Bat Tala

Author: Sukanta Gangopadhyay

Genre: Novel

Format: Hardcover

ISBN: 9789350407431

Pages: 160

Weight: 279 grams

Book Description:

Set in the historical town of Deulpur, Bat Tala is a gripping novel that explores the impact of cybercrime on a traditional family. Just a short distance from Kolkata, Deulpur is a quiet town where gossip travels fast, and reputations are fragile.

The story follows Neelarka, a brilliant student who returns home from the U.S. after two and a half years. However, upon his arrival, he finds his family embroiled in a scandal—an obscene video clip featuring a family member is circulating on people’s mobile phones. Is this a technological manipulation or a bitter truth? Who leaked the video, and why?

With intricate storytelling and a suspenseful narrative, the novel unfolds the devastating consequences of cyber exploitation, raising questions about privacy, honor, and justice. Amidst all the turmoil, the silent witness to these events remains the ever-flowing Saraswati River of Deulpur.

Key Themes:

• Cybercrime and digital scandals
• Family honor and social judgment
• The tension between modern technology and tradition
• The psychological impact of public humiliation

About the Author:

Sukanta Gangopadhyay (b. 1961) is a renowned Bengali writer known for his realistic and socially relevant themes.

• Background & Education:

  • Born in Uttarpara, Hooghly, with ancestral roots in Bihar (paternal) and Dinajpur, Bangladesh (maternal).
  • Studied photography, leading to a career in photo printing technology.

• Literary Career & Awards:

  • Gained recognition after his first short story was published in Desh magazine.
  • Won multiple prestigious awards:
    • Ananda-Snowcem Sharad Arghya (1999, 2002) for Best Novel
    • Ananda-National Insurance Sharad Arghya (2003) for Best Novel & Short Story
    • Dettol-Anandabazar Sharad Arghya (2006) for Best Short Story
    • Galpomela Award (1997), Sahityasetu Award (2001)
    • Bangla Academy Sutapa Roychowdhury Memorial Award (2005)
    • Shailajananda Birth Centenary Award (2007)
    • Taradas Bandyopadhyay Literary Honor (2013)
    • Gajendrakumar Mitra & Sumathanath Ghosh Memorial Award (2014)

With sharp storytelling and a deep understanding of contemporary issues, Bat Tala is a powerful novel that reflects the dangers of technology, the fragility of reputation, and the harsh realities of modern society.