"The God of Small Things" unravels the intricate tapestry of family, memory, and societal norms through the lens of twin siblings, Rahel and Estha. The novel shifts seamlessly between the past and present, painting a vivid picture of a family affected by tragedy and forbidden love. As the story unfolds, we witness the impact of cultural and personal conflicts that shape the lives of its characters.

Return to Ayemenem

The narrative opens with Rahel returning to her childhood home in Ayemenem, India, to reunite with her twin brother, Estha. The visit stirs memories of their early years and the period leading up to their mother Ammu's divorce from their father. Events flash back to the solemn occasion of their cousin Sophie Mol's funeral, a pivotal moment when Ammu approached the police to rectify a grave misunderstanding. This incident leads to Estha's subsequent relocation to his father’s care.

Echoes of the Past

The story briefly touches on the twins' adult lives before their return to Ayemenem. Baby Kochamma, a relative, takes pleasure in noting Estha's reticence, not only with Rahel but with everyone around him. Meanwhile, Rahel reflects on the once-thriving family business, Paradise Pickles and Preserves, as memories of Sophie Mol's demise surface in her mind.

The Journey to Cochin

The second chapter recounts a family trip to Cochin to pick up Margaret Kochamma and Sophie Mol from the airport. On their way, the family encounters a Marxist demonstration at a train crossing, where Rahel spots her friend Velutha, a Paravan employed by the Kochamma family. Her excited call to him earns a sharp rebuke from Ammu.

Complex Relationships

A flashback reveals Velutha's connection to the Kochamma family, followed by an incident where a protester forces Baby Kochamma to wave a Marxist flag. Chacko's remark that Ammu, Estha, and Rahel are burdensome underscores the family tensions. As the narrative shifts to the present, the Ayemenem House is depicted as decrepit, with Estha arriving home and washing his clothes while under Rahel's watchful eye.

The Theater Incident

At the cinema, Estha is sent to the lobby for singing during the film. There, the Orangedrink Lemondrink Man takes advantage of him, a traumatic experience that prompts the family to leave early. Ammu's offhand comment on the man's sweetness leads to a tense exchange with Rahel, deepening Rahel's fears that Ammu's affection might favor Sophie Mol.

Reflections of the Present

In the present, the narrative describes the once-vibrant river reduced to a mere stream, shadowed by a luxury hotel occupying the "History House." Rahel fields intrusive questions from Comrade Pillai and recalls his son, Lenin. The family's arrival at the Cochin Airport is marked by Baby Kochamma's instruction to the twins to be India's ambassadors.

Memories and Confrontations

As they greet Margaret and Sophie Mol at the airport, tensions arise when Estha remains silent and Rahel hides. Ammu's ensuing scolding and the twins' bonding with Sophie Mol highlight the family dynamics. In the present day, Rahel discovers their "Wisdom Exercise Notebooks" and revisits the corrections made by Ammu, recalling her mother's last visit and lonely passing.

Unfolding Drama

Upon returning home with Margaret and Sophie Mol, the atmosphere is likened to a theatrical performance. Rahel sneaks away from the cake distribution to play with Velutha, while Ammu's glance at Velutha hints at deeper feelings. The narrative explores the developing friendship between the twins and Sophie Mol as Rahel, in the present, wanders through the deserted factory.

Escalation of Events

Estha's solitary wanderings lead him to the pickle factory, and the twins plot to stockpile supplies at the "History House." Velutha assists in repairing...