Radha by Tarashankar Bandyopadhyay [Hardcover]

The novel Radha is set against the backdrop of 18th-century Rarh Bengal, specifically in Ilambazar, Birbhum. The 18th century was a significant time for Bengal, as in just a few years, the people of Bengal witnessed several major events: the rule of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah of Bengal under the Mughal Empire, the fertile land of Bengal, conspiracies over the throne of Bengal, the Battle of Plassey, British rule, and the invasions of the Marathas (Bargis). These events impacted every aspect of human life, including religion.

During this tumultuous period, both Vaishnavism and Shakta traditions reached a state of extreme degeneration. The Vaishnavism preached by Jayadeva found itself in a constant struggle, at times coexisting with other beliefs, at times clashing with them. This period saw Vaishnavism degenerating, with the blending of sacred and profane love into a distorted form. Within temples and hermitages, under the guise of worship, practices took on a corrupt form. Amid this, Mahant Madhabananda, separating Krishna worship from the Radha doctrine, offered a new spiritual path. He was considered the Krishna of the Kali Yuga, and under the influence of Mother Krishnadasi, the temple maid Mohini began worshipping him. However, Madhabananda never accepted her love. Yet, on multiple occasions, he took up arms to protect Mohini. Severely injured during one such conflict, Madhabananda was nursed back to health by Mohini, through whose care he saw the pure essence of Radha and ultimately surrendered to her devotion.

Through this, Tarashankar Bandopadhyay seeks to reveal the true nature of extramarital love amid the degeneration of Vaishnavism. He shows that this degradation is a reflection of the societal structure, beyond the control of individuals or religion. The decay has its beginning, as well as its inevitable end. The author expresses neither anger nor hatred toward this degenerated society but rather feels compassion. Tarashankar Bandopadhyay, through his exceptional imagination, consistently depicted the harsh realities of society in his novels.