Bikshipta Ardhashatak

• Author: Ashok Mitra
• Language: Bengali
• ISBN: 9789350403709
• Pages: 288
• Format: Hardcover
• Weight: 427 grams

Description:
Bikshipta Ardhashatak is a collection of thought-provoking essays by Ashok Mitra, written in the latter years of his life. The book captures the profound disappointment and the continued hope that defines Mitra’s perspective on various facets of society, politics, and culture.

• The essays explore themes of economic inequality, societal decay, and the diminishing enthusiasm in societal movements, particularly the communist movement.
• Mitra expresses frustration over the lack of response to significant political events in neighboring countries and the general apathy toward societal change.
• The book also addresses his emotional attachment to Marxist ideology, his unshakable belief in societal transformation, and his fierce criticism of the intellectual elite's complacency and hypocrisy.
• Amidst deep cynicism, Mitra refuses to relinquish hope and continues to dream of societal reforms, such as the revival of affordable literature and widespread literacy.
• The book presents a strong call to action, urging intellectuals to reassess their place in society and to re-engage with the struggles of the people.

Why Read This Book:

• It provides a sharp critique of contemporary society, especially the intellectual class and their disconnection from grassroots movements.
• Mitra's reflections are both personal and political, offering insights into the challenges of sustaining revolutionary ideals in the face of overwhelming societal challenges.
• The essays are a blend of intellectual rigor and deep emotional engagement, making them relevant for readers interested in Marxism, economics, and the future of society.

About the Author:

• Ashok Mitra was born on April 10, 1928, in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
• He was educated at Dhaka University, Benares Hindu University, and the School of Economics in the Netherlands, where he earned his doctorate in economics.
• A Marxist at heart, Mitra has held numerous prestigious positions, including as a professor at the Indian Institute of Management, Kolkata, and the Indian Statistical Institute, as well as serving as Chairman of the Agricultural Prices Commission and Economic Advisor to the Government of India.
• He was also the Finance Minister of West Bengal and a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha.
• Known for his candid and incisive writings, Mitra has published extensively in both English and Bengali, with notable works such as Akkathakukatha, Achenake Chhino Chhino, and Kabita theke Michhiley.
• He was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award for his book Tal Betal.

Unique Aspects:

• Combines intellectual depth with emotional intensity, offering a critique of both political ideologies and societal complacency.
• Reflects on the erosion of Marxist ideals while maintaining a hopeful vision for societal change.
• A must-read for anyone interested in political thought, Marxist theory, and the state of modern intellectualism in India.