PACHUCHE BET

Details:

• Translators: Shirdhankar Bhanu

• ISBN: 9789353171964

• Edition: 2

• Publishing Year: 1966

• Pages: 192

• Language: Translated from English to Marathi

• Category: Fiction

• Publisher: Mehta Publishing House

• Binding: Paperback

About the Book:

As the ship Dolly docks into the yard at Nukuheva Port, two of its sailors decide to escape from the ship’s harsh conditions. They are terrified to continue the journey on the worn-out ship, which is set for a lifelong voyage. Instead, they want to experience life with the tribal people in the region.

When they first joined the ship, they were led to believe that it would offer many attractions. However, over time, they realized that the officers aboard often violated almost every rule. The treatment of lower-ranking sailors was brutal, and exploitation by higher-ranking officers had become the norm.

During the long voyage, everyone onboard was eager to see new land, and as they traveled towards the Markisus Islanders, two sailors — Tomo (the author) and his friend Tobo — decided to escape. When the ship dropped anchor at Nukuhewa, the captain allowed them to explore the port. It was here that they saw a golden opportunity to carry out their plan. Without hesitation, they ran.

They enter the Taipi region, with nothing but a few loaves of bread and biscuits to sustain them. As they endure the hardships of survival, they are eventually detained by the Taipi people for four months. The story of how they managed to survive this period is both gripping and insightful.