Family

One of the main sources of drama in Selection Day is the persistent dysfunction amongst the members of the Kumar family, as the novel explores the nature of family responsibilities through the friction and tension between Mohan and his sons. From early on in his sons’ lives, Mohan takes it upon himself to direct Radha and Manju’s activities and life paths, disciplining the boys strictly and dictating what their futures are to be. In part, this is supposedly a means of lifting the family out of poverty, focusing on the practice of cricket as a means of eventually improving the family’s financial position. However, Mohan’s total control over his sons restricts Radha and Manju’s ability to determine their own paths in life and explore other interests. They are left with no options beyond pursuing cricket, and thus Manju gives up his interest...