Abagunthan

Author: Samaresh Majumdar
Genre: Novel (Upanyas)
Binding: Hardcover
ISBN: 9789354252556
Pages: 144
Weight: 269 grams

Book Description

Abagunthan is a contemporary novel set against the backdrop of the global COVID-19 pandemic, offering a unique and timely perspective on life during an unprecedented health crisis. The story introduces us to characters like Sujan, Lohama, Sharatchandra, a doctor and his wife, whose daily lives are affected by the sudden onset of the virus. As the pandemic spreads globally, Kolkata, too, is gripped by the fear and uncertainty of the unknown virus.

What starts as a casual evening chat at an elite club soon transforms into a deeper reflection on life, relationships, and existence in these strange and unsettling times. The pandemic’s fear introduces new dimensions to human relationships, especially between men and women, revealing new twists in their ongoing dynamics. Abagunthan is not just about the events happening in the world—it mirrors our own lives, capturing the emotional conflict and complexities of the quarantined existence. As the world grapples with protective measures like gloves and face masks, the novel poignantly reflects on how individuals navigate their isolation, relationships, and inner conflicts.

This novel stands out for its exploration of the human psyche in a time of crisis, capturing the melancholy, desires, and fears of its characters, making it a distinctive tale of life during the pandemic.

About the Author

Samaresh Majumdar was born on March 10, 1944, in the tea gardens of Duars, West Bengal. His childhood was spent in Jalpaiguri district, where he attended Jalpaiguri District School. He moved to Kolkata in 1960 to continue his studies. He graduated in Bengali Literature with honors from Scottish Church College, later completing his M.A. from Calcutta University.

Initially involved in group theater, Majumdar later transitioned to writing plays and subsequently ventured into fiction writing. His first short story was published in Desh magazine in 1967, and his first novel, Daud, was published in 1975. He is known for his books like Ujan Ganga, Kalbela, Lakshmir Panchali, Basabhumi, Unish Bishi, and more.

His contributions to literature have earned him many accolades, including the prestigious Ananda Award in 1982. His novel Kalbela won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1984, solidifying his place as one of the most important writers in Bengali literature. His works are often marked by their profound exploration of human emotions, relationships, and societal shifts.