Dhanpatir Singhal Jatra by Ram Kumar Mukhopadhyay [Hardcover]

Efforts to decolonize regional literature are being made worldwide. In Bengali literature, Ramkumar Mukhopadhyay has crafted a unique linguistic style in this book, moving away from the shadows of colonial influence—partly by creating his own poetic syntax, and partly by reviving pre-colonial Bengali vocabulary and various narrative traditions or techniques. This effort is evident not only in the writing style but also in the choice of subject matter, as the author draws inspiration from the tradition of Mangalkavya. However, to label it as merely inspired by Mangalkavya would be incorrect, as each sentence showcases the author’s individuality and sharp creativity.

I consider Dhanapati’s Singhala Journey (Dhanapater Singhaljatra) to be one of the most significant novels in Bengali literature.