Buddhadeb Guhar Chhoto Galpa 1 by Buddhadeb Guha [Hardcover]

The phrase “Buddhadeb Guha’s short stories” carries an irresistible magnetism—an enchanting allure that tempts readers of all ages. This is because, for Buddhadeb Guha, a short story is never just a piece of writing devoid of a compelling narrative. He firmly believes—and has explicitly stated—that no story or novel is merely an account of a few individuals. The characters in a story represent many more; through their words and actions, an honest writer does not just narrate their tale but also captures the essence of an entire era, a generation, and the surrounding socio-cultural landscape.

Guha also recognizes that human life is filled with fleeting events—much like shifting shorelines—constantly appearing and disappearing. Literature transforms these ephemeral moments into something everlasting, be it joy, sorrow, or deep introspection. This belief is intricately woven into his writing, making each of his stories and novels rich with multiple layers of meaning and significance.

This collection brings together a set of recent short stories—more than two dozen in total—each varying in length, flavor, and emotional depth. Even widely cherished humorous tales like Bodedada and Gonsaghor (Pvt.) Limited find a place here. However, whether it is a humorous story, a romantic one, or a poignant portrayal of life’s joys, sorrows, and fleeting realizations, the underlying intent of a Buddhadeb Guha story is never ambiguous.

Having had the opportunity to closely observe the upper class and deeply understand the middle class from within, Guha masterfully exposes the hollowness and contradictions within both. His stories repeatedly highlight the blind pursuit of status in the urban rat race, the artificial obsession with Westernization, fractured relationships, shifting values, and the ceaseless struggle between appearance and reality. Like a truly perceptive writer, he seeks to warn us of these societal pitfalls—wrapping his cautionary messages in various engaging forms.