Rushika

• Author: Bimal Lama (বিমল লামা)
• Genre: Upanyas (Novel)

Book Details:

• Publisher: Ananda Publishers
• ISBN: 9789350407004
• Pages: 500
• Weight: 645 grams
• Format: Hardcover

Synopsis:
"Rushika" is a powerful portrayal of the Adivasi (indigenous) communities of Jangalmahal—their struggles, traditions, and dreams. Their land, known as Bastu, holds memories of ancestors and aspirations for future generations. Amidst the rugged stone-laden hills, they survive, nurture dreams, and preserve their rich heritage through Chhau dance and Jhumur melodies.

However, an outsider, a wandering magician, enters their world, bringing unexpected change. The people of Jangalmahal transform their artistic expressions into weapons of resistance, wielding sickles, axes, bows, arrows, Chhau, and Jhumur against oppression. As night falls, the Banparty rebels support them, while by day, another faction sings praises of parliamentary democracy, leaving the indigenous people caught in confusion.

"Rushika" is a gripping and poetic novel that captures the *essence of Jangalmahal's tribal life, their fight for identity, and their internal conflicts in a rapidly changing world.

About the Author:

• Born: July 4, 1968, in Singtam Tea Garden, Darjeeling.
• Early Life: Grew up in Hooghly district after his father, a police officer, relocated the family.
• Education:
  • Studied in Chinsurah schools and colleges.
  • Graduate from Burdwan University.
  • Law college dropout.
• Current Profession: Works as a West Bengal state government employee, stationed in Purulia.
• Literary Journey:
  • First published story appeared in a school magazine.
  • Won Desh magazine's short story competition twice.
  • Debut novel: Nun Cha.
  • Rushika is his second novel.
  • Recipient of the Jyotiprakash Chattopadhyay Memorial Award (2013).