Devoted son summary by Anita Desai - PREMSTHA
Devoted son summary by Anita Desai
Here is the short summary of Devoted son by Anita Desai.
Devoted son
"Devoted Son" is a short story by Indian author Anita Desai that tells the
story of a young man named Varma, who is deeply devoted to his father,
Rakesh. Varma idolizes his father and is determined to fulfill his father's
wishes of becoming a doctor. After completing his medical studies, Varma
becomes a successful doctor in the city.
When Rakesh falls seriously ill, he sends a letter to Varma asking him to
come home and perform a medical procedure. Varma returns home and performs
the procedure, but he discovers to his shock that his father's illness was
caused by his own success and wealth. Rakesh had indulged in rich and fatty
foods, which had led to his illness. Rakesh dies shortly after the
procedure, leaving Varma to question the meaning of his devotion and the
morality of his actions.
The story explores themes such as duty, morality, and the conflict between
traditional values and modern ideals in India. It also raises questions
about the responsibilities of children towards their parents, and the
complex relationship between parents and their offspring in a rapidly
changing society.