Jao Pakhi

• Author: Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay
• Genre: Upanyas (Novel)
• Format: Hardcover
• ISBN: 9788177562729
• Pages: 448
• Weight: 563 grams

Synopsis:

A ruthless bandit, Bahe ru, established a village of his own—Bahe ru Gaon—where he created a human zoo, sheltering outcasts and misfits. Into this bizarre settlement arrives Brajagopal, a man who has nothing left to desire from life. In his diary, he simply writes—"Lord, may they be happy."

Amidst the loss of moral values and direction, did Brajagopal envision an unwavering path to redemption?

His son, Somen, follows his father's trail to Bahe ru Gaon in search of answers. But every man has a place to return to. Somen too returns—to Kolkata, where life is complex, diverse, and unpredictable. His world in Kolkata is shaped by a chaotic society, relationships, and struggles—particularly with Rikhiya, the woman who plays a pivotal role in his life.

The novel brilliantly captures the conflict between village life and city life, weaving a profound tale of human emotions, separation, reunion, and survival. Through a spectrum of characters and events, ‘Jao Pakhi’ offers a vivid album of personal and societal turmoil, shaped by the cruel passage of time.

About the Author:

• Born: November 2, 1935, in Bikrampur, Dhaka (now Bangladesh).
• Early Life: Grew up in various places due to his father’s railway job—Bihar, North Bengal, East Bengal, Assam, and Kolkata during World War II.
• Education:
  • Studied in missionary schools and boarding schools in Cooch Behar.
  • Completed B.A. in Kolkata, followed by postgraduate studies at Calcutta University.
• Career:
  • Started as a school teacher.
  • Later pursued journalism, working with Anandabazar Patrika.
• Literary Journey:
  • First short story published in Desh magazine.
  • Debut novel: Ghūnpōkā (ঘুণপোকা).
  • First children’s novel: Manojder Adbhut Bari (মনোজদের অদ্ভুত বাড়ি).
• Awards & Recognition:
  • Vidyasagar Award (1985) for excellence in children’s literature.
  • Ananda Puraskar (prestigious Bengali literary award).
  • Sahitya Akademi Award (1989) for the novel Manabjamin (মানবজমিন).