Ambubachi 2 by Madhumita Sengupta [Paperback]

The setting of the novel Ambubachi is the early 20th century. Unlike today’s concept of a ‘nuclear family,’ joint families were the foundation of Bengali households, deeply rooted in traditional values. The novel is set against the backdrop of the prevalent customs in Bengali joint families, the pros and cons of child marriage, and the socio-political consciousness of that era.

Ambubachi - Part 1 was published at the 2019 Kolkata Book Fair. Following family traditions, Kumud and Bimbabati were married at a very young age with the consent of both families. Being polar opposites in nature, they often quarreled and teased each other, yet their relationship blossomed into love. However, due to a significant family reason, they were separated for a few years.

In Ambubachi - Part 2, they meet again. Kumud is now sixteen, and Bimbabati is eleven. As they grow older, their adolescent love deepens. With two different perspectives on life, Kumud becomes a witness to the secret rendezvous of Binod and Kamini.

The novel also highlights the shameless oppression of the British Raj and the suffering of common people. It brings to life the struggles of Suhasini and the revolutionary-aspirant Suryashankar, the life transformations of the brilliant Subhash and the ever-sorrowful Prabha, the secret love story of Binod and Kamini, and the dilemmas of the idealistic and talented doctor Jyotiprakash.

Will Bimbabati be able to take charge amidst the immense hardships of family life? Despite countless challenges, love flows like an underground spring, carving its own path toward its destination. Through small joys and deep sorrows, the characters continue their journey through life.