It is the dream of every immigrant to live a worry free life in a new country that can offer so much; a place where one can work for suitable wages, can raise their children free of the problems plaguing their previous country and a place where they can grow spiritually and socially. While some people might believe that an immigrant's struggle ends when they come to America, filmmaker Mira Nair, argues against this statement by demonstrating the struggle of immigrants over the decision of assimilating into the "new" identity and society's beliefs, clinging on to past cultures and lifestyles, and in some cases with the thought of returning back to their country.".
Immigrants constantly struggle with the difficult decision of living in one culture, yet belonging to another. The film "Namesake" by Mira Nair clearly illustrates the struggle of first-generation immigrants to assert a western identity, as well as to maintain their Bengali traditions. As soon as Ashoke and Ashima arrived in America, the audience can observe the struggles Ashima has adapting to the new country. However, she sends a letter back to India talking about the conveniences of American life such as running water and gas which is available twenty-four hours a day. But she still misses her old life with its predictable rhythms and relatives. Nair also explores the challenges faced by the children being second-generation immigrants, represented by the main character, Gogol, who attempts to shed his Bengali identity to fully embody the American status. Yet, the journey toward re-invention, was a struggle for him. He tried so hard to not be associated to the Bengali tradition by moving out of his parents house becoming an architect, and engaging in a relationship with an American Girl. However, after the death of his father he realize how important culture and family is in his life.
In most cases, immigrants never stop thinking about their birth country and sometimes they spend their life clinging to their past culture and life style.
Famous Indian author Jhumpa Lahiri, Vietnamese writer Bich Minh Nguyen, and filmmaker Mira Nair clearly demonstrate the capriciousness of identity among immigrants in America. ... Identity is also a strongly displayed motif in Mira Nair's film, The Namesake. ...