Publisher's Synopsis
The cross-cultural conflict is intensified through the delineation of the rebellious characters who want to reject their ancestral identity as a Jew or remain confined within the social status of minority, they want to be a part of the majority by leaving behind their traditional businesses; rejecting the ethno-specific costume style;marriages in the community; unfollowing the dietary instructions; and unwilling to follow Jewish religious doctrine blindly. Her characters violate the cultural norms and religious dictations. Menashe, Simha and Esther chose to become a painter which is a sin as per their religion as the Bene Israel never makes images or idols. Menashe's decision is strongly opposed by his father, Abraham. He is afraid of the punishment to be outcaste by the community. Bathsheba prays at the village shrine which is against her religion. David opposes his son, Joshua's obsession for bodybuilding that requires the exposure of the body to others, which is an inappropriate behavioural model according to the Jewish community. He disapproves Joshua's decision to become an actor in the film. David is not sure how his other community members will react to Joshua's passions. Ezra does not comprehend with his son, Jacob's decision of becoming a fashion designer. He thinks that this is not an ideal profession for any Bene Israel boy. They are considered as the orthodox community as they never allow any modification in their rituals. Esther David depicts that her community punishes those people who do not follow their cultural norms. Judah's family is ostracized by the community, as his grandfather chose to be cremated. The traditional Bene Israel community never accept such rebellious acts. It shows that how orthodox this community is and also supports to the statement that the estrangement and problems of assimilation are not only due to the socio-cultural issues, but it also lies with the orthodoxy of this community.
