Agnirath

Author: Samaresh Majumdar
Genre: Novel (Upanyas)
Binding: Hardcover
ISBN: 9788172155261
Pages: 392
Weight: 674 grams

Book Description

"Agnirath" by Samaresh Majumdar takes readers on a journey through the Darjeeling hills in West Bengal, where an unsettling period of turmoil unfolds. The novel is set against the backdrop of growing unrest in the region, where the peaceful, isolated hills suddenly ignite with the fires of rebellion and discontent.

The central character, Sayan, arrives in the hills seeking treatment for his terminal illness at a small clinic run by Dr. Uncle, where the healing power of compassion and community prevails. In this serene setting, Sayan becomes a symbol of hope and a figure surrounded by myths and reverence. He is believed by some to resemble the face of Jesus Christ and is even thought to be a divine savior. As Sayan’s presence influences everyone around him, including the locals and people like Elizabeth, an American woman dedicated to solving the region's issues, he becomes a beacon of love and peace.

However, Sayan’s journey takes a tragic turn as the rebellious tensions of the hills erupt, leading to violence and betrayal. The novel shows the collision of personal struggle and political unrest as Sayan, weakened by leukemia, tries to defend Elizabeth from an assault by a group of unruly youths. Ultimately, he succumbs to the destructive forces around him, and his life is tragically consumed by fire—his agonizing demise symbolized by the flames of a burning jeep that envelops him in an inferno.

The scope of "Agnirath" extends beyond the hills, delving into the heart of rebellion, sacrifice, and the tension between individuals and the greater political forces that shape their destinies. Through Sayan's life and death, the novel touches upon the universe itself, exploring both the personal and cosmic scale of struggle, making this a work of extraordinary depth.

About the Author

Samaresh Majumdar was born on March 10, 1944, and spent his childhood in the tea gardens of Duars. He completed his schooling at the Jalpaiguri District School and later moved to Kolkata in 1960. Majumdar completed his Bachelor's in Bengali from Scottish Church College and earned his Master’s degree from Calcutta University.

Initially involved in group theater, he transitioned to writing stories and plays. His first short story was published in 1967 in the magazine 'Desh', and his first novel, 'Daud', was published in 1975 in the same magazine.

Samaresh Majumdar's works often reflect the tensions between personal identity and the larger social-political environment, and his writing spans across various themes like rebellion, family legacy, and the human condition. His notable works include 'Daud', 'Ei Ami Renu', 'Uttaradhikar', 'Bandinibas', 'Kalbela', and 'Kaalpurush', among many others.

He has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Ananda Puraskar in 1982 for his literary achievements, and the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1984 for 'Kalbela'. His work has also influenced films, with the story of 'Daud' being adapted into a film, for which he won several film-related awards.

Key Highlights of the Book:

• Exploration of Societal Unrest: The novel examines the tension between peacefulness and violence in the Darjeeling hills and the impact of political movements on individuals.
• Myth and Reality: Sayan’s transformation into a figure of myth—his potential to be a divine savior—reflects the complex intersections of faith, politics, and personal identity.
• Cosmic and Personal Struggles: The novel stretches from the individual’s suffering to the vast expanse of the universe, contemplating the intersection of human action and cosmic forces.
• Themes of Rebellion and Sacrifice: The book is a poignant narrative of rebellion, sacrifice, and the emotional and physical cost of fighting for a cause.