Chander Pahar

• Author: Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay (বিভূতিভূষণ বন্দ্যোপাধ্যায়)
• Genre: Children's Fiction (Chotoder Boi)
• Formats: Hardcover
• ISBN: 9789350400401
• Pages: 176
• Weight: 223 grams

About the Book

Chander Pahar (চাঁদের পাহাড়) is a timeless Bengali classic by Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay, narrating the extraordinary adventure of a young Bengali boy, Shankar Roy Chowdhury. A natural athlete, skilled boxer, and swimmer, Shankar’s thirst for adventure leads him from his small-town life to the vast, untamed wilderness of East Africa.

The story unfolds with Shankar taking up a job at the Uganda Railway and his chance encounter with the enigmatic Portuguese fortune-seeker Diego Alvarez. Together, they embark on a perilous journey to the fabled Richtersveld Mountains, rumored to house a mysterious diamond mine. Their quest is fraught with challenges, including the deadly wilderness, hostile terrain, and the mythical beast Bunyip that guards the treasure.

Key Themes and Highlights

• Thrilling Adventure: The novel is a gripping tale of survival, bravery, and unyielding human spirit.
• Exotic African Landscape: Detailed and vivid descriptions transport readers to the mesmerizing and dangerous African wilderness.
• Coming-of-Age: Shankar’s transformation from a young dreamer to a courageous and resilient adventurer.
• Classic Appeal: Perfect for readers of all ages, this book inspires imagination and fuels the spirit of exploration.

Why You’ll Love It

• A perfect blend of adventure, mystery, and human resilience.
• Offers a rare glimpse into colonial Africa through the lens of a Bengali author.
• The story combines naturalist writing with an edge-of-the-seat narrative.
• Ideal for readers who love tales of exploration, danger, and the triumph of the human spirit.

About the Author: Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay

Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay was born on 12 September 1894 in Muratipur, 24 Parganas, Bengal. A distinguished author, he graduated with honors in 1918 and began his career as a teacher. Over his 21-year literary journey, he authored several masterpieces, including:

• Pather Panchali
• Aranyak
• Ichhamati

His contributions to Bengali literature earned him posthumous recognition, including the Rabindra Puraskar for Ichhamati. Bibhutibhushan passed away on 1 November 1950 but remains a revered figure in Indian literature.

Conclusion

Chander Pahar (চাঁদের পাহাড়) is a classic that combines adventure, mystery, and inspiration, making it an essential read for young and old alike. The book’s immersive storytelling and rich narrative ensure its place as one of Bengali literature’s finest works. A must-read for anyone who cherishes tales of daring exploration and personal growth!