Beche Thaka

Author: Sunil Gangopadhyay

Genre: Novel

Format: Hardcover

ISBN: 9788172159719

Pages: 128

Weight: 221 grams

Book Description:

In a dark, damp rented house, young Anupam slowly realizes that his father, Indranath, is a failed singer, a failed husband, and a failed father. The breaking point comes one night when Indranath beats his mother with a whip—but why?

Indranath had once migrated from East Bengal as a refugee, but why is he losing the battle of life? Why did Anupam’s mother, Madhuri—a woman from an affluent family—leave her home despite enduring years of hardship? Searching for these answers, Anupam finds himself alone, his world reduced to a few friends, private tuitions, and his poetry notebook.

One day, Indranath also leaves, disappearing without a trace. But where did he go? Even as his family crumbles, Anupam dares to dream. Does he dream of touching the vast sky and endless sea?

Key Themes:

• Family struggles and broken relationships
• The emotional trauma of displacement and refugee life
• Loneliness and self-discovery through poetry
• Hope and resilience despite life's harsh realities

About the Author:

Sunil Gangopadhyay (b. September 7, 1934 – d. October 23, 2012) was one of the most celebrated Bengali writers, known for his poetry, novels, and children's literature.

• Early Life & Education:

  • Born in Faridpur, Bangladesh, later moved to Kolkata.
  • Earned an M.A. from Calcutta University.
  • Started his career as a private tutor before working in various fields, including insurance, government offices, and journalism.

• Literary Career & Legacy:

  • Founder-editor of "Krittibas" magazine, which played a crucial role in modern Bengali poetry.
  • Gained fame as a poet before transitioning into novel writing.
  • First novel: "Atmaprakash", published in Desh magazine.
  • Notable for writing under the pseudonyms "Neel Lohit," "Sanatan Pathak," and "Neel Upadhyay."
  • Awards:
    • Ananda Puraskar (early in his career)
    • Bankim Puraskar (1983)
    • Sahitya Akademi Award (1985)

With deep psychological insight and poetic storytelling, Beche Thaka is a powerful tale of loss, survival, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.