Shunya Pather Mallika by Smaranjit Chakraborty [Hardcover]

The flow of the Tree of Life is a remarkable story. On the long journey of time, who connects with whom, and how love returns to us, is something no one can predict. This story, divided into four parts, spans over a period of twenty-five years. In its flow, we meet Hawadaduk, we see the blind Virendra consumed by the greed for all-encompassing power. We also encounter Jagannath, a leader of local village politics. And then, a murder changes the course and direction of many lives! Through this thread, we are introduced to a poor young poet. We witness the love story and its consequences between Urja and Raju. In this flow, we get to know Lalu and Bindi, two workers, and also why Jini, a university student, loves the poet. We meet the mysterious character, Jhirikumar. Who is Jhirikumar? Is he the source of joy or the darkness of death? Along with them, the story brings forth various other characters like Setuda, Guran, Leela, Madhu, Bachchu, Anjana, Nidhi, and many more, each playing a role in the unfolding narrative. Two events from long ago influence time and the lives of many people. These people, caught between light and shadow, wonder when the "mallika" (jasmine) of love will bloom on the empty paths of their lives. "Shunya Pather Mallika" is a tale of reaching light through darkness. It is a journey from hatred to love, a story that speaks of keeping the light alive in the darkness of the mind. It tells of the salvation found in love.