Upanyas Samagra 1 by Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay [Hardcover]

A prominent contemporary critic aptly writes: “The river has no pretense—similarly, Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay’s literary essence is devoid of any affectation. A vivid childhood memory, a painful crisis of recognition, and a calm, detached observation—above all, a profound belief in goodness has shaped his authorial life.” Among the rare writers in Bengali literature, Shirshendu's primary strength lies in this sense of faith. Amid all of life’s uncertainties, he courageously speaks of “an unwavering transcendence.” Even while standing amidst endless aimlessness, he is bold, embodying a unique creator.

In any of Shirshendu's stories, despite all the surrounding adversity, the “human concern for humanity remains unyielding.” At this moment of life’s transition through a troubled time, he still seeks the sacred essence of humanity with deep affection. He believes there is a refuge somewhere, a place to return to. Embedded in this “loving yet detached” author’s entire creation is “a powerful yearning for an inexpressible love.” In his own words, “I have tried in various ways to express this yearning in my writing. Yet, I feel that due to the inadequacy of my expression, perhaps I still haven’t managed to convey the love that resides within me… Does this world, this Kolkata, this country understand my unspoken love? Can everything be expressed through language?”

Despite the author's own doubts, his characters carry “the wave of that love.” Shirshendu's self-absorbed yet detached style and perspective add a new dimension to Bengali literature. An initiative has been taken to publish all of his novels in individual volumes. The first volume features eight memorable novels: "Ghunpoka," "Parapar," "Ujaan," "Rongin Sanko," "Fera," "Brishti Ghraan," "Basstop-e Keu Nei," and "Din Jay."