In India, the joint family system is a common phenomenon, particularly in rural areas. Several generations of a family live together under one roof, sharing responsibilities and resources. This system fosters a sense of unity, cooperation, and mutual respect among family members. The elderly members of the family are highly respected and play a significant role in decision-making and passing down traditions.

This is the secret rhythm of the Indian lifestyle: the friction is the function. The lack of personal space creates a peculiar, tensile strength. Meena has no study of her own, but she has learned to carve silence in the eye of the storm—typing on her sewing machine while humming a film song as the world spins around her. Arun has no man-cave, but he has a corner of the divan where he hides behind the newspaper. Amma has no retirement community, but she has three generations to command.