Daha by Samaresh Basu [Hardcover]

Set in a rural Bengali backdrop, Daha tells the story of a young man named Kiran, whose life is shaped by his humble beginnings and the harsh economic conditions of his environment. The novel portrays his struggles with survival, his desires for a better life, and his growing disillusionment with the systems that seem to offer no escape from his grim realities.

The term "Daha" refers to a burning sensation, symbolizing the intense emotional and psychological pain the protagonist experiences as he faces the stark realities of his life. Kiran’s journey through poverty, familial pressures, and social limitations forms the central narrative of the novel. As he tries to navigate the oppressive systems of caste, class, and family expectations, Kiran’s aspirations for a better future clash with the harsh realities of his environment.

Kiran’s personal turmoil is central to the novel as he grapples with the tension between personal desires and societal constraints. The story is not just about an individual's struggle but also about how a person’s sense of self is often shaped and hindered by the broader forces of family and society. His attempts to break free from the cycle of poverty, caste discrimination, and social expectations only seem to entrench him deeper into a sense of hopelessness.