“Did you bring the methi (fenugreek) from the market?” Suman asks. “Haan, didi. But price is 60 rupees a bunch now.” “Cheater. Give me 50.”

Every Indian household has this: a small wooden shelf with a Ganesh idol, a photo of the family guru, and a dried marigold garland. Ajit lights a camphor stick. The bell rings— ting-ting-ting . He chants the Vishnu Sahasranama in a low drone while Suman draws a tiny rangoli (colored powder design) at the doorstep using leftover kolam powder.

In an Indian family, roles and responsibilities are often clearly defined. The father, or "pitaji," is typically the breadwinner, while the mother, or "ma," manages the household and takes care of the children. The elderly members of the family often take on a mentorship role, offering guidance and support to the younger members.