Markandaya's Nectar in a Sieve, has a theme of modernization. Different characters in the book react differently to modernization and the elements or situations that come with it. Rukmani believes that modernization is helpful to her family and teaches her children how to read and write, which is a nontraditional thing to do, while Kunthi believes that a traditional household is the best household and spreads this by arguing with Rukmani, when Kunthi finds her doing s a very nontraditional thing of seeking for another mans help. Kenny, on the other hand believes that modernization is the best way to live, and shows this by bringing in modern aspects into Rukmani's community. These three characters respond differently to the different elements
