The significance of Baba

          Baba was the last child for the family. He was the only boy and later on in the story, it was clear that the family had intentions of him taking up after his father and working at the office. Baba's birth even brought up jealousy issues for Tara, who was up until then as the baby of the family. However, handsome and well behaved Baba was, he caused great discomfort and inconvience for his mother. The mother was obsessed with playing bridge and was chronically sick with diabetes. Never wanting to have any children of her own, Bab was a great burden to his mother. It is important to note that Baba was mentally ill and nver spoke a word in his life. Due to Baba's ailment, it forced the introduction of Mira-masi.
         Additionally, Baba was like a dark cloud hovering over the family. Baba's non verbal (shaking his head and lowering his face) communications with Bim and the family whenever there was a need to go to meetings at the office placed a great burden on Bim. She was often embarrassed by Baba's physical circumstances. Also, Baba's obsession with his gramophone was a nuisance and embarassment for the family. Blaring music form Baba's room acted as background music for the sometimes  chaotic events of the family. Bab's gramophone also served as a reminder of how litttle Bim and Mira-masi could really do for him since the gramophone was the only thing that calmed him after one of his episodes.
        Moreover, Bbab's illness caused Bim great misery. Being the older sister and the only sibling to remain at home, Bim was for ced to take care of Baba. Though Bim never admitted her misery, it was apparent that Baba was a element that held Bim back from all her 'heroism'. Baba wa also a soruce of embarrassment for Tara during her high school years. Tara remembered some of the teachers making remarks about how is mentally ill and maybe that was why Tara seemed so unsuccessful in school.
       Baba's Pleasant face and demeanor made it clear that he was quite happy in his own little world inside his room with his records. But outside of his world and carefreeness, Baba's presence seemed to make everyone resentful and guilty, especially Bim. However, Baba indirectly taught his family patience and how to love dispite the unaffectionate reply.