Rachana Samagra 2

• Author: শম্ভু মিত্র (Shambhu Mitra)
• Genre: Rachanabali / Rachanasangraha / Rachanasamagra (Collection of Works)
• ISBN: 9789350407639
• Pages: 528
• Weight: 877 grams
• Format: Hardcover

About the Author:

As with the first volume, Shambhu Mitra (1915–1997) is the central figure, and his life is a testament to his unwavering commitment to theater and the arts. Born in Bhawanipur, Kolkata, Shambhu Mitra developed an early passion for acting, recitation, and drama, a passion that shaped his entire career. From his humble beginnings to becoming an iconic figure in Bengali theater, Mitra’s dedication to the craft was evident in his lifelong journey. He combined intellectual curiosity with creative expression, studying not only theater but also fields such as psychology, science, and philosophy.

His dedication to theater led him to become one of the most respected figures in the Bengali theater scene. Mitra worked with a variety of dramatic forms, including stage acting, directing, and screenwriting. Throughout his career, he was awarded numerous honors, including the Padma Bhushan and Magsaysay Award, but he always remained deeply humble, crediting his success to his devotion to the stage.

Synopsis of the Book:

Rachana Samagra 2 is a crucial volume that compiles Shambhu Mitra’s works from 1962 to 1972, a transformative period in both his personal and professional life. This volume includes his essays, translated plays, and theater-related writings. It focuses on his intellectual and artistic output during this decade, shedding light on his reflections on contemporary social and political issues.

The time span covered in this volume marks a significant phase in Shambhu Mitra’s life, especially 1962, which is highlighted as a pivotal year in his career. The book is organized chronologically, providing readers with insights into the progression of his thoughts, as well as his shift in creative expression. His writings during this period reflect a blend of his personal experiences with the broader social context, making them especially relevant for those interested in the interplay between art and society.

Mitra’s essays from this period delve into his thoughts on theater, its future, and its role in shaping society. The translations of plays and the theatrical readings in this volume underscore his dedication to the universalization of theater and his belief that theater should engage with the pressing issues of the time.

This volume also marks an important continuation from the first, as it examines the shift in Mitra’s writing style and the influence of global events on his work. The period of 1962–1972 saw significant changes in the Indian political landscape, and Mitra’s writings reflect the sense of turmoil, change, and growth that characterized the time.

Rachana Samagra 2 serves as an essential part of understanding Shambhu Mitra's profound impact on Bengali theater and literature. This collection continues to unravel the layers of his thoughts, from the early stages of his intellectual and creative exploration to the more mature reflections of a man who had dedicated his life to his art.