Sadher Mayna by Sanjib Chattopadhyay [Hardcover]

On one side stands Parameshwar, on the other, Protima, and at the center is Bankim. These three characters repeatedly appear in Sanjib Chattopadhyay's writing. Parameshwar, the authoritative father-in-law, finds a worthy opponent in his daughter-in-law Protima, the colonel's daughter, and Bankim’s wife, who is constantly at loggerheads with her clerk husband, Bankim, much like a cup and saucer clattering together. For years, these characters have provided fresh, amusing ingredients for various settings and scenarios.
The same familiar trio of characters forms the core of Sadher Moyna. However, this story unfolds in a completely different atmosphere and tone—one of separation, death, and heartbreak. Parameshwar passes away first, followed by Protima, leaving the bewildered Bankim utterly alone. The novel narrates, in intricate detail, how this unfolds.
As Dadhathakur once said, “When the jester weeps, God Himself weeps alongside him.” Sanjib Chattopadhyay's novel, written with pens dipped in tears, serves as a poignant and colorful example of this sentiment. It is powerfully moving and heartbreakingly emotional.