Alochaya

Author: Suchitra Bhattacharya
Genre: Novel (Upanyas)
Binding: Hardcover
ISBN: 9788177562958
Pages: 156
Weight: 260 grams

Book Description

"Alochaya", written by Suchitra Bhattacharya, delves deep into the lives of its characters, focusing on the emotional turmoil and psychological complexities that arise in a modern, fragmented family. The story is set around Nivedita, a social worker, whose life seems to be marked by isolation despite her involvement in social causes. Her husband, Arya, is a reclusive bookworm who remains indifferent to their relationship, leading to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.

Nivedita’s son, Anindya, and his wife Sharanya embark on a honeymoon to Darjeeling, but their relationship is far from idyllic. Sharanya quickly realizes that Anindya’s emotional indifference may stem from a deeper hollowness. The narrative unfolds as Sharanya discovers her own heartache, leading to a tragic miscarriage and the eventual dissolution of her marriage.

This family saga explores the dynamics of emotional distance and the invisible forces that manipulate relationships. As Sharanya struggles with her own emotional healing, the plot thickens with the revelation of conspiracies within Nivedita’s welfare organization. The characters in "Alochaya" are drawn as complex, multifaceted individuals who are trapped in their own emotional prisons, reflecting on the disconnect and confusion that pervades modern relationships.

About the Author

Suchitra Bhattacharya was born on January 10, 1950, in Bhagalpur, and grew up in South Kolkata. Her journey into literature began in the late 1970s. She had an early career in both education and government services, from which she later voluntarily retired. Suchitra was deeply inspired by the female experience, and much of her writing revolves around women’s struggles, the complexity of human relationships, and inner emotional conflicts.

Her works, including ‘Kacher Manush’ and ‘Dahan’, frequently explore human connection, emotional voids, and soul-searching. She was honored with several literary awards, including the Nonjanaguru Thirumalamaba National Award in 1996, Bhubanmohini Medal from Calcutta University, and the Sarat Sahitya Award among others.

Suchitra passed away on May 12, 2015, leaving behind a legacy of rich, profound literary work.

Key Highlights of the Book:

• Emotional Complexity: The novel explores the psychological dimensions of its characters, focusing on the inner conflict and alienation within relationships.
• Feminine Struggles: The story paints a vivid picture of a woman’s inner turmoil, her strength, and her challenges, both in family and society.
• Modern Family Dynamics: A keen exploration of how modern families are often disjointed, with disconnected members trying to navigate their lives individually.
• Tragic Love and Loss: The emotional journey of Sharanya and her evolving understanding of herself and her marriage is at the heart of the novel.