Step into a world where history and emotion collide at the Great Eastern Hotel, Calcutta's most luxurious destination during a time of turmoil. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of August 1941, just as the city mourns the death of the revered Rabindranath Tagore, this novel brings to life a vibrant tapestry of characters caught in the throes of a war that looms ever closer.
Meet an eclectic cast, including:
- Nirupama, a passionate history student and dedicated Communist Party volunteer
- Imogen, a young Englishwoman navigating her place within the Raj
- Kedar, a hopeful artist inspired by the works of Cezanne
- Gopal, a street-smart pickpocket drawn into a perilous underworld
As their stories unfold, they intersect with a diverse array of hotel guests, from an American soldier serenading the nightclub with jazz melodies to a brilliant French chef crafting culinary delights. The hotel is also home to an heiress escaping the horrors of a war-torn Europe and military officers engaged in clandestine intelligence operations.
Ruchir Joshi's masterful storytelling in Great Eastern Hotel navigates this pivotal moment in history with intricacy and depth. It's not just a tale of survival; it raises profound questions about political commitment, nationalism, love, and the enduring power of art. By immersing readers in this rich historical narrative, the novel invites us to reflect on the present and the lessons that emerge from the past.
Discover a world bursting with life and complexity, where every character's journey intertwines in unexpected ways. Don't miss your opportunity to explore this thought-provoking and beautifully crafted novel.
