He Mahajiban

• Author: Sunil Gangopadhyay
• Genre: Novel (Upanyas)
• Cover: Hardcover 
• ISBN: 9788177566710
• Pages: 236
• Weight: 352 grams

He Mahajiban (O Great Life) is a profound and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of memory, identity, and political ideology. The story revolves around Hemkanti, a man who finds himself trapped in memory loss, unable to recognize anyone or remember his own past. His mind feels like a slate being wiped clean, with only scattered remnants of songs, poems, and fleeting memories.

Hemkanti had once been a part of the Naxalite movement in the 1970s, but after a failed suicide attempt, he is left with a deep sense of confusion and a fragmented mind. His only remaining memory is the incident from five years ago in Purulia, when a former Naxalite named Barun Ghoshdastidar was murdered. Was Hemkanti involved in the murder? As he battles with his identity and memories, he longs for clarity and light to emerge from the darkness of his past.

His companion, Joyee, becomes an important figure in his quest for answers. As they journey through Purulia, they confront their shared past and the shifting dynamics of the Maoist movement. Hemkanti seeks the truth about his involvement in the revolution, the political beliefs he once held, and whether those beliefs still hold any meaning in the present. The novel poses critical questions about the nature of political commitment, personal responsibility, and the evolution of ideals over time.

About the Author:

Sunil Gangopadhyay was born on September 7, 1934, in Faridpur, Bangladesh. He was an eminent Bengali poet, novelist, and short story writer. Gangopadhyay completed his Master's degree in English from Calcutta University and began his professional career through various jobs, including working as a trainer at an insurance company, a government office clerk, and later as the editor of a daily newspaper.

He is best known for his contribution to Bengali literature, particularly as the founder and editor of the literary magazine "Krittibas", which became a major force in Bengali poetry. Gangopadhyay is celebrated not only for his poetry, but also for his novels and short stories, which often delve into complex psychological and social issues.

His first novel, "Atmaprakash", was published in the Shyama Devi magazine, and he achieved great fame with his fiction and short story collections. His works are known for their deep humanism and the ability to explore complex themes like love, identity, and the clash of ideals.

Gangopadhyay's notable accolades include the Ananda Puraskar, the Bankim Puraskar (1983), and the Sahitya Akademi Award (1985). He also wrote under the pseudonyms Neel Lohit, Sanatan Pathak, and Neel Upadhyay.

Sunil Gangopadhyay passed away on October 23, 2012, leaving behind a legacy of timeless literature.