Here is a brief summary of the story:
The protagonist, a middle-aged man named Gopal, is a hypochondriac who has been experiencing various health issues, including headaches, fatigue, and constipation. After visiting several doctors and trying different treatments without success, Gopal decides to take matters into his own hands and embark on a ten-day fast. He believes that fasting will purify his body and eliminate his illnesses.
As the fast begins, Gopal experiences intense hunger pangs, weakness, and dizziness. He struggles to resist the temptation to eat or drink, and his determination is tested by his family and friends, who try to persuade him to break the fast. Gopal also faces challenges in maintaining his daily routine and carrying out his responsibilities, as he is severely weakened by the fast.
Throughout the story, Parsai uses satire to highlight the protagonist's irrational beliefs, self-deception, and the influence of societal pressures on personal health choices. Gopal's obsession with fasting and his unwavering belief in its benefits, despite the lack of scientific evidence, becomes a source of amusement and criticism for the reader.
The story takes an unexpected turn when Gopal suddenly falls seriously ill and is rushed to the hospital. There, he is diagnosed with a severe infection that requires immediate treatment. The irony of the situation highlights the negative consequences of Gopal's self-imposed fast, which ultimately does more harm than good to his health.
In the end, Gopal realizes the folly of his actions and vows to seek professional medical advice instead of relying on unproven methods. The story ends with a humorous twist as Gopal's family and friends devise a plan to help him break the fast in a light-hearted and enjoyable manner.