Udhotokani Chittani

• Author: Sutapa Basu
• Genre: Upanyas (Novel)
• Publisher: Ananda Publishers
• Format: Hardcover
• ISBN: 9789354252884
• Pages: 208
• Weight: 434 grams

Synopsis:

• Set in Tibet from 1932 to 1946, a time when Buddhist monasteries held supreme power over the land, surpassing the ruling monarchy.
• The Chinese army defies a previous truce, aiming to seize control of Buddhist monasteries.
• Common people, oppressed by royal exploitation, foreign invasions, and religious tyranny, rise in rebellion.
• A princess, lost in luxury, seeks out a humble blacksmith, Jinpa, seducing him into creating secret weapons disguised as ornaments.
• Jinpa finds himself entangled in the political struggles of the royal court, the power plays of Buddhist monks, and the military force of the Chinese troops.
• The novel delves into power struggles between two influential monks, Yeshe and Lobsang, the queen Samten, Jinpa’s wife Pema, and a young child Dachen, who is set to inherit the monastery’s leadership.
• Explores the interplay of external conflicts and internal battles within a setting rich in Buddhist culture and Tibetan heritage.
• A gripping story that blends spirituality, power, and human resilience.

About the Author:

• A rationalist, protester, emotional and empathetic thinker, whose artistic journey is deeply influenced by these traits.
• Interests include religion, politics, self-interest, humanitarianism, and psychology, shaping her literary voice.
• Began writing poetry and stories in both Bengali and English during school.
• Had a corporate career, studying science, IT, business management, and working abroad.
• Published in various newspapers and magazines, both in India and overseas.
• Also passionate about photography and painting.
• Released a short story collection three years ago