Chapter 12 - Chapter 17 Summary

Part IV, Chapter 12, Nine Nights of Dance - In late September, 2008, Asha is in full control of Annawadi. Despite all of her success, she has alienated her husband through her affairs, has no real friends, and her daughter is distant. Fatima's suicide has also become a symbol of rebellion and power among women. Manju has contemplated suicide herself. The festival of Navratri approaches, which celebrates feminine divinity, and is a "flirtfest". The people need a celebration, for the Western recession has hit India, and recyclable goods are now worth less than before. Though Meena and Manju are not happy with Annawadi, they feel that if they marry a farmer in a village, they will travel backwards.

Navratri means that the people furiously clean the maidan, clearing away garbage, and putting up decorations. Meanwhile, seeking freedom, Meena drinks rat poison...