The eldest member of the family, usually the male, would handle the finances, acting as both the Finance Manager and the Chief Executive. The family’s income often came from ancestral property or from the second generation, who worked to generate earnings. They were the ones who toiled to bring in money. The womenfolk managed the household’s day-to-day needs—food preparation, childcare, and taking care of the sick. They would submit their requests for household necessities to the head of the family, the chief.

Education and discipline of the children were handled primarily by the fathers, while the mothers provided comfort, care, and guidance to help the children grow in the right direction. The family budget was a joint effort, but the final decision always rested with the head of the household. No one was overly pampered, and no one was ignored.

There were sacrifices, but they were mutual and without resentment or misunderstandings. During festivals, the entire family would receive new clothes and other gifts with equal consideration. Everyone had their own duties to fulfill, and if each person did their part, there was no need to worry about the rest. It was all about cooperation—each person for one another.

Children grew up in an environment of love, affection, and discipline, which ensured they became well-rounded, responsible citizens. Grandparents were always there to provide comfort when the children were scolded and upset. With so many people around, arguments between husband and wife were never aired publicly or in front of the children, sparing them feelings of insecurity and fear.

But does that mean this ideal environment prevailed in every Joint Family? Was this system full of only advantages?

Continued in the eldest member of the family, usually the male, would handle the finances, acting as both the Finance Manager and the Chief Executive. The family’s income often came from ancestral property or from the second generation, who worked to generate earnings. They were the ones who toiled to bring in money. The womenfolk managed the household’s day-to-day needs—food preparation, childcare, and taking care of the sick. They would submit their requests for household necessities to the head of the family, the chief.

Education and discipline of the children were handled primarily by the fathers, while the mothers provided comfort, care, and guidance to help the children grow in the right direction. The family budget was a joint effort, but the final decision always rested with the head of the household. No one was overly pampered, and no one was ignored.

There were sacrifices, but they were mutual and without resentment or misunderstandings. During festivals, the entire family would receive new clothes and other gifts with equal consideration. Everyone had their own duties to fulfill, and if each person did their part, there was no need to worry about the rest. It was all about cooperation—each person for one another.

Children grew up in an environment of love, affection, and discipline, which ensured they became well-rounded, responsible citizens. Grandparents were always there to provide comfort when the children were scolded and upset. With so many people around, arguments between husband and wife were never aired publicly or in front of the children, sparing them feelings of insecurity and fear.

But does that mean this ideal environment prevailed in every Joint Family? Was this system full of only advantages?

Continued in 197. Broken Joints - Part 3