Swami and Friends

Krishna is a very significant god in the Hindu religion, and as Swami and Friends is set in India, he is mentioned several times throughout the narrative. In what ways can Swami be understood as having similar qualities to Krishna? In what ways can Swami be seen as different?

Swami and Friends centers mainly around Swaminathan’s friendship with both Mani and Rajam. In your opinion, which of these two boys ultimately serves as the better friend to Swaminathan? Explain your response with textual detail supported by thoughtful analysis.

Swaminathan’s father consistently berates the boy for his various misbehaviors and incompetencies. Do you think that the father is too hard on Swaminathan, or do you think that his rigid parental style is derived mainly from love?