A  Devoted Son | Exercise With Summary | Grade 12 | English

Summary of "A Devoted Son" by Anita Desai:

"A Devoted Son" by Anita Desai revolves around the life of Dr. Rakesh, a successful physician, and his relationship with his aging father, Mr. Varma. Rakesh's achievements bring joy to the Varma family, and the community celebrates his success. However, as Rakesh rises in his career, his approach to his father's health becomes increasingly medical and less empathetic. Mr. Varma's declining health after his wife's death adds complexity to the father-son dynamic. Rakesh, torn between his roles as a doctor and a son, strictly manages his father's diet and medication. The story explores themes of family, sacrifice, and the challenges of aging.

Understanding the Text:

a. How did the morning papers bring ambiance of celebration in the Varma family? 

The morning papers announced Rakesh's success, bringing a sense of celebration to the Varma family as they read about their son's achievements.

b. How did the community celebrate Rakesh’s success? 

The community celebrated Rakesh's success by organizing processions, distributing sweets, and expressing their joy at his accomplishments.

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 he had achieved recognition in the medical field and brought honor to the community.

d. How does the author make fun with the words ‘America’ and ‘the USA’? 

The author makes fun of the words 'America' and 'the USA' by highlighting how the Varma family uses these terms interchangeably, perhaps reflecting a lack of understanding or a humorous take on the perceived glamour associated with the country.

e. How does the author characterize Rakesh’s wife? 

The author doesn't provide extensive details about Rakesh's wife, but she is portrayed as someone who supports her husband and plays a role in the family dynamics.

f. Describe how Rakesh rises in his career. 

Rakesh rises in his career through dedication and hard work. His success as a doctor brings recognition and respect, leading to celebrations in the community.

g. How does the author describe Rakesh’s family background? 

The author describes Rakesh's family background as one that values education and has made sacrifices for Rakesh's higher education and success.

h. What is the impact of Rakesh’s mother’s death on his father? 

Rakesh's mother's death has a significant impact on his father's health. Mr. Varma suffers from various diseases after her death, suggesting a decline in his well-being.

i. What did Rakesh do to make his father’s old age more comfortable?

Rakesh manages his father's diet and medication strictly, intending to ensure his father's health in his old age.

j. Why did the old man try to bribe his grandchildren? 

The old man tried to bribe his grandchildren to get them to bring him forbidden, tasty foods that he desired, bypassing his son's strict dietary rules.

k. Are Mr. Varma’s complaints about his diets reasonable? How? 

Mr. Varma's complaints about his diet may be considered reasonable, as he yearns for the flavors of his youth and resents the strict restrictions imposed by his son, Dr. Rakesh.

Reference to the Context:

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 selling their ancestral land, emphasizing the importance they placed on education.

b. Would Mr. Varma have enjoyed better health if his wife had not died before him? 

It is suggested that Mr. Varma might have enjoyed better health if his wife had not died before him, as his health deteriorates after her death. The loss may have contributed to his declining well-being.

c. What else could Rakesh have done to make his father’s final years more comfortable? 

Rakesh could have approached his father's care with more empathy, balancing the roles of a doctor and a son. He could have explored ways to make his father's final years more enjoyable, considering emotional well-being alongside medical care.

d. What does the story say about the relationship between grandfather and grandchildren? 

The story portrays a mischievous yet endearing relationship between the old man and his grandchildren. They engage in a playful exchange, with the grandchildren succumbing to the old man's bribes for forbidden treats.

e. Do you call Rakesh a devoted son? Give reasons. 

While Rakesh is devoted in his role as a doctor, his devotion as a son is questioned due to his strict and clinical approach to his father's health. The story raises the complexity of defining devotion within the context of familial relationships.

Reference Beyond the Text:

a. Write an essay on The Parents’ Ambition for their Children in Nepali Society. 

Parents' ambition for their children in Nepali society often revolves around academic success, professional achievements, and social status. They may sacrifice personal comforts and resources to ensure their children receive quality education, reflecting a broader societal emphasis on academic excellence.

b. What can be done to make old age less dependent on medicine? 

To make old age less dependent on medicine, a focus on preventive healthcare, including a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and mental well-being, is crucial. Social engagement, a supportive environment, and access to quality healthcare can also contribute to a healthier old age.

c. Write an essay on “Care of Elderly Citizens” in about 300 words.

"Caring for Elderly Citizens" is a pressing societal responsibility that involves providing physical, emotional, and social support to seniors. It encompasses creating age-friendly environments, ensuring healthcare accessibility, promoting social inclusion, and recognizing the wisdom and contributions of the elderly. In the essay, one could delve into the challenges and potential solutions in addressing the diverse needs of the elderly population.