Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay (1894-1950) was one of the greatest Bengali writers. His best known work is the autobiographical novel Pather Panchali, now published in Penguin Modern Classics in a new translation. This novel and its sequel, Aparajito, have been translated into several languages and also inspired Satyajit Ray's iconic and award-winning cinematic trilogy. Badyopadhyay was posthumously awarded the Rabindra Puruskar in 1951, the most prestigious literary award in West Bengal, for his novel Ichamati.
Bhaskar Chattopadhyay is an author and translator. His novels include Patang and his translations include 14 Stories That Inspired Satyajit Ray.
Translated from the Bengali by Bhaskar Chattopadhyay
From one of the greatest Bengali novelists of all time
Aranyak, written in 1939, is a famous Bengali novel by Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay based on his long and arduous years in northern Bihar. There he came into contact with a part of the world that, even now, remains unknown to most of us. 'Aranyak' literally means 'Of the Forest'.
This novel explores the simple and heart-warming story of a man who gets a job as an estate manager in Bihar, and slowly falls in love with the beautiful and tranquil forest around him. The dichotomy of urban and rural life comes alive, reflecting the great love that human beings and nature can share, one that Bandyopadhyay experienced in his heart. Written by one of the greatest Bengali authors, this haunting novel is rooted in guilt and sadness but also tremendous beauty.
