Fate plays a major role in Slumdog Millionaire—Jamal believes it's the guiding force in his life. He knows in his heart that his destiny is leading him back to Latika, and to a future with her.
Sure enough, fueled by his deep conviction, he succeeds in finding his loved one and actualizing this fate. Indeed, his wholehearted belief in this quest gives him faith when all hope should be lost.
Questions about Fate and Free Will
- Is it really fate that has determined Jamal's path? Or is Jamal in control, making the right choices to achieve his goal?
- Jamal is pretty sold on the idea that his destiny is to be with Latika, but is there any indication that she feels the same way?
- What is the meaning of the phrase "It is written?" and what does it suggest about the role of fate and free will in the film?
Chew on This
Take a peek at these thesis statements. Agree or disagree?
Winning 20 million rupees is an act of fate; it was Jamal's destiny.
Jamal's Muslim upbringing influenced his strong belief in fate and destiny, even though he largely abandoned religion in a traditional sense following the death of his mother in the Hindu/Muslim riots.