Sunil Gangopadhyaer Upanyas : Prasanga Itihas by Fazlur Rahman [Hardcover]

In Bengali literature, Sunil Gangopadhyay (1934–2012) stands as a pioneering figure in the realm of historically-rooted novels. Themes such as the Partition of India, the refugee crisis, communal riots, the impact of World War II, famine, the India-Pakistan wars and political hostilities, and the Liberation War of Bangladesh in 1971 profoundly stirred Sunil’s consciousness. He himself was a victim of Partition’s brutal dislocation, deeply affected by the pain of displacement. Born and raised in an obscure village in British-ruled East Bengal, he witnessed firsthand the harsh socio-economic and political realities that left a lasting impression on him throughout his life. These experiences sowed within him a deep sense of secularism, a profound humanism, and a nostalgic attachment to his birthplace. Through his novels, Sunil sought to present the actions and initiatives of historically significant figures to readers in a way that would inspire and enrich their sense of moral awareness and contribute to a more refined understanding of human life. In fact, his remarkable expression of humanistic insight through the medium of historical fiction is what prompted the creation of the present research work, titled “Sunil Gangopadhyay’s Novels: Contextualizing History.” This study—dedicated to examining history as portrayed in Sunil’s fiction—rightfully holds the distinction of being a pioneering contribution to the field.