Mohanta Elokeshi Sangbad

• Author: শ্রীপান্থ (Sripantha)
• Publisher: Ananda Publishers
• Language: Bengali
• Edition: Hardcover
• ISBN: 9788170666189
• Pages: 104
• Weight: 483 gm

Book Description:

মোহন্ত এলোকেশী সম্বাদ (Mohanta Elokeshi Sangbad) is a gripping historical narrative set in 19th-century Bengal, revolving around the tragic tale of Elokeshi, a young woman caught in a whirlwind of lust, power, and betrayal. Elokeshi, a beautiful and young bride, leads a quiet life in the village while her husband is away. In the city, Madhav Giri, the revered monk of Tarakeshwar, finds himself captivated by Elokeshi when she visits the temple for darshan.

This encounter leads to the downfall of the monk’s ascetic vows, as he falls desperately in love with Elokeshi, whose role as a devoted wife conflicts with the monk’s lustful desires. What follows is a tragic and violent turn of events: the monk’s infatuation with Elokeshi leads to a series of betrayals and manipulations, with the involvement of a scheming stepmother and a malicious maid. In a final act of vengeance, Elokeshi is murdered by her own husband, Nabina, who is consumed by jealousy and rage.

Set against the backdrop of colonial Kolkata, this true story of Elokeshi’s murder and its aftermath shocked the Bengali society and sparked debates on morality, power, and societal norms. The incident gave rise to a frenzy in both rural and urban Bengal, with songs, dramas, and paintings depicting the tragic tale of the monk and Elokeshi. Kolkata was filled with heated discussions, making the story a part of popular folklore for years to come.

Sripantha’s meticulous exploration of this historical episode sheds light on 19th-century Bengali society, reflecting not just the tragic fate of a woman, but also the moral and social currents of the time. His detailed narrative goes beyond the incident, investigating the complex dynamics of class, religion, and gender. The book is also enriched with insightful commentary on the cultural and social fabric of Bengal during the colonial era, making it a unique blend of history and social critique.

With valuable appendices, including rare paintings from Kalighat’s Patuas, মোহন্ত এলোকেশী সম্বাদ is a compelling and thought-provoking read that not only revisits a tragic episode of Bengali history but also raises important questions about society’s moral compass.