Galpasangraha

• Author: Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay
• Genre: Rachanabali - Rachanasangraha - Rachanasamagra
• ISBN: 9788177561425
• Pages: 916
• Weight: 1208 grams
• Format: Hardcover

Overview:

• Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay, renowned for his detective and historical stories, also wrote a variety of short stories that explore different genres: supernatural, social, romantic, and humorous.
• These stories are rich in his unique style, blending classic literary sensibilities with timeless appeal.
• While his popular detective and historical tales have often overshadowed these short stories, they showcase his unparalleled storytelling skills, elevating him to a pinnacle of excellence in Bengali literature.
• Sharadindu himself acknowledged that short stories came more naturally to him. He believed in writing with precision and care, often quoting “Brevity is the soul of wit,” emphasizing the importance of careful and thoughtful composition.
• These stories stand out for their narrative finesse, classical elegance, and seamless flow of prose, making them a significant contribution to Bengali storytelling.
• Literary critic Sukumar Sen has pointed out that these stories are marked by:
  • Captivating charm
  • Enjoyability
  • Smooth elegance in prose style
  • Masterful storytelling
• Additionally, the stories are known for their vivid settings and environment creation. In his supernatural and social stories, Sharadindu reflects regions such as Munger in Bihar, Pune, and Maharashtra, alongside the portrayal of middle-class Bengali life and aspirations.
• This collection brings together a rich variety of stories that highlight his expertise in diverse narrative forms and subjects.

About the Author:

• Name: Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay
• Born: 30th March 1899, Jounpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
• Parents: Father: Tarabhushan; Mother: Bijliprava
• Early Life & Education:
  • Studied in Munger and at Vidyasagar College, Kolkata.
  • Earned a law degree from Patna, after initially enrolling in L College.
• Personal Life:
  • Married early to Parul.
• Literary Career:
  • Began his literary journey with poetry, publishing his first poetry collection Joubanasmrit in 1325 Bengali calendar.
  • Focused on stories from 1929 onwards, with a strong presence in the film industry from 1938, writing screenplays for Bombay Talkies and later freelancing.
  • Settled in Pune after severing ties with the film industry in 1952.
• Other Interests:
  • Deep interest in astrology, and used the pseudonym Chandras has for some of his works.
• Awards:
  • Rabindra Award, University of Kolkata's Sharatsmriti Award, Matilal Award, and more.
• Death: 22nd September 1970