Churi by Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay [Hardcover]

When did the story of humanity begin? Right at the start of this novel, the mature, inquisitive, and profound storyteller Shirishendu Mukhopadhyay seeks an answer to this question. According to him, it all began in ancient times—on the day humans and humankind were born, driven by greed, lust, fear, wonder, hunger, and ego. From that day, the story of humanity commenced. Thus, nearly all human stories are essentially one and authentic, primal and wild; only their attire has changed.

In this unique novel, aptly titled "Churi" (Theft), Shirishendu Mukhopadhyay skillfully establishes this theory. However, it is clear that his main intention is not merely to narrate the story of a servant named Yadu who engages in monetary theft. Instead, he intricately weaves together various types of theft experienced by people of different ages and social strata throughout society. Some have stolen trust, others conscience; some have taken away chastity, while for others, the center of theft is the heart of a young girl.

"Churi" is a vibrant, dynamic, and extraordinary novel.