out.
i.
What did Rakesh do to make his father’s old age more comfortable?
Rakesh used to bring his father his morning tea in the old
man’s favorite brass tumbler, and sat at the edge of his bed, comfortable and
relaxed his father’s night-shirt, and read out the morning news for him. He
used to help his father down the steps and onto the bed, soothing him and
settling him down for a night under the stars.
j.
Why did the old man try to bribe his grandchildren?
The old man tried to bribe his grandchildren in order to buy him
sweets and Jalebis from the shop at the crossroads.
k.
Are Mr. Varma’s complaints about his diets reasonable? How?
I don’t think that the Mr. Varma’s complaints about his diets are
reasonable. His son had made a diet plan for him so that he could live a
healthy life. Rakesh being a responsible son and a doctor too, can’t allow his
father to risk his life eating unnecessary foods and sweets. Rakesh did so
because he didn’t what to lose his father as he had already losed his mother.
Thus the Mr. Varma’s complaints about his diet aren’t reasonable.
Reference
to the Context
a.
How did the Varma couple make sacrifices for their son’s higher education?
Mr. Varma being a worker in a Kerosene Dealer Deport and Mrs. Varma
being a housewife doing household things have done and made a lot of sacrifices
for their son’s higher education. Mr. Varma had never seen how the school looks
like from the inside as he had never gone to study. So, he wanted to fulfill
his dream from his son and he sent Rakesh to the school for quality education.
Rakesh was the first son in the family to receive an education. Thus the Varma
couple worked hard and sacrificed their life, time, money and everything they
have for the higher education and medical college of son for the betterment of
his future.
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.
I think yes he would have enjoyed better health if she had not died
before him. He had fell ill as soon as his wife died. Before the death of his
wife he was enjoying his life with no mental harassment but after the death of
his wife he started being in depression and many other mental conditions. He
was broken mentally as well as physically. It is usual too because when a
person with whom you have spended decades, they become part of your life and
when they leave permanently, it is obvious to get a shock. Thus, if she had not
died before him, he would have enjoyed better health.
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?
With no doubt Rakesh is a good son and a good inspiring
doctor though he did remain devoted to his father. Actually he is dividing
between a doctor and a son. In my view, Rakesh could have been more polite and
respectful in his behaviour with his father in the final years. He could have
let his old father take the lead and give him the same independence and freedom
because it is the age where parents feel like they are left behind. Rakesh
could have also given his father some personal space and let him dictate how and
when his son helps him. His loud-speaking made his father very troublesome and
miserable. So, if he had spoken to his father politely and in respectful way,
he could have made his father’s final years more comfortable.
d.
What does the story say about the relationship between grandfather and
grandchildren?
Desai’s story “A Devoted Son” shows loving companionship between
grandfather and grandchildren. There is an unbreakable bond between them;
having a close relation, once the grandfather tried to bribe his grandchildren
to bring Jalebis for him. He used the innocence and mean nature of a small kid
for his own benefit. Though he loved his grandchildren very much but due to his
meanness he tried to show his grandson the wrong path. For that reason, the
relationship between grandfather and grandchildren was found to be innocent,
tricky, trusty and bonding in the story.
e. Do you
call Rakesh a devoted son? Give reasons.
Yes, I call Rakesh a devoted son. He always did whatever his parents
have advised or wanted him to do like; good academic performance, crucial part
of a boy’s life which is marriage, and also choosing to get back to his own
nation and live with his family though he could earn a lot of more money living
in the USA. Though Rakesh stuck at some part of giving his father a happy life
but he had tried his best. He always used to separate time for his old father
despite of being very busy in his professional life. He never wanted his father
to suffer. Hence, I think that Rakesh is a devoted son in the sense that he is
able to put his own wishes aside for their betterment.
Reference
beyond the text
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
In Nepali society, parents’ ambition
for their children is deeply rooted in cultural values, social expectations,
and a desire to secure a better future for the next generation. These ambitions
often stem from the parents' own experiences and the desire for their children
to overcome the struggles they may have faced. This strong drive can be seen in
many aspects of life, including education, career, marriage, and social status.
While parents’ ambitions are motivated by love and care, they can also create
pressure on children, leading to conflicts and challenges in their
relationships.
One prominent example of parents’
ambition is in the field of education. In Nepal, education is seen as a way to
escape poverty and achieve upward mobility. Many parents sacrifice their own
comfort to ensure that their children receive a good education. For example,
rural parents often send their children to urban areas or even abroad to study,
hoping that they will secure high-paying jobs. Parents aspire for their
children to pursue fields like engineering, medicine, or law, which are
considered prestigious and secure career paths. This ambition can be both a
blessing and a burden, as children may feel pressured to meet these
expectations, sometimes at the cost of their own passions.
Another example is in the desire
for children to secure stable and respected jobs. Many Nepali parents dream of
seeing their children become doctors, engineers, or civil servants. These
professions are seen as the pinnacle of success and stability in society.
Parents often encourage their children to pursue these fields, even if it means
pushing them away from their personal interests or talents. The ambition to
secure a respected job also extends to the pressure of gaining a government
position, as it is seen as a symbol of prestige and financial stability.
Parents also have strong ambitions
for their children's marriage and family life. In many parts of Nepal, the
concept of a "good match" for marriage is often guided by caste,
social standing, and financial stability. Parents work hard to ensure that
their children marry into families with similar or better status. This ambition
can sometimes overshadow the desires of the children, leading to arranged
marriages that prioritize social and economic compatibility over personal choice.
The ambition for a successful and harmonious marriage often reflects the
parents' desire to maintain or elevate the family’s reputation in society.
In addition to career and
marriage, parents in Nepal also have aspirations related to the social status
and respectability of their children. They hope their children will lead lives
that reflect well on the family name. For instance, in some cases, parents may
encourage their children to participate in social and religious events,
volunteer work, or community leadership, believing that such activities will
elevate the family’s status. In these instances, the desire for recognition and
respect within the community plays a significant role in shaping the family’s
expectations for their children.
However, while these ambitions
stem from a place of love and care, they can sometimes create conflict. The
pressure to meet these expectations can lead to frustration, especially if
children have different aspirations or feel trapped in the paths laid out for
them. In some cases, the conflict between parental ambition and children’s
personal desires can strain relationships and cause emotional distress. It is
important for parents to strike a balance between encouraging their children to
pursue their dreams and respecting their individuality.
In conclusion, parents’ ambition
for their children in Nepali society is a reflection of cultural values, the
pursuit of social mobility, and a deep desire for their children’s success and
happiness. While these ambitions can provide opportunities and drive, it is
essential to ensure that children’s voices are heard, and their individual
aspirations are respected. Only through understanding and mutual respect can
the gap between parents’ dreams and children’s desires be bridged, creating a
harmonious and supportive environment for the next generation.
b.
Medicines replace our diets in old age. What can be done to make old ageless
less dependent on medicine?
As people age, their bodies
undergo natural changes that can lead to various health issues, often resulting
in the increased use of medications. However, relying too heavily on medicine
in old age can sometimes lead to side effects and dependency. To make old age
less dependent on medicine, several lifestyle changes and preventive measures
can be implemented to promote better health, vitality, and independence.
1. Balanced Diet: One of the most effective
ways to reduce dependency on medicine in old age is by maintaining a
nutritious, well-balanced diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole
grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help manage many chronic conditions
such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Additionally,
including foods high in vitamins and minerals—such as calcium, vitamin D, and
magnesium—can strengthen bones and immune function, reducing the need for
supplements or medications.
2. Physical
Activity:
Regular physical exercise is essential for maintaining strength, flexibility,
and mobility. For older adults, activities like walking, swimming, yoga, or
strength training can help reduce the risk of falls, improve cardiovascular
health, and prevent conditions like osteoporosis. Regular physical activity
also helps manage weight, regulate blood sugar levels, and enhance mood, thus
reducing the need for medications that treat various age-related conditions.
3. Mental
Stimulation and Social Engagement: Keeping the mind active through
activities such as reading, solving puzzles, learning new skills, or engaging
in social interactions can help reduce cognitive decline and prevent mental
health conditions like depression and anxiety. Socializing with friends,
family, or community groups can also provide emotional support and reduce the
need for medications that treat stress or depression.
4. Preventive
Healthcare: Regular health check-ups, screenings, and early detection of
health issues can help reduce the reliance on medications. Preventive care
measures, such as getting vaccinated, managing chronic conditions with
lifestyle changes, and addressing health issues before they worsen, can reduce
the need for long-term medications. For example, managing blood pressure
through diet and exercise rather than relying solely on medications can help
control hypertension in the long run.
5. Holistic
Approaches: Incorporating alternative therapies like herbal medicine,
acupuncture, or aromatherapy, under the guidance of a healthcare professional,
can complement traditional treatments and potentially reduce the reliance on
pharmaceuticals. Practices such as meditation and mindfulness can help
alleviate stress and improve mental well-being, potentially reducing the need
for anti-anxiety medications.
6. Adequate
Sleep:
Quality sleep is crucial for overall health, especially in old age. Sleep plays
a critical role in memory, immune function, and emotional health. Ensuring that
older adults get sufficient, restful sleep can reduce the need for sleep aids
or medications for mood disorders.
c.
Write an essay on “Care of Elderly Citizens” in about 300 words.
Care
of Elderly Citizens
The care of elderly citizens is a
critical issue in today’s society, particularly as life expectancy increases
globally. Older adults often face challenges that require special attention,
including physical frailty, chronic health conditions, and the need for
emotional support. As the population ages, it is essential to ensure that
elderly citizens receive the care, respect, and dignity they deserve, allowing
them to live their later years in comfort and security.
One of the primary aspects of
elderly care is ensuring physical health. This includes providing regular
medical check-ups, managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension,
or arthritis, and offering assistance with daily activities like bathing,
dressing, and mobility. Access to healthcare services, including home visits by
doctors or nurses, can be crucial for elderly individuals who may have
difficulty traveling to medical appointments. Proper nutrition is also vital,
as elderly individuals often need a balanced diet to maintain energy, immune
function, and overall well-being.
In addition to physical care,
emotional and social support is equally important. Elderly citizens may
experience loneliness or isolation, especially if they live alone or have
limited social interactions. Regular contact with family members, friends, or
caregivers can alleviate feelings of isolation and depression. Social
activities, such as community events or senior clubs, can help keep elderly
citizens engaged and connected with their communities.
Moreover, the emotional well-being
of elderly citizens should be prioritized, as they may face significant life
transitions, including the loss of a spouse, friends, or independence.
Providing emotional support, encouraging open communication, and offering
counseling or mental health services can help elderly citizens cope with these
challenges.
In conclusion, the care of elderly
citizens involves not only managing their physical health but also attending to
their emotional, social, and psychological needs. It is the responsibility of
society to ensure that elderly individuals live their final years with respect,
dignity, and the support they need to thrive.
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