The Broken Table: Naseeruddin Shah, Rasika Dugal | Directed by Chintan Sarda | Oscars Longlist

Summary

This poignant script explores the complexities of caregiving, memory loss, and unresolved emotional issues. The story centers on Deepti, a caregiver for Giri, an elderly man with Alzheimer's, and the impact of his late wife, Prabha, on his memory. As Deepti navigates Giri's care, she uncovers deep emotional wounds linked to Prabha's absence and the strained relationship between Deepti and her own husband, Dhruv. The narrative delves into the difficulties of understanding and communication within families, the weight of secrets, and the timelessness of love and loss.

Takeaways

• 😀 Deepti is a caregiver taking care of Giri, an elderly man suffering from Alzheimer's disease, while also managing her own personal struggles.
• 😀 Giri exhibits classic symptoms of Alzheimer's, such as memory loss, confusion, and emotional distress, particularly related to his wife Prabha.
• 😀 Giri repeatedly denies the death of his wife Prabha, which is a central emotional conflict in the script.
• 😀 Deepti is balancing her professional role as a caregiver with the emotional toll of Giri's condition, and her own unresolved issues at home with her husband Dhruv.
• 😀 There is a recurring theme of loss throughout the script, both in terms of Giri's cognitive decline and the distance in Deepti's personal life.
• 😀 Giri has vivid memories of Prabha, who he describes as a teacher and 'ass kicker,' signifying the depth of their bond and his emotional reliance on her.
• 😀 Deepti reveals her desire to become a psychologist, but faces resistance from her husband Dhruv, who dismisses therapy as an indulgence.
• 😀 Giri's emotional state worsens after Prabha's absence, and Deepti tries to manage his distress while maintaining professional distance.
• 😀 Giri’s confusion reaches a peak when he writes 'Prabha the wife is dead,' which triggers a strong emotional reaction, revealing his ongoing denial of her death.
• 😀 Deepti's role as a caregiver requires her to confront complex emotions, both in Giri’s condition and in her own personal life, leading to a deeper reflection on her own struggles and relationships.

Q & A

What is Deepti's role in the script?

Deepti is a caregiver who is hired to look after Giri, an elderly man suffering from Alzheimer’s. She helps manage his daily needs and emotional well-being, while also trying to keep him calm amidst his confusion and memory loss.

Why is Giri so emotionally distressed throughout the script?

Giri is emotionally distressed because of the loss of his wife, Prabha, who had been his constant companion for many years. His Alzheimer's condition causes him to forget that she has passed away, leading to confusion and repeated outbursts as he tries to hold onto his memories of her.

What is the significance of the orange box in the conversation?

The orange box is significant because it symbolizes Giri's memory of Prabha. He recalls that she made flattened rice for him in the orange box in the morning, a memory that becomes key in his grief and confusion when he starts to believe she is still alive, despite her passing.

What role does the concept of 'Rule number one' play in the script?

'Rule number one' is a core principle Giri recalls from his relationship with Prabha. It represents a lesson she taught him about self-acceptance and being enough as you are. This rule had a profound impact on Giri, and even in his confusion, it stands out as a meaningful aspect of his life with her.

How does Deepti handle Giri’s memory loss and emotional outbursts?

Deepti handles Giri's memory loss and emotional outbursts with patience and compassion. She attempts to calm him, offering gentle reassurances and guiding him through moments of confusion, like when he believes his wife is still alive or when he gets upset about his current condition.

What emotional challenges does Deepti face in her role as a caregiver?

Deepti faces emotional challenges as she navigates Giri's deep grief over the loss of Prabha, his confusion, and his dependency on her. She must balance her professional responsibility while emotionally supporting Giri, who has a hard time accepting the changes in his life.

What is the significance of the conversation about Dhruv, Deepti’s husband?

The conversation about Dhruv, Deepti’s husband, highlights the emotional and intellectual differences between them. Deepti expresses frustration with Dhruv's pragmatic, unsympathetic views on therapy, which contrasts with her belief in true love and personal growth. It reveals her inner conflict and unspoken dissatisfaction with her marriage.

How does the script explore the theme of memory and loss?

The script explores memory and loss through Giri's Alzheimer's condition and his emotional attachment to his wife. His struggle with memory loss leads him to repeatedly relive the past, unable to fully grasp the reality of Prabha’s death. The script also explores Deepti's own emotional struggles with personal identity and relationships, particularly her marriage.

What does Giri's reaction to Prabha's death tell us about his emotional state?

Giri's reaction to Prabha's death reveals a profound sense of denial and grief. His frequent references to her, such as recalling her cooking and his belief that she is still alive, indicate that he is unable to fully process her death due to his memory loss, which only deepens his emotional distress.

Why is the conversation about the law practice and Prabha’s painting significant in Giri's life?

The conversation about Giri’s law practice and Prabha’s painting highlights the emotional depth of their relationship. Despite Giri's financial struggles, Prabha's act of painting on his broken desk symbolized her acceptance and love. This moment illustrates the support Prabha provided him and underscores the emotional loss Giri feels after her passing.