Upanyas Samagra 7 by Bimal Kar [Hardcover]

In this volume of Upanyas Samagra, the selected nine novels span a wide range of the author's works, starting from his introductory writings to those of later periods. In each novel, the delicate tensions of human relationships are explored. With great care, the author slowly unveils the varied facets of these relationships, highlighting the complex and nuanced connections between individuals.

The first novel, Banbhumi (The Forest Land), set in the remote station of Barabua on a B.N. Railway branch line, surrounded by the wilderness, marks the beginning of the author's literary career. In the backdrop of this isolated setting, the novel delves into how a person is not just alienated in foreign lands, but can also feel estranged in their own home. Similarly, in Porobash (Exile), the protagonist, Promol, unknowingly occupies the space left behind by Dinesh, raising the question of whether he is gradually entering another person’s identity.

In Nirbhar (Dependence), the relationship between Vishnu and Pramila reaches a breaking point, leading them to face an inevitable question—who can Vishnu rely on? Atohopor (And Then) chronicles the story of Shushital and Komala, whose lives are filled with the upheavals of love and loss.

Bedonaporbo (The Phase of Pain) is the story of Shachinmama, whose death and almost unknown existence leave a subtle yet profound impact. His loneliness, pain, and the strange culmination of his life bring his niece, Bosudha, face to face with the deepest truths of life. This is when we realize our own hidden ailments—both physical and mental—are present around us.

In Tathapi (Nevertheless), the possibility of forgiveness and empathy offers hope that relationships can be enriched through mutual understanding. Ajnyatabash (The Unknown Exile) tells the story of an intense personal crisis centered around identity, which gradually expands to touch upon deeper themes.

In Mrityu O Jibito (Dead and Alive), Abir realizes that the resemblance in his face to Paramar’s is slowly forming an alternate personality for him, with his own identity being overshadowed by another's mask. Ubhoypokkho (Both Sides) explores the complexities of a tasteless, faded marital life—one that the couple longed to escape from. However, they couldn't. What secret weakness held this seemingly bloodless marriage together?

Bimal Kar, a distinctive and independent writer, has long cultivated his own unique space in literature, a space where he remains unparalleled. In the novels compiled in this volume, readers will experience the enchanting taste of this private realm that he has meticulously crafted over time.