What is the theme in Nectar in a Sieve by Kamala Purnaiya Taylor?

Along with the theme religion this work also explores the large difference in opinion of faith between Eastern and Western cultures at this time. Rukmani’s view, as one who has little and suffers much, is to rely on her faith as a backbone to carry her through. Kenny’s ideas find this thought unacceptable, and based on his reactions and attitude at times, stupid.