Food as a Migratory Motif in Jhumpa Lahiri’s Interpreter of Maladies

This paper explores how food serves as a central motif in Jhumpa Lahiri's Interpreter of Maladies, symbolizing cultural transition and identity crises experienced by the characters in a foreign land. For many, food becomes a hold-on to their roots, a comfort, or an escape. It is a marker of identity for the diasporic community, reinforcing where they come from and who they are. For others, it helps them forget the past and explore new lives. As M.H. Abrams defines, “a motif is a recurring element that contributes to the development of the theme.” In this case, food is more than sustenance; it is a symbol deeply tied to emotion, culture, and identity. In Indian culture, food is more than a necessity; it is an expression of life, emotion, and celebration. Special dishes are tied to significant occasions, and each region has its own unique culinary traditions. In Lahiri’s stories, food is not only a basic need for the diaspora but also a cultural anchor, continuously reminding them of their heritage. It can also express emotions, as noted by Eve Jackson in her exploration of the meanings attached to food: