1. Do you believe Arjun and Thambi made the right choice by opting to work at the tannery instead of following in their father's footsteps as farmers? Why or why not?

2. Why do you think Kenny gets upset with Rukmani and speaks to her harshly? Do you believe he perceives her as weak or strong?

3. Was Rukmani justified in seeking medical assistance without informing her husband?

4. What does the title Nectar in a Sieve signify to you?

5. Do you think Markandaya portrays Western values as materialistic?

6. Which characters in the novel were looked down upon, and for what reasons? What does this reveal about the values of typical South Indian villagers?

7. What is the importance of Rukmani's encounter with the cobra?

8. Compare and contrast Rukmani and Kunthi. How do their values and attitudes differ?

9. Many Westerners see Rukmani's submissiveness as a sign of weakness. Do you consider Rukmani to be weak or strong? Write a persuasive essay explaining your viewpoint.