A Study on the Influence of Culture and Tradition on Family and Relationships in Jhumpa Lahiri’s the Namesake

Jhumpa Lahiri’s “The Namesake†intricately explores the themes of family and traditions within the context of the immigrant experience, particularly through the lens of the Ganguli family. This paper delves into the various elements that Lahiri uses to illustrate the themes such as intergenerational dynamics, cultural preservation, family bonds and the significance of rituals and customs. The novel highlights how the Gangulis, as Bengali immigrants in America, navigate the complexities of preserving their cultural identity while adapting to their new environment. It also showcases the generational conflicts and understanding between immigrant parents and their American-born children, emphasizing the tension and harmony that arise from their differing cultural experiences. This Paper underscores how these elements shape the characters’ identities and their navigation of life in a foreign land. The enduring power of family bonds, the resilience of cultural traditions and the evolving nature of identity within the immigrant experience are key focal points, offering a profound understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by immigrant families.