Secret Daughter

Secret Daughter unpacks the social convention that motherhood is a fundamental, inherent part of womanhood. Examine women who are not mothers in the novel and compare and contrast them with Somer’s and Kavita’s stories. How do they expose the way in which this deeply rooted societal belief is not always the case? 

Marriage, as an institution, is wildly different in Western and Eastern cultures, as portrayed in Secret Daughter. How do Kris and Jasu exemplify or subvert the role of a husband in their respective cultures? Are they stereotypical or not?

Kavita’s sister, Rupa, is a minor but important character in the novel. Examine the character of Rupa and discuss specifically how she develops the overarching themes of the book related to womanhood, motherhood, and family. 

Kris regards his family as “a wild sprawling thing, a strong thing that withstand years, miles, even mistakes” (116). Compare the different iterations of family in the novel, from Kavita’s family in Dahanu to Somer’s parents in Palo Alto.

Consider Meena’s statement that “Mother India does not love all her children equally” (285). Describe the context in which she says this, and how it might have larger implications. How does this statement encapsulate the core themes of the novel surrounding motherhood, Indian culture, and disparity? 

In Chapter 56, as Asha shows Somer around The Times of India office, Somer is filled with joy: “Somer smiles as sparks of pride fire in her chest. Kris was right. India was good for her (321). This moment represents a major change in Somer and Asha’s relationship. Unpack the ways in which this scene is a manifestation of the evolution of Somer and Asha’s relationship as mother and daughter. 

Secret Daughter uses numerous dichotomies throughout the book (Indian and American culture; Eastern and Western society; male and female; rich and poor; rural and city) to speak to the different themes surrounding power, oppression, and colonial subjugation. Choose 3 dichotomies and explain how they enrich the primary themes of the book.

Kavita experiences poverty in rural Dahanu and in the slums of Mumbai. Reflect on impoverishment as it differs across rural and city lines in India; examine commonalities and similarities with both forms of poverty and how they affect Kavita’s character.