What is the main motif in the novel, Thirst?

Thirst, the book's title, serves as a motif throughout the novel. Minni's community is literally suffering from the lack of water that will quench their natural thirst. Figuratively, Minni thirsts to give hope to everyone in her community.

The people of Mumbai are desperate since the monsoons are no longer reliable each year for supplying water. Consequently, long lines form of those waiting to get water from the public taps. Though the water is unsuitable for use without first boiling, it is a lifeline for the poverty-stricken. The wealthy are able to buy water from the water mafia who steal water and resell it for huge amounts of money.

Minni has a thirst to give hope to those around her. She is able to do so when she identifies a member of the water mafia, and he is arrested. Minni and the community see this as a sign that there will be justice. With justice comes the hope for significant changes in the water situation.

Although the culture in Mumbai does not see education as important for Minni, she thirsts for an education. She works hard, juggling all of her responsibilities at school and on the job at Anita's. Additionally, she takes a community class on computers because she knows that education provides hope for the future.