Hmm...I have a different perspective on Elesh.
I actually like the fact that the writers of this show, portrayed a character like Elesh. I think it's very difficult to understand and relate to him but I think the writers are doing a good job in helping us figure him out slowly.
I think the reason Elesh fits in so well with this family is because the whole family believes in moments of joy and spending time together as opposed to materialistic happiness. And I think Elesh contributes to that very well. Also, another thing I like about this family is that they are very accepting of everyone! The family is full of love towards every member regardless of their faults. As well, any new member into the family is welcomed with open hearts just like Suhana was. And I think this kind of a family environment is important for a person like Elesh.
I think that Elesh is a type of person who would much rather spend time with his family, find moments of joy wherever he can and be with the people he loves. And I think it's rare to find people like Elesh in this world. All of us today are so into success and making a career, following the norms of society etc. that we forget to live the moments with those we love. That is something Elesh is very good at.
I agree he has his faults but I don't think he doesn't care. He's just the type of person for whom family is more important than a career. It's just about priorities in life I guess. For some people, a career is important. Maybe for Elesh it is not.
I think if he was to have a job, it would only be for his family rather than for himself. Like for Disha having a career is important for her own pride and self-esteem. But for Elesh, having a job is not something that is very important to him. He would like to have a job and contribute to his family and be able to get nice things for Disha. We've seen these moments lots of times in the show where Elesh feels bad because of his lack of a career.
But he is also defying society in alot of ways. We expect men, especially in Indian culture, to be the breadwinners of the house. It is not questioned at all when a woman does not go out and work but for a man to do the same equals him not having any sense of responsibility? A girl like Suhana does not really do any work in the house or has a career ambition of any sort. Suhana in fact, does not seem to have any ambitions, goals whatsoever. How come it is okay for her to get away with this but not Elesh?
What I mean is, it's hard to understand Elesh due to our society norms etc.
But there's so much more to his character than being jobless. I don't think he should only be regarded in that manner. He's a very caring and sweet person who always tries to bring happiness into people's lives, especially those he loves best. I actually found it sweet when he asked Disha to quit school and go out with him. It shows that his wife and spending time with people he loves are more important to him than success, job, or a career. He just genuinely loves spending time with his loved ones! That is his main priority in life!
I agree that he does seem lazy and unmotivated at times, but I think we will see that side of his character explored as the show goes on. And perhaps it's also because he just hasn't found his thing yet. Something he's good at, something that he can work hard at. Perhaps that's why he's so unmotivated to work.
Anyways, I don't know the exact reason behind him being jobless, but my point is that there are other aspects to his character that make him a great person. You can see why Disha and his whole family loves him so much because of these traits.
I would like to see Elesh become motivated, maybe find his 'thing' with the help of his family and then perhaps we would see him having a goal or aim of some sort.
But basically how Badi ma said in one episode, he contributes to the house by brining in laughter and joy. He likes to keep everyone happy, and keeps all situations lighthearted. That is the beauty of his character.
Sorry for such a long analysis, but I would like to appreciate the efforts of the writers of this show in bringing forth this character. I think it will just take time to understand Elesh's character.
Edited by cute2stay - 15 years ago