Sandhikshan

• Author: Annadashankar Ray
• Publisher: Ananda Publishers
• Language: Bengali
• Genre: Prabandha (Essays) - Prabandhaguchcha (Essays Collection)
• Edition: Hardcover
• ISBN: 9788172150099
• Pages: 136
• Weight: 263 grams

Book Description

Sandhikshan (Meaning "Turning Point") is a profound collection of political essays by the renowned author and thinker, Annadashankar Ray. The book explores various historical and political events, offering deep reflections on their impact and implications. Among the highlights:

• French Revolution: Ray begins with an examination of the French Revolution, a pivotal moment in history, and its 200th-anniversary celebrations in 1989. This event becomes the backdrop for discussing various political turning points in world history.

• Eastern Europe Revolutions: The book also delves into the political upheavals of Eastern Europe during the same year, exploring the collapse of revolutionary regimes and the chaos that unfolded in the region.

• Other Key Events: In addition to the French Revolution, Ray reflects on events such as:

  • The unification of Germany and the disintegration of the Soviet Communist Party.
  • Political crises like the Punjab unrest, the future of Kashmir, and China's student protests.
  • The Indian Peacekeeping Force in Sri Lanka and the rise of religious parties in India.
  • Thought-provoking commentary on communalism and fundamentalism in the context of India and the world.

• Personal Insights: The collection includes personal reflections, interviews, and memories. Ray shares his insights on topics such as Nehru's policies, Rabindranath Tagore, Buddhist culture, and other matters close to his heart.

• Legacy: Ray's political insights are sharp, rational, and uncompromising. His essays remain a significant contribution to the political discourse in India, where his experience and logical approach make his opinions both respected and influential.

Key Highlights:

• In-Depth Political Essays: Includes analyses of historical political events and turning points in world and Indian politics.
• Reflection on Major Events: Discusses events such as the fall of the Soviet Union, unification of Germany, Punjab crisis, and China’s Tiananmen Square protests.
• Personal Reflections: Interspersed with Ray’s personal thoughts on key figures like Rabindranath Tagore, Nehru, and Buddhist philosophy.
• Critical and Rational Thought: Ray’s views on communalism, fundamentalism, and historical shifts are lucid and persuasive.
• Memoir-Style Insights: Includes personal interviews and anecdotes from Ray’s life and career.

Key Contributor:

• Annadashankar Ray: Born on March 15, 1904, in Dhenkanal, Ray was a distinguished writer, judge, and essayist. He was a celebrated intellectual who wrote extensively on politics, history, literature, and culture. He contributed significantly to Bengali literature and earned numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan and Sahitya Akademi Fellowship. His philosophical and literary works are celebrated for their clarity, insight, and timeless relevance.

Perfect For:

• Political Thinkers: Those interested in understanding the political transformations and historical moments that shaped the world and India.
• Literary Enthusiasts: Readers of Bengali literature who appreciate thoughtful essays on politics, culture, and philosophy.
• History Buffs: Those looking to dive deeper into the political changes in the 20th century, especially in the Indian subcontinent and Eastern Europe