The Namesake

The Namesake

Year: 2007

Runtime: 122 min

Language: English

Director: Mira Nair

Drama

A poignant story of cultural identity, this film follows the Ganguli family as they experience the challenges of adapting to a new life in America while honoring their Indian heritage. Ashoke and Ashima strive to build a future for their children, but their son, Gogol, struggles to reconcile his personal aspirations with the traditions of his family and the meaning behind his unusual name. The film explores themes of belonging, family, and the complexities of growing up between two worlds.

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Timeline & Setting – The Namesake (2007)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Namesake (2007). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The narrative unfolds over several years, transitioning from the late 20th century into the early 21st century. This time frame is marked by the experiences of immigrant families and their struggles to balance tradition with modernity, alongside personal transformations that reflect societal changes.

Location

New York, India, Taj Mahal, California

The film predominantly takes place in New York, a bustling metropolis known for its cultural diversity and fast-paced lifestyle. Significant scenes also occur in India, highlighting the contrast between Ashima's roots and her new life. The iconic Taj Mahal represents a cultural heritage that deeply influences Gogol's journey, and California serves as a symbol of independence for Sonia, further emphasizing the theme of self-discovery.

🏙️ New York 🇮🇳 India 🌍 Taj Mahal 🌅 California

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:30

Main Characters – The Namesake (2007)

Meet the key characters of The Namesake (2007), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Ashima Ganguli

Ashima is a resilient and talented Bengali woman who faces the challenges of adapting to life in America, nurturing her family while battling feelings of isolation. Her traditional upbringing instills a sense of duty and responsibility, yet she also exemplifies a deep yearning for connection and belonging. Ashima’s journey reflects the struggle between tradition and modernity.

👩‍👧‍👦 Mother 🎶 Musician 🌍 Immigrant

Ashoke Ganguli

Ashoke is a devoted husband and father, who manages the balance of his professional ambitions with the responsibilities of family life. His character embodies the immigrant experience, filled with dreams and hardships. His tragic passing becomes a catalyst for Gogol's profound exploration of his identity and heritage.

👨‍🏫 Educator 💼 Professional 🇧🇩 Bengali

Gogol Ganguli

Gogol, the son of Ashima and Ashoke, navigates the challenges of adolescence while grappling with his cultural identity. His journey is marked by notable relationships that reflect the tensions between romantic ideals and familial expectations. Ultimately, Gogol's evolution leads him to embrace his heritage and the importance of self-acceptance.

🏗️ Architect 🌍 Culturally Diverse 🤔 Searcher

Sonia Ganguli

Sonia, Gogol's sister, embodies a rebellious spirit, often clashing with traditional expectations imposed upon her family. Her desire for independence drives her to make bold choices, which ultimately lead her to California. Sonia’s character symbolizes the generational conflict and the pursuit of personal freedom within a cultural framework.

📚 Student ✈️ Adventurous 👩‍🎤 Independent

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:30

Major Themes – The Namesake (2007)

Explore the central themes of The Namesake (2007), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌍 Cultural Identity

The theme of cultural identity is central to the film, exploring the challenges faced by immigrants in preserving their heritage while adapting to a new environment. Gogol's journey portrays the struggle of fitting into two different worlds, prompting profound self-reflection and acceptance. Ashima's and Gogol's experiences highlight the complexities of familial expectations against the backdrop of a foreign culture.

💔 Loneliness and Connection

Loneliness permeates the lives of several characters, particularly Ashima, as she grapples with isolation in a new country. The narrative examines the difficulty of expressing emotions in a traditionally reserved culture. Yet, the film ultimately reveals how authentic connections emerge through shared experiences, allowing bonds to deepen despite initial emotional barriers.

🌱 Self-Discovery

Self-discovery is a pivotal theme, illustrated through Gogol's experiences as he navigates adolescence and complex relationships. From his cultural roots to his passion for architecture, each phase of his journey pushes him toward understanding himself better. The paths taken by both Gogol and Sonia emphasize the courage needed to carve one’s path, especially in the face of familial and societal pressures.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:30

Unlock the Full Story of The Namesake

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Namesake in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Namesake is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Namesake Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Namesake, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Namesake Summary

The Namesake Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Namesake with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Namesake Timeline

More About The Namesake

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More About The Namesake

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