 Anamika is confident that she will be able to get in, but feels conflicted about contributing to the country's brain drain; ultimately, she concludes that it would be best to return to her native country after the completion of her studies to contribute to the modernization of traditional Indian society and breaking down the rigid caste system.The novel is set against the backdrop of the protests against the recommendations of the Mandal commission, which trigger several acts of self-immolation.In particular, classes are suspended for weeks on end, and Anamika finds more time than usual to pursue her private interests.