Upanyas Samagra 8 by Bimal Kar [Hardcover]

Bimal Kar, a distinguished novelist, has always captivated literary readers with the unique beauty of his writing. His works explore the depth of life’s complexities. In his novel "Oparahu", four characters express their thoughts in their own voices — a mother, son, daughter, and an elderly person. The mother, in her forties, faces a personal crisis that eventually becomes a crisis for others as well. Kar’s skill in psychoanalysis is remarkable. His famous work "Balika Bodhu", which he himself considered a long story rather than a novel, has been elevated to a classic, widely admired by readers today. Though it portrays a sweet childhood romance, the philosophical depth of the story gives it a timeless quality.

The novel "Ekda Kuashay" is a full-fledged mystery novel, but what makes it special is the absence of a detective character. In "Aprabash", the story of Lalu, who is suddenly uprooted from the land he is emotionally tied to, creates a sense of distress. "Ratnanibase Tin Atithi" is a thriller in terms of its characters but can be considered a human mystery story. "Dinant" plays with the theme of magical connections, depicting the lives of the people from the Mallick family, who live in a decaying aristocratic mansion known as Golapbagan. Through this story, Bimal Kar paints a poignant portrait of a dying aristocratic household that touches the reader's heart with a subtle sense of longing.

"Jonaik Shaitan-er Patro-Guchchha" is a thrilling mystery in which the protagonist is a psychological patient himself. Through this story, Kar delves into the multi-layered mysteries of life, human sins, guilt, and the complex subconscious mind. "Chandragirir Rajkahini", though a royal tale, takes on a unique dimension as the plot focuses on who will win the throne of Chandragiri, but Kar’s humanistic touch brings an added grace to the narrative. In "Sorsi", the widow Sorsi, in her mid-forties, embarks on a journey of self-discovery when a man enters her life. This introspective quest towards understanding her existence culminates in a magical world created by Kar, blending a sense of existential crisis with hope.

Bimal Kar, whose favorite subject was psychology, explores the complexities of the human psyche in his writing. This eighth volume of "Upanyas Samagra", containing nine unique novels, is a priceless collection for book lovers.