Freedom Lost in Rights

Book Details

• Author: Smriti Kumar Sinha

• Translator: Ramlal Sinha

• Language: English

• Binding: Paperback

• ISBN: 9788119626090

• Pages: 204

• Release Date: 02-10-2024

About the Book

Smriti Kumar Sinha’s second collection of short fiction invites readers into the rich and poignant world of the Bishnupriya Manipuri community, an indigenous group in the Northeast of India. With deeply moving stories that explore themes of belonging, identity, and the struggle to preserve an endangered language, this collection becomes a bridge connecting the past with the present, tradition with modernity.

The stories in this collection resonate with universal themes—an elderly man yearning to return to his homeland, lovers caught between familial expectations and personal desires, and the dream of children who wish to sing in their mother tongue. As these characters navigate their challenges, the language of their ancestors remains a source of both comfort and struggle.

Through the translation by Ramlal Sinha, the prose takes on a soft, lyrical quality that envelops readers in the world of Bishnupriya Manipuri. The tales are set against the vibrant tapestry of Northeast India, where syncretic cultures and resistance meet, adding depth and significance to each narrative. The stories not only highlight the trials of a community on the brink of extinction but also showcase their spiritual joy, resilience, and determination to preserve their heritage.

This collection is a significant addition to the Indian literary landscape, offering a glimpse into a world that is often overlooked, making it an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of minority cultures, endangered languages, and the power of storytelling.