DISSERTATION PROJECT

Dollar Bhau by Sudha Murthy

Supervision By

Prof. Ritu Mittal Saherish Fatima

M.A 1st sem

saherishzaidi@gamil.com

Department of English

J.K.P.G. College Mzn

Roll no. Session-2023-24

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Here , I am presenting a research paper on the topic Dollar Bahu in this research paper I have tried to give all the important things
about the project.

This research paper contains about “Dollar Bahu” is the story of how money can wreak have in the life of any family if thinks spin out of
control Vinita is a young women , who marries Grish, who is a bank clear Vinita them begins to live in Bangalore , with Giris ih ‘s family and starts
to get accustomed to her new family.

I am thankful to my 1nglish teacher who have gave me moral support and guided me to complete this project on time, she also guided me
in research work for the project while doing this research paper. I can across many new think which improved my skills.

I have given all the information in this research paper by consulting subject specialist, teacher, books and webside.
 TABLE OF CONTENT
Chapter Name

1. Title page

2. Certificate

3. Acknowledgment

4. About

5. Introduction

6. Conceptual analysis

7. Value v/s value in dollar bahu

8. Literary Endeavour (ISSN 0976-299X) : Vol Issue:1(January,2018)

9. Long Questions Answers

10. Short Questions Answers

11. Very Short Questions Answers

12. Conclusion

13. Bibliography
 WRITER (SUDHA MURTHY)

ABOUT

Sudha Murthy

Born Sudha Kulkarni

19 August 1950 (age 73)

Shiggaon, Bombay State (present-day Karnataka), India

Alma mater  B.V.B. College of Engineering and Technology

 Indian Institute of Science

Cornell University, Ithaca, New York

Occupation(s) Chairperson of Infosys Foundation

Children's writer


Notable work How I Taught My Grandmother to Read

 Mahashweta

 Dollar Bahu

Spouse N. R. Narayana Murty

Children Akshata Murty and Rohan Murty

Relatives Rishi Sunak (son-in-law)

Awards Padma Shri

Daana Chintamani Attimabbe Award
Padma Bhushan
Sudha Murty (née Kulkarni; born 19 August 1950) is an Indian educator, author and philanthropist who is chairperson of the Infosys
Foundation. She is married to the co-founder of Infosys, N. R. Narayana Murty. Murty was awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian
award in India, for social work by the Government of India in 2006. [1] Later in 2023, she was awarded the Padma Bhushan, the third highest
civilian award in India.[2]

Sudha Murty began her professional career in computer science and engineering. She is a member of the public health care initiatives of
the Gates Foundation.[3][4] She has founded several orphanages, participated in rural development efforts, supported the movement to provide
all Karnataka government schools with computer and library facilities, and established Murty Classical Library of India at Harvard
University.[5][6][7][8][9]

Murty is best known for her philanthropy and her contribution to literature in Kannada and English. Dollar Bahu (lit. 'Dollar Daughter-in-Law'), a
novel originally authored by her in Kannada and later translated into English as Dollar Bahu, was adapted as a televised dramatic
series[10] by Zee TV in 2001.[11] Runa (lit. 'Debt'), a story by Sudha Murthy was adapted as a Marathi film, Pitruroon by director Nitish Bhardwaj.
Sudha Murthy has also acted in the film[12] as well as a Kannada film Prarthana.

Early life and Education

Sudha Murty was born to a Kannada -speaking family on 19 August 1950 in Shiggaon, Haveri in Karnataka, India, the daughter of R. H.
Kulkarni, a surgeon, and his wife Vimala Kulkarni, a school teacher. She was raised by her parents and maternal grandp arents. These childhood
experiences form the historical basis for her first notable work entitled How I Taught My Grandmother to Read, Wise and Otherwise and Other
Stories.[15] Murty completed a BEng in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the B.V.B. College of Engineering & Technology (now known
as KLE Technological University), and then a MEng in Computer Science from the Indian Institute of Science[16][17]

Career
Sudha Murty became the first female engineer hired at India's largest auto manufacturer TATA Engineering and Locomotive
Company (TELCO).[18] She joined the company as a Development Engineer in Pune and then worked in Mumbai & Jamshedpur
as well. She had written a postcard to the company's Chairman complaining of the "men only" gender bias at TELCO. As a
result, she was granted a special interview and hired immediately. [19][17] She later joined Walchand Group of Industries at Pune as
Senior Systems Analyst.

In 1996, she started Infosys Foundation and to date has been the Trustee of Infosys Foundation and a Visiting Professor at the
PG Center of Bangalore University. She also taught at Christ University.[20]

Sudha Murty has written and published many books which include novels, non-fiction, travelogues, technical books, and
memoirs. Her books have been translated into all major Indian languages. She is also a columnist for English and Kannada
newspapers.[21]
 VALUE VS. VALUE: AN AXIOLOGICAL STUDY OF
SUDHA MURTHY'S DOLLAR BAHU

Dr. Mukta Jagannath Mahajan, Professor and Head, Dept. of English, School of Language Studies and Research
Centre, North Maharashtra University, Jalgaon

Introduction

Present research paper evaluates the fiction Dollar Bahu (2007) by Sudha Murthy on the basis of value theory. The paper is an
attempt to apply the ten basic values mentioned by Scwartz, Scwartz and Bilsky- Self direction, Stimulation, Hedonism, Achievement, Power,
Security, Conformity, Tradition, Benevolence and Universalism to the text Dollar Bahu.

Conceptual analysis

1. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy explains Value theory as a 'catch all label used to encompass all branches of moral philosophy,
social and political philosophy...' (https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/value-theory) It further views that value theory designates the area of
moral philosophy that is concerned with theoretical questions about values and goodness of all varieties... (It) encompasses axiology,
but also includes many other questions about the nature of value and its relation to the moral category.
(https://plato.stanford.edu/entires/value-theory)

2. The term value is ambiguous as far as its theoretical insinuations are concerned. It may refer to value in terms of economics and
philosophy. It may refer to value as economic worth of goods and services. It may value worth of a human being on the basis of his
qualities. Values are further understood as-beliefs, motivational construct, abstract goals, an ordered systems of priorities

3. Value theory is also defined as desirable trans-situational goals varying in importance that serves as guiding principles in people's
lives(essedunet.nsd.uib.no/cms/topics/1 /1 /1 . htm)

4. Thomas Hurka states that value theory says which states of affaires are intrinsically good and which intrinsically evil. (htt p s
://thomashurka. files .wordpress . c om)

5. Encyclopedia Britannica explains axiology as theory of value and further adds that 'the term 'value 'originally meant the worth of
something chiefly in the economic sense of exchange value ...Ralph Perry theorized value as any object of interest. Later he explored
eight realms of 'value': morality, religion, art etc.' (http://www.britannica.com/topic/axiology)

Value Vs. value in dollar bahu

Suha Murthy, a renowned name of Infosys, is a prolific writer who has written fiction and nonfiction. The book Dollar Bahu is
originally written in Kannada and has been translated into many languages. Sudha Murthy in the preface of the novel makes clear her intention
behind writing this book. She says, "I hope this book will show some families that love and af fection can be important than money" (From
Preface). Being a professional from corporate sector Sudha Murthy perhaps better under the value of value. Dollar Bahu narrat es the story of
a middle class family based at Bangalore. The characters in the family elaborate the idea of value vs. value. The head of the family,
Shamanna being a teacher of Sanskrit advocates the virtues that confer on a human being an enriched personality. He considers values in
 human beings on the basis his virtues. Whereas his wife Gouramma, has a strong belief in the economic perspective of value. For her, money
is the deciding factor in human life. Therefore does not value her husband who cannot generate the financial assets. Their elder son
Chandrashekhar, a civil engineer inherits his mother's craze for money, Particularly for dollars and aspires to go to America, earn dollars and
thus earn social status. His mother too encourages him and feels proud of him when he sends dollars for every event in the family. Whereas
Chandru's younger brother inherits his father's perspective of charity and social welfare. Girish's wife, Vinuta comes from poor family; so fails
to bring good dowry and expensive gifts. Naturally she is not even treated as bahu i.e. Laxmi but as a maid servant. Though V inuta is virtuous
and earning woman, she is valued as secondary. Chandru's wife, Jamuna belongs to rich family who brings dowry, expensive gifts, jewellery
after marriage, she is honoured as 'Mahalaxmi' by her mother-in-law. Her marriage with Chandra promotes her as Dollar Bahu. Shamanna's
family is battle ground for the war between material value and virtues as value. Gouramma and Shamanna, Vinuta and Jamuna are the
characters through whom Sudha Murthy comments on the superiority of human virtues over material value. She has commented over various
concepts of value theory like hedonism, desire, perfectionism, comparison and aggression, intrinsic goodness, egalitarian val ue from literary
viewpoint. Literature being an umbrella term incorporates philosophical dimension of human life and tries to simplify the abstract philosophical
idea through the fabrication of a story and placing the characters in a situations. A novelist does so to explain the abstrac t and ambiguous
philosophical ideas through the means of entertainment, of course, with the ultimate aim of educating the readers. This paper also attempts to
elaborate the philosophical tenets on the basis of the main characters whose ideas are based on the value theory and theory of value. The
basic values are considered in domestic context in particular and in social context in general.

Thomas Hurka considers values as states of affairs... Since these states are not actions they cannot be right or wrong but th ey can
have positive or negative value. (https://thomashurka.files.wordpress.com) Literature believes in transformation in people in the course of life.
So their journey could be from good to bad or bad to good. Moreover the factual understanding of human being leads to the conclusion that a
human being cannot be permanently good or bad but his situational perceptions leads his categorization as good or bad and there is always a
scope for change in a human being. The central character Gouramma in the novel Dollar Bahu travels from bad to good. She is a
hedonist in initial stages because of wrong

Literary Endeavour (ISSN 0976-299X) : Vol. IX : Issue: 1 (January, 2018)

perspective but because of her intrinsic goodness she has the ability to differentiate between good and bad and therefore
moves from hedonism, power, and to self-direction, benevolence and universalism. Her surrounding characters and their actions,
responses and reaction help to bring the positive change her and to understand the meaning of 'value'

Gouramma is delineated as an ambitious woman she is a traditionalist and thus believes in domestic hierarchical power
structure. She feels that financial status of a person increases his value in society. Her lust for money, jewellery, silks d iamond, gold, big
house, car power stand in sheer contrast with the self-contented, generous and charitable nature of her husband. That's why 'Since her
husband had been unable to full fill her dreams, Gouramma had pinned her hopes on her children' (Murthy, P. 19). Every day Sh e prays
to God that 'her children should go abroad and earn lots of money' (Murthy, P. 20) Chandru her elder son displays his capacity of
earning. He soon gets the deputation in America and thus Gouramma's dream partially comes true. Chandru's fascination for dol lar is
rightly reflected when talks about dollar to his brother 'The dollar is the most powerful financial instrument ofmodern times. It is magic
money--- (Murthy, P.25). Chandru is instrumental in adding to the principle of hedonism in Gouramma. Her belief is strengthened
because of her perspective that

'It was the dollar, not Indian rupees, which could elevate her into the elite circle at social gatherings and marriage halls. The
dollar was like the Goddess Lakshmi, with a magic wand' (Murthy, P.25).

Gouramma counts everything in terms of money. Her concepts of happiness and pain are related to money. This further results into
comparison and aggression. She keeps on comparing her two daughters -in-law, Jamuna and Vinuta, not on the basis of their virtue
potential but on the basis of monetary potential. Vinuta the virtuous but poor is always subsided and neglected whereas Jamuna, the rich
girl and dollar bahu is always praised and valued.
 The Dollar Bahu Jamuna too reflects the value of conformity. She has been influenced by her mother who has taught her to
speak well with the relatives but not allow them to stay in her house. She knows the greedy and stupid nature of her Gouramma and
Surbhi. But she allows Gouramma to come to America and stay with her because she is pregnant. Jamuna's pract ical and calculating
behaviour is very well displayed when she speaks out her real feelings,

'I give them what I don't like and they don't suspect anything. For example I pass on all my old saris to Surbhi and I tell h er due
to customs restrictions, I rewrapped them. ... I always believe divide and rule' (Murthy, P.129).

To avoid the robbing nature of Indian relatives she prefers to stay in America. She says 'it is better to send them some doll ars as gifts
than to settle in India' (Murthy, P.129). By purchasing to and fro ticket for Gouramma and allowing her to stay in her house, Jamuna
encashes every dollar spent on Gouramma by making her to do all the household work, to look after them and to baby sit Manasi .
Chandru, Gouramma's son staying inAmerica has also his clear views about economic value. He says,

"Everyone there (India) thinks that it very is easy to earn in dollars --- what they don't understand is that we also have to
struggle, far away from home, family and culture. W e worry about our children wh o are confused between the two value systems.
Actually the price you pay is very high. The dollar is very expensive if you take into account all these points All Indians b ack home only
equate the dollar to forty three or forty five rupees." (Murthy, P.100)

Chandru fulfils the desires of his mother by staying in America far away from family but he too is aware of the fact that his value
for his mother and sister is counted in terms of dollars he sends to them and not for he himself.

Gouramma's daughter Surbhi inherits the commercial approach of her mother. She reflects the value of conformity. She
herself is lazy, neither interested in household work nor in education. She is delineated as greedy and violates the familiar expectations.
Gouramma's money minded behaviour also influences Surbhi's nature and life. W hen Surbhi is noticed watching movie with an ordinary
boy Gopinath by Vinuta and reported at home, Gouramma admonishes Surbhi explaining value of money even in deciding alliances. She
openly tells her,

What does he (Gopinath) have? An ordinary job and a small house! If you marry him, your life will be like Vinuta's. You will
have to count every penny and try to save all the time. Look at Jamuma! She has two cars; she can spend money in lakhs becaus e she
has money in dollars. The dollar is all powerful. --- you can lead that kind of life if you marry someone who is in the U.S. or someone very
rich in India" (Murthy, P.59)

Gouramma is ready to buy a rich husband for Surbhi by spending lavishly in Surbhi's marriage. Even in Surbhi's marriage more
importance is given to Jamuna because she and Chandru have paid two lakhs whereas Girish and Vinuta are totally neglected bec ause
they have contributed only one lakh

Vinuta who is always compared with the dollar bahu Jamuna suffers the depression because she is very often flabbergasted by
the questions like 'Should a marriage be arranged on the basis of love and understanding or on the love for the dollar?' (P.5 9). She
feels hatred for the word 'dollar' and 'she prayed to God, Let a day come when forty five dollars are equal to one rupee. If that did
happen, what would this dollar Bahu do? (Murthy, P.137)

Shamanna, Gouramma's husband is the only person in the family who could realize the corrupt and devastating influenc e of
dollar on his family. He stands for unification axiology because he knows the worth of material value and spiritual value. Be ing a
teacher, he knows the true meaning of 'Value' that's why when Gouramma speaks out the need of pleasure life for their ch ildren, he
emphasizes the need of good education to his children because it is the education, knowledge that could set the right perspec tive of
looking at life. It is he who explains Vinuta at the end of the novel that all problems of life could not be sol ved with the help of money. He
has the common sense of knowing the material value of dollar and tells to Vinuta,

"I can only be grateful that many of our comforts were bought by the purchasing power of dollar. W e are now financially bette r
off Many lower- middle class families have benefitted from their children going to America. Many parents have been settles there. They
have been able to build houses and marry off their daughters without too much of trouble" (P. 139)
 So he underlines the need of money for leading a comfortable life but being a man of value theory, he is perfectly aware of
what happens if the need turns into greed. This he could illustrate from his own life. He states,

Look at Gouri, her desires were mostly fulfilled because of Chandru. But she does not understand that money is not everything
in life."(Murthy, P.139)

He then explains the corrupt influence of dollar on his family and familial relations. He says,

Nothing comes free Vinu. And definitely when it comes to financial help. This dol lar may have transferred the lifestyle of some
families, taken them from poverty to wealth but it has also broken up some families and destroyed peace of mind... If Gouri h ad been
more mature, she would not have been in awe of the dollar and danced to its tune. Her greed burnt the peace and harmony in our
family."(Murthy, P.139)

Shamanna reflects the values like self-direction, stimulation, achievement, security benevolence and universalism.

Though various incidents in the novel throw light on Gouramma's gr eed for money, Sudha Murthy also explains through
Shamanna that her desires were oppressed due to her childhood poverty and even after marriage she to constrain all her desire s due to
the meagre salary and generous nature of her husband. But the flow of dollars from her America based son and her observation of the
ways of the world at once catapult her desires and consequent comparisons and aggression by Gouramma destroy the peace of her
family. But her intrinsic goodness helps her to come out of the maze of the money as well as the influence of the maze runners. Her
realization of the true nature of the dollar bahu and the understanding of American life help her in shedding out her assumpt ions of
pleasure life and she comes back to India with a new percepti on of life and human relations.

Long Questions & Answers

Q.1 = Write the summary of the book dollar bahu?

Ans. Introduction : Sudha Murty the Pudma Shri awarded Indian writer who is also the chairperson of Infosys Foundation is an
excellent writer of Indian-English novels who discusses the problems a woman encounter in a micro-cosmic level thereby giving a larger
picture of the society and how the women of the Indian society live by their psychological and physical struggles. The women characters
we are discussing here belong to the married cult, who struggle to find meaning in life even after the innumerable sacrifices they make to
build a happy family.

Summary

Sudha Murty’s protagonist of ‘Dollar Bahu’ who has ‘dollar’ not on monetary basis but in the sense of ‘character’ is named ‘Vinuta’ who
is a school teacher who balances her home as well as work pretty well in spite of the taunts she get in return from her new a tmosphere
of living among the in-laws. Vinuta gets herself compared to the literally rich ‘Dollar Bahu’ named ‘Jamuna’ who comes from a rich
background. The self-sacrificing nature of ‘Vinuta’ is vividly portrayed in the fiction:

Vinuta was pregnant and had had a tiring day at school. Nevertheless, she did everything as per her mother -in-law’s wishes, as the word
‘no’ did not exist in her dictionary (Dollar Bahu, p.58).

Here we could see that she isn’t doing anything because someone forced it upon her but it is her own choice. W e can see a ble nd of
traditional and modern women in ‘Vinuta’, who is a new woman character in the fiction.

‘Jamuna’ who has entered the groom’s house with dollars literally never faces humiliation in any manner even if she had very little
regard for her mother-in-law and sister-in-law. W hile reading the story the writer explicitly states that the dowry system is of course
abolished from India but it gets disguised and affects a girl’s life in many ways.
 ‘Surabhi’ is the sister-in-law of ‘Vinuta’ who lives her life on her own terms. ‘Surabhi’ was in love with a person who was not that
financially equal to her status and thus will abide by her mother’s wishes to marry a ‘well -settled’ guy. Here ‘Surabhi’ doesn’t fall into the
category of the new women but a lady who gets easily manipulated. Neither does her mother, ‘Gour amma’ fall into the category of ‘New-
women’ rather she is a materialistic person who values’ love’ less than ‘money’ but towards the end of the novel she understa nds the
mistakes she has made in her life but unfortunately it was too late because ‘Vinuta’ b y the time was far away from her mother-in-law
which can be read in metaphorical terms.

Sarah Grand’s ‘New-W omen’ was a woman who expands her spectrum of activities; she would be independent and free but despises
the surroundings that make her feel weak. S he would not try to make peace with situations rather may break the shackles and fly away.
But ‘Vinuta’ is not like that she is a definition of ‘New-New woman’ who would rather than breaking the shackles would wait for a change,
who is optimistic that the mindset of the captivator may change with time and if not she would devise other ways to break the chain but
never leaves her family like the character ‘Nora’ of Henrick Ibsen. And one day it does happen that the dominator herself und erstands
her wrong-doings and is guilty of her actions. Thereby the writer is giving a message of peace to her readers.

With a deep sigh, she opened her purse to retrieve

the keys to open her suitcase—and a hundred

dollar bill fell out. It was the bill that Chandru had given her at the airport. But at that moment, it did not hold any charm, any
power or any magic. The invincible Dollar had fallen . . .

(p.119,Dollar Bahu)

Here ‘Gauramma’ has been portrayed by the writer in such a way that, because of her past experiences of a tough life from the
humble salary of her husband who was a school-teacher,she had the misgiving that money was everything for having a happy life. She
had understood her mistakes by the end of the novel but still the writer points out that she couldn’t und erstand why her son ‘Chandru’
helps his wife in household chores again pushing the character into the back-racks of old traditional stereotypical beliefs that household-
chores are only for the female members of the family. Jamuna and Chandru had an arrange d marriage but the writer through her mouth-
piece ‘Gouramma’ says it’s after all his fate!

She was aware that she would never visit America again and she felt sorry for Chandru, who had to put up with such a wife, so
far from home. But that again was each person’s fate, she consoled herself (p.115,Dollar Bahu)

In the story we could see that ‘Vinuta”s self -sacrificing nature has added shine to her character when Gouramma thinks good
of her daughter in law ’Vinuta’. The ability to self -sacrifice one’s wishes and to give importance to the thoughts and feelings of other
members of the family can be done only to great minds provided whichever gender it is.

Conclusion

Sudha Murty is a ‘Padma Shree’ awardee and is such a writer who voices social, domestic and real life events through her
fiction. She writes in simple English in which everyone can understand. She herself says about this that she doesn’t want her readers to
have a dictionary while they sit down for a pleasure reading 1. Our writer is keen to voice for women and their issues, how they reflect on
society and how society treats them in particular. Here through these two works Dollar Bahu and Gentle Falls: The Bakula the writer
talks about two ‘married women’ characters who stand distinct from the New-W omen characters of the writers of the past in their own
way. The protagonist women characters of these novels do not sever their ties forever neither do they have hatred to the worl d.

Q.2 Write a note on Sudha Murthy as a writer?

Ans. Introduction Sudha Murty began her professional career in computer science and engineering. She is a member of the public health
care initiatives of the Gates Foundation.[3][4] She has founded several orphanages, participated in rural development efforts, supported the
movement to provide all Karnataka government schools with computer and library facilities, and established Murty Classical Library of
India at Harvard University.[5][6][7][8][9]

Murty is best known for her philanthropy and her contribution to literature in Kannada and English. Dollar Bahu (lit. 'Dollar Daughter-in-Law'), a
novel originally authored by her in Kannada and later translated into English as Dollar Bahu, was adapted as a televised dramatic
series[10] by Zee TV in 2001.[11] Runa (lit. 'Debt'), a story by Sudha Murthy was adapted as a Marathi film, Pitruroon by director Nitish Bhardwaj.
Sudha Murthy has also acted in the film[12] as well as a Kannada film Prarthana.

Her Career as a Writer

Sudha Murty became the first female engineer hired at India's largest auto manufacturer TATA Engineering and Locomotive
Company (TELCO).[18] She joined the company as a Development Engineer in Pune and then worked in Mumbai & Jamshedpur as well. She
had written a postcard to the company's Chairman complaining of the "men only" gender bias at TELCO. As a result, she was granted a special
interview and hired immediately.[19][17] She later joined Walchand Group of Industries at Pune as Senior Systems Analyst.

Sudha Murthy is a renowned Indian author, social worker, and philanthropist known for her impactful contributions to literature and society. Born
on August 19, 1950, in Shiggaon, Karnataka, she has left an indelible mark through her writing, focusing on a range of themes that reflect the
nuances of Indian society, culture, and human relationships.

Sudha Murthy's writing is characterized by simplicity, honesty, and a deep understanding of the human condition. Her works, primarily in English
and Kannada, often resonate with readers from various age groups. One of her notable literary achievements is her ability to bridge the gap
between generations and connect with readers of all backgrounds.

Many of Sudha Murthy's works are centered around everyday life, relationships, and moral values. She is known for weaving stories that carry
strong moral messages, emphasizing the importance of compassion, empathy, and social responsibility. Her storytelling style i s straightforward,
making her narratives accessible to a wide audience.

Some of Sudha Murthy's popular books include "Wise and Otherwise," a collection of short stories based on her real-life experiences, "The Old
Man and His God," which explores the spiritual aspects of life, and "The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories," a collection of short stories
for children.

In addition to her literary contributions, Sudha Murthy is also recognized for her philanthropic work. She is the chairperson of the Infosys
Foundation, a non-profit organization that focuses on supporting various social initiatives in the fields of education, healthcare, and rural
development.

Sudha Murthy's enduring legacy as a writer lies not only in the literary landscape but also in the positive impact she has made on society through
her humanitarian efforts. Her ability to blend storytelling with social consciousness has earned her a special place in the hearts of readers and
admirers alike

Conclusion

Sudha Murthy who is a big impression only for India but for the whole world has tried to bring out the reality of society as in her works she
has shown women in past have fought to overcome the cruelty in society she has picturized Indian middle class society and has shown
their problems wells she is one of the illustrious and ex traordinary doutors of India, who is an icon to the youth of today.

Q.3 Discuss how money matters in the light of the story of dollar bahu?

Ans. Introduction Sudha murthy almost all writing is centred at value theory. She has attacked the outcomes of the increasing
hedonist tendency in human beings. Present book Dollar bahu also hits the materialistic approach of a middle -class family, shows
constant comprarisons whitch even results into depression, dollar bahu is a sotry about dreams, aspirations, culture and the simple life in
the context of an American background the auther shows how money corrupts the life of man. Sudha Murthy one of the best noval s Dollar
Bahu, makes one to realize the importance of humanity, despite of money.

"Dollar Bahu" is a novel written by Sudha Murthy that explores the complexities and consequences of placing too much emphasis on financial
success and material wealth, particularly in the context of family relationships. The story revolves around the lives of the Chandran family, whose
dynamics are significantly influenced by the pursuit of the American Dream and the lure of the dollar.

The central character, Vinuta, dreams of a better life and a more prosperous future for her family. Her husband, Chandru, travels to the United
States in pursuit of a lucrative job and the promise of a better income. The novel reflects on the impact of Chandru's decisi on on the family
dynamics, highlighting how the pursuit of wealth can strain relationships and alter the traditional fabric of familial bonds.

Here are some key aspects of how money matters in the light of the story of "Dollar Bahu":

Economic Disparities: The story sheds light on the economic disparities that arise when one family member moves to a foreign country for

financial gain. While the family in India is hopeful for an improved financial situation, the physical distance and cultural differences create a gap
between them.

Materialism vs. Values: "Dollar Bahu" explores the clash between materialism and traditional values. The pursuit of wealth in the form of the
dollar becomes a symbol of success, but it also challenges the values that the family holds dear. The story prompts readers t o question whether
financial success is worth sacrificing cultural and familial ties.

Impact on Relationships: The novel vividly depicts how the pursuit of money can strain relationships. The physical absence of a family

member, coupled with the pressure to fulfill financial expectations, leads to emotional distancing and misunderstandings among family members.

Cultural Clashes: The story also delves into the cultural clashes that can arise when an individual, in this case, Chandru, embraces a lifestyl e

and mindset shaped by a foreign culture. The clash between the values of the East and the West becomes a recurring theme, highlighting the
challenges that arise when material success is prioritized over cultural roots.

Emotional Costs: "Dollar Bahu" explores the emotional costs associated with prioritizing money over emotional well-being. The characters

grapple with loneliness, unmet emotional needs, and a sense of alienation, underscoring the idea that financial success does not always
translate into genuine happiness.

In summary, "Dollar Bahu" serves as a poignant exploration of the impact of the pursuit of money on family relationships, cultural valu es, and
individual happiness. Sudha Murthy skillfully weaves a narrative that encourages readers to reflect on the true worth of wealth and the
importance of maintaining a balance between material success and emotional fulfillment.

Conclusion

The book focuses on how even the smallst of things starts mattering and t he biggest gratitude goes unnoticed only because of money.
Money remains of powerfull but ultimately destroys the peace of mind. The mentality of Indian families is depic ted in this book by Sudha
Murthy that Indian families have a fiction with their family member living in US. It tells us only about how illiterate we ar e even though we
consider ourselves very educated. The Mother in Law is completely mesmerized with one of the daughters in law who stays at U. S and
completely freaks out at the other who stays with her in India. But one day she comes realization that shw w as wrong and understand the
value of pure love from her onther daughter in law.
Q.4 In which train did Chandru go ? Why ? Justify

Ans. In "Dollar Bahu," Chandru goes to the United States, not by train but by an airplane. The mode of transportation is crucial because it
reflects the significant decision he makes to pursue better opportunities and the American Dream. Air travel is faster and more efficient for
international journeys, emphasizing the magnitude of Chandru's choice to seek a new life abroad.

Chandru's decision to move to the United States is driven by the pursuit of economic prosperity and a desire for a better life for himself and his
family. The airplane symbolizes the globalization of aspirations and opportunities. It also underscores the th eme of cultural and geographical
distance, as air travel facilitates a significant physical separation between Chandru and his family in India.

While the specific mode of transportation may not be explicitly mentioned in the novel, the choice of an airplan e over a train aligns with the
narrative's focus on the broader theme of globalization, ambition, and the transformative impact of the pursuit of the Americ an Dream on the
Chandran family.

If we were to consider the symbolic significance and justify the choice of an airplane over a train in the context of the story, several factors come
into play:

Speed and Efficiency: Air travel is considerably faster and more efficient for long-distance international journeys compared to train travel.

Chandru's decision to move to the United States is a major life-changing event, and using an airplane emphasizes the urgency and magnitude of
his pursuit of better opportunities and the American Dream.

Symbolism of Aspiration: The choice of an airplane as the mode of transportation symbolizes the aspirational nature of Chandru's decision.

Airplanes are associated with progress, modernity, and the pursuit of higher goals. By choosing an airplane, the narrative un derscores
Chandru's ambition for a better life and the broader theme of globalization.

Geographical and Cultural Distance: Air travel highlights the geographical and cultural distance between the two countries. The airplane

represents the vast expanse that separates Chandru from his family in India, emphasizing the significant physical and cultural gaps that arise
due to his decision to move to the United States.

Globalization and Connectivity: The use of an airplane aligns with the theme of globalization, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the

world. Air travel signifies the ease with which people can move across borders, contributing to the narrative's exploration of the impact of
globalization on familial relationships and cultural values.

While the specific mode of transportation is not explicitly stated in the story, if we consider the broader themes and symbolism within "Dollar
Bahu," the choice of an airplane for Chandru's journey would be more fitting. It aligns with the narrative's exploration of ambition, cultural clash,
and the transformative effects of pursuing the American Dream.

Q. 5 How did Chandru meet Vinuta ? Where was she coming from long answer

Answer In Sudha Murthy's "Dollar Bahu," the meeting between Chandru and Vinuta is a crucial moment in the narrative. Chandru encount ers
Vinuta during a train journey, and the circumstances surrounding this meeting contribute to the unfolding dynamics of their relationship.

Chandru, a young man with aspirations and dreams, is on a train journey from Hubli to Bangalore. It is during this train jour ney that he comes
across Vinuta. Vinuta, a young woman from a traditional family, is traveling on the same train. She is coming from Shiggaon, a town in
Karnataka, and is on her way to her aunt's house in Hubli.

The train journey serves as the backdrop for the initial interaction between Chandru and Vinuta. It is noteworthy that the setting of a train journey
is a common literary trope symbolizing the journey of life itself. The chance meeting on the train becomes a significant turn ing point for both
characters, as it sets in motion a series of events that will shape their destinies.
Vinuta's journey from Shiggaon to Hubli and eventually meeting Chandru on the train introduces the readers to the cultural context of the
characters. Shiggaon, a small town, represents traditional values and close-knit communities. Vinuta's journey from this small town becomes
symbolic of the collision between traditional values and the broader world Chandru represents, marked by aspirations, modernity, and the pursuit
of the American Dream.

The train journey becomes a metaphorical journey for both Chandru and Vinuta, symbolizing their individual paths and the traj ectory of their
relationship. Sudha Murthy skillfully uses this setting to lay the foundation for the cultural clash and complex d ynamics that will unfold as the
story progresses. The meeting on the train serves as the starting point for the intertwining of their lives, ultimately leading to the exploration of
themes such as tradition, ambition, and the impact of globalization on familial relationships in "Dollar Bahu."

SHORT QUESTION ANSWER

Q.1 Write a note on the characterization of Dollar Bahu?

Ans. The story is set at bengaaluru. It is a typical kannada family with a mother in low gouramma who is mad after money and does not
value relations. The characters are simple whome we can see around us. W e feel them like us. Writer has expressed their inner fellings
and conflict very well. Characters have only one side –e,g., gouramma is only after money or vinuta is all full of suffering or girish has no
personality of his own. These charcters do not reflect the complexity of human nature that are seen in real life. The problems they face in
life are too simple and the and the solutions they find out are also too simple. Though they are one-dimensional yet sudha murthy has
shaped characters in a brilliant way and most important fact is that we can relate all the characters in the story to our real lives quite
easily. Each characters is crafted in such a way that the reader connected very esily. Their fellings and sufferings seem to be our own and
one tends to seek some moral from the characters of the story, such as-Gourammas ,s characters proves that values are more important
than the money Vinuta is the epitone of love and care for elders while Jumuna shows how selfish a person may be. The male cha racters
appear rather dull and are not developed as the female characters are still. The nove l portrays progressive male characters and they Play
their role well. The characters have been sketched well and the best part is that thay seem realisitic.

Q.2. How does dollar affect lives of Indian people in the story?

Ans. Dollar plays an important role in the story. The sudden entry of dollars disturbed the peaceful cohesive structure of shamman na
family. The main character gouramma has a storng love for dollar. Gouamma ‘s obsession with dollars and the NRI tag is the most
omnipresent topic in the novel as she advises her daughter to find an NRI husband as she thinks dollar to be all powerful. Ev en in surbhi’s
marriage more Impotantance is given to Jumuna because they have contributed only one lakh. Thus, different fromof un touchability has
entered the family with the arrival of dollar in the Indian life and this discriminatory treatment is due to the dollar mania c.

Dollar further affects the lives of this family when the mother –in-low keeps on comparing her two daughters-in-low, Jamuna and
vinuta, not on the basis of their virtue potential but in the basis of moneteay potential. Personal human touch lost its valu e. It is replaced
by commercial considerations. Even vinuta fells depression and hates the word dollar’ and even she prays to God to make dollars equal
to one rupee. On the other side, the Dollar bahu encashes every dollar spent on Gouramma by making her to do all the household work,
to look after them and to baby sit Manasi. Chandru, who was supporter of his mother’s dream for dollar now says that they have to pay
full value of each dollar as they have to be far away from home, family and culture and they keep worrying about their childr en who are
confused between the two value system. Actually, the price they have to pay is very high. Shamanna, Gouramma’s husband is the only
person in the family who could realize the corrupt and devastating influence of dollar on his family and knows the worth of material value
and spiritual value.
Q.3. Compare and contrastthe characters of Jamuna and vinuta.

Ans.Jamuna and vinuta both are the daughter-in- low of gouramma. Jamuna being the rich, gets all affection of her mother -in-low while
vinuta, in spite of fullfiling her duties very well does not get love form her mother-in-low. Jamuna ‘s vampish traits are in sharp contrast to
the sweet Vinuta who sacrifices her happiness to see other happy.

1.Selfish v/s Selfless; Jamuna, the titular characters of the novel, is a cunning and self -centered lady. Her moves are calculated
and manipulative. She manipulates Gouaramma and her gray shades. She wishes to be accepted, praised and worsgipped due to her
dollars. She does not respect anyone. She shows that she respects them but she is only a selfish person who does not hesitate to give
used sarees in the marriage of her sister-in-low.

2.Rich v/s Orphan: Jamuna is from a wealthylife weddedto chandru who erans well in united states. She takes undue advantage
of her affluence, education and the fact that she is gainfully emploved in a foreign land. She flaunts her welth at them to mute them
against her shortcomings of not respecting them whereas Vinuta is an orphan and from a poor family and even her husband Girish ia a
bank clerk and does not earn much, so she has to bear all the taunts of her mother -in-low.

3. Cold v/s Loving : Jamuna has an indifferent attitude. She thinks that she is entitled to specialprivileges and has a fals e pride.
She is cold and aloof not only to Gouramma and Vinuta but towards chadru as well. Vinuta is affectionate and takes care of everyone.
She is an orphan so she gives importance to the family.

Thus, both the daughters-in-low has have greate contrast.

Q.4. Write a note on the inner conflict on Vinuta.

Ans. Vinuta, the central character in Sudha Murthy's "Dollar Bahu," experiences a profound inner conflict throughout the novel. This inner
turmoil arises from the complex web of emotions, societal expectations, and personal aspirations that she grapples with. Here are some key
aspects of Vinuta's inner conflict:

Ambition vs. Tradition: Vinuta finds herself torn between her ambition for a better life, symbolized by the pursuit of the dollar, and her

adherence to traditional values. Her husband's move to the United States for better financial prospects creates a conflict between the desire for
material success and the preservation of cultural roots.

Family Loyalty vs. Personal Happiness: Vinuta's loyalty to her family and her sense of duty as a wife and mother clash with her personal

yearnings for happiness and fulfillment. The novel explores the tension between fulfilling societal expectations and pursuing individual
happiness, emphasizing the sacrifices often demanded by traditional roles.

Cultural Identity: Vinuta undergoes a conflict of identity as she tries to balance her Indian cultural values with the American lifestyle embrac ed
by her husband. This clash of cultures creates a sense of displacement, forcing her to navigate between two worlds and question her own
identity.

In essence, Vinuta's inner conflict in "Dollar Bahu" is a poignant exploration of the complexities faced by individuals when caught between
societal expectations, personal aspirations, and the challenges of adapting to change. Sudha Murthy skillfully portrays the internal struggles of
her character, making Vinuta a relatable figure for readers navigating their own paths through the intricate tapestry of life's choices and
dilemmas.
Q.5. Write a note on Murthy’s treatment of Indian and Western cultures.

Ans. Sudha Murthy, in her writings, often explores the interplay between Indian and Western cultures, presenting a nuanced portray al of the
clash and coexistence of these diverse cultural influences. This treatment is evident in various facets of her storytelling:

Cultural Clashes and Contrasts: Sudha Murthy skillfully depicts the clashes and contrasts between Indian and Western cultures. This is

often highlighted through the experiences of characters who find themselves caught between traditional Indian values and the more
individualistic and fast-paced Western way of life. The conflicts that arise serve as a lens through which readers can reflect on the differences
and similarities between these cultural paradigms.

Globalization and Its Impact: Sudha Murthy addresses the impact of globalization on Indian society. Through her stories, she examines how
Western ideas, technology, and lifestyles permeate and influence traditional Indian settings. This exploration offers readers a glimpse into the
complexities and challenges of navigating a rapidly changing global landscape.

Cultural Adaptation: Characters in Sudha Murthy's works often undergo processes of cultural adaptation. Whether it's characters moving to
Western countries or encountering Western influences within India, Murthy explores how individuals grapple with adapting to new cultural norms
while preserving their own identity and values. This theme adds depth to her narratives, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of the human
spirit.

Celebration of Diversity: While acknowledging the challenges posed by cultural differences, Sudha Murthy also celebrates the richness of

diversity. Her works emphasize that cultural exchange can lead to mutual understanding, personal growth, and the enrichment of one's
worldview.

In summary, Sudha Murthy's treatment of Indian and Western cultures in her writings is marked by a thoughtful and balanced exploration of the
complexities inherent in cultural interactions. Through her characters and narratives, she invites readers to contemplate the coexistence of
different cultural paradigms, fostering a greater appreciation for diversity and the shared humanity that transcends geographical and cultural
boundaries.

Q.4. Sketch the character of Gouramma?

Ans. Gouramma is a significant character in Sudha Murthy's novel "Dollar Bahu." She plays the role of the traditional mother-in-law, and her
character is multifaceted, embodying both the strengths and limitations of traditional Indian values. Here's a sketch of Gour amma:

Traditional Values: Gouramma epitomizes traditional Indian values. Her character is deeply rooted in cultural norms, and she upholds the

traditional roles and responsibilities expected of women in the family. As a matriarch, she is committed to preserving the family's cultural heritage
and passing it on to the next generation.

Maternal Figure: Gouramma is not only a mother-in-law but also serves as a maternal figure for Vinuta, her daughter-in-law. Despite the

challenges presented by the cultural clashes between Vinuta's aspirations and the traditional values Gouramma upholds, Gouramma is
portrayed as caring and concerned about Vinuta's well-being.

Conflict with Modernity: Gouramma's character grapples with the conflict between traditional values and the changing, more modern world.
This conflict is exemplified in her relationship with Vinuta, who represents a younger generation with different aspirations and views on life.
Gouramma's character highlights the tensions that can arise within families when traditional and modern values clash.
Symbol of Sacrifice: Gouramma's life is marked by sacrifices made for the sake of her family. Her sacrifices, both big and small, serve as a
testament to the selflessness ingrained in her character. This selflessness, however, can sometimes be at odds with the individual aspirations of
other family members.

Cultural Identity: Gouramma is deeply connected to her cultural identity. Her character reflects the pride and attachment to cultural traditions ,
rituals, and customs. This attachment, while grounding the family in its roots, can also become a source of tension when confronted with the
changing cultural landscape.

Resilience and Strength: Despite facing challenges and changes within the family, Gouramma exhibits resilience and strength. Her character
undergoes transformation as she navigates the complexities of a family that is straddling both traditional and modern worlds.

In "Dollar Bahu," Gouramma's character serves as a representative of the older generation's values, providing a rich backdrop for exploring the
generational and cultural shifts that occur within the family. Her complexities make her a compelling character, and her journey reflects the
challenges and triumphs of individuals attempting to navigate the evolving landscape of cultural traditions and famili al expectations.

VERY SHORT QUESTION ANSWER

Q.1 To which genre does this book belong to?

Ans This book which is written in basic and simplified prose belongs to fiction. The story reads very like a fable which tells wh at happens
when you value only money.

Q.2 In which language was Dollar Bahu written and in which year was the book published??

Ans Dollar Bahu was written in Kannada with the title Dollar Sose (Sose means daughter -in-law) which was later translated in many
languages such as Marathi, Hindi, Telugu, Gujrati, English etc. The sweet moralistic story Dollar Bahu by Sudha Murthy was published in
2007.

Q.3 Who has written Dollar Bahu?

Ans Sudha Murthy has written "Dollar Bahu.

Q.4 In the end what realization does Gouramma have?

Ans In the end of "Dollar Bahu," Gouramma realizes the importance of familial bonds and understanding. She recognizes that while cultural
values are significant, it is essential to embrace change and adapt to evolving family dynamics. Gouramma learns the value of love,
communication, and acceptance in fostering a harmonious family life. This realization underscores the theme of the novel, emphasizing the need
for a balance between tradition and modernity within the context of familial relationships.

Q.5 What is story of Dollar Bahu About?

Ans the story is about the attraction of the western world or Dollars, Dollar still attracts Indian middle-class. How money can affect
relationships is shown in the story.

Q. 6 Which country and culture does the story of Dollar Bahu represent?
Ans The story of "Dollar Bahu" primarily represents the cultural clash between traditional Indian values and the Western lifestyl e, particularly in
the context of Indian families with members working in the United States. The narrative unfolds as Chandru, a member of an Indian family,
moves to the United States in pursuit of a better life, symbolized by the American Dream and the earning of dollars. The clas h of cultures
depicted in the story is between the traditional Indian culture, with its values, customs, and family expectations, and the more individualistic and
fast-paced Western way of life.

Therefore, the cultural representation in "Dollar Bahu" is centered on the juxtaposition of Indian and Western values, with a specific focus on the
impact of the American Dream on an Indian family.

Q.7 What are the names of the Bahu of the book?

Ans The names of the Bahus (daughters-in-law) in the book "Dollar Bahu" are Vinuta and Shyamala.

Q.8 What does the title of the sotry suggest?

Ans The title "Dollar Bahu" suggests the central theme of the story, highlighting the impact of the pursuit of the American Dream and the
earning of dollars on the dynamics of an Indian family.

Q.9 What is the moral of the story?

Ans The moral of the story in "Dollar Bahu" revolves around the importance of understanding, adaptability, and the balance between traditional
values and the changing dynamics of family life in the face of globalization.

Q.10 Make characters of the novella Dollar Bahu are not portrayed well-discuss.

Ans There are three main male characters in the story – shamanna – the wise father and two sons-Chandru and Girish. The male
characters are not developed so well and look pale before the female characters who are painted with master stroke.

Conclusion
Sudha Murthy's Dollar Bahu speaks the universal experiences of people who are always caught in the eternal conflict of value and
virtue. They feel the need of both in life but very often fail to balance the both and perhaps experience the loss. Sudha Murthy's almost all
writing is centred at value theory. She deftly draws the outcomes of the increasing hedonist tendency in human beings. Their
constant comparisons with the rich people results into aggression and follow up of wrong means to accumulate wealth. All the NRIs staying
in America depicted in the novel have reached to America for the money. Majority of them are compelled to do so because of their family
responsibility. There they realize that their hard work is properly paid but they also realize that they are being indirectly robbed by their own
relatives in India because the Indians in the novel think of dollars in terms of money Sudha Murthy's character Shammana rightly says that
nothing comes free. Not even money. One has to pay price for everything one wants. Money may be accumulated by losing relations and
relations may be earned by losing money. Jamuna has money but no relations. Vinuta has relations but paucity of money. Chandru loses
both money and relations because his mother and sister as well as his wife care for his money and not for him. Gouramma, earlier caught
between the conflict of value and virtue learns in the course of time that one cannot have both at a time and one has to decide the priority.
Shamanna can better understand the places of value and virtue in life. He knows the necessity of money but is also aware that money cannot solve
all the problems. Sudha Murthy has effectively elaborated on the idea of need and greed as well as v alue and virtue. Abe autiful thought
says.