Moitreyi

• Author: Shubhabrata Ray Choudhury (শুভব্রত রায় চৌধুরী)
• Genre: Drama and Drama Studies (Natak O Natak Samparkita)
• ISBN: 9789354250439
• Cover : Hardcover
• Pages: 156
• Weight: 298 grams

Book Description

Moitreyi, a theatrical adaptation based on the profound narrative of Maitreyi and Yajnavalkya from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, explores the intricate themes of self-knowledge, love, and spiritual pursuit. Maitreyi, the philosopher-wife of sage Yajnavalkya, is depicted as a seeker of ultimate truth, while Yajnavalkya assumes the role of her mentor and spiritual guide.

This screenplay was remarkably written by Shubhabrata Ray Choudhury at the age of just seventeen, during a time when screenwriting was an innovative concept in India. The work received Rabindranath Tagore's blessings and was lauded as a pioneering effort in Bengali literature. Professor Janardan Chakraborty commended the author, stating, “The author is not just a trailblazer in this domain but remains unparalleled and unique.”

Published more than eight decades ago, Moitreyi remains a timeless narrative, encapsulating the duality of knowledge and devotion through the lens of its central characters. The tale transcends time, offering a poignant exploration of philosophical inquiry and emotional depth.

Highlights

• A profound adaptation of the Maitreyi-Yajnavalkya narrative from the Upanishads.
• Authored at the age of seventeen, showcasing exceptional literary brilliance.
• Explores themes of self-knowledge, philosophy, love, and spirituality.
• Widely regarded as a pioneering effort in Bengali drama and screenplay.

Author's Bio

Shubhabrata Ray Choudhury (শুভব্রত রায় চৌধুরী) was born into the renowned Basu Ray Choudhury family of Ulpur, present-day Bangladesh. His father, Gunendranath, and mother, Leelabati, played significant roles in shaping his intellectual and literary pursuits.

At the time of writing Moitreyi, he was a first-year student at Chittagong College. He later completed his postgraduate degree in Philosophy from Calcutta University, securing second rank and receiving a gold medal. Despite his early literary success, his career spanned academia and a senior role at Indian Airlines.

Notable works such as Udbodhan and Greek Darshan were penned shortly after Moitreyi. In later years, he returned to literature, earning acclaim for his essays in Samakaline and Kalchetana. His writings, including Raseler Swapno and Rabindranath O Char Adhyay, remain celebrated contributions to Bengali literary and philosophical discourse.