Kharap Chele

Author: Bani Basu

Book Details:

• Genre: Novel (Upanyas)
• Format: Hardcover
• ISBN: 9788177562026
• Weight: 225 grams

Synopsis:

• Jina, a free-spirited and hopeful woman, steps into a new life after marrying Nikhil, a high-ranking officer.
• As a boudi (daughter-in-law) in Kalyan Babu’s household, she finds herself struggling with a life devoid of emotional fulfillment.
• Nikhil’s personality and priorities seem vastly different from hers, leaving Jina feeling isolated.
• Seeking purpose, she joins her college friend Mukut and Mukut’s husband, Ritwik, in social work—educating the children of red-light area workers.
• She receives support from her father-in-law and sister-in-law, Mallika, as she dedicates herself to uplifting these marginalized women and children.
• Amidst this, Jina finds solace in Kutus, a little boy born to a sex worker, bringing joy to her otherwise barren marriage.
• However, her world shatters when she discovers a shocking truth—her husband, Nikhil, is leading a double life as Fatik Babu, a regular client at the very brothels she has been trying to reform.
• This betrayal turns her life into a nightmare, forcing her to confront harsh realities and question her path forward.
• Kharap Chele is a bold and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into human complexities, social taboos, and personal dilemmas.

About the Author:

• Name: Bani Basu
• Born: 26th Falgun, 1346 (Bengali Calendar)
• Education:
  • Studied at Lady Brabourne College and Scottish Church College.
  • Completed M.A. in English Literature from University of Calcutta (1962).
• Career: Former professor at Howrah Bijoy Krishna Girls' College.
• Writing Journey:
  • Engaged in essays, short stories, poetry, and translation since student life.
  • Notable translations include works of Sri Aurobindo, Somerset Maugham, and D.H. Lawrence.
  • Her first novel Janmabhumi Matribhoomi was published in Sharadiya Anandalok in 1987