Chaprash by Buddhadeb Guha [Hardcover]

The term "chaprashi" refers to someone who carries the title of a messenger or servant. In the context of this novel, Buddha Dev Guha introduces a new kind of chaprashi, someone who carries the message or service of God. We often see chaprashis adorned with brass tags serving the governor, the judge, or the master. But in this novel, Guha speaks of many unknown chaprashis—people who serve only the will of God. What does this service mean? The narrative of this service is woven throughout the pages of this novel.

When this novel was being serialized, many intellectuals and fundamentalists expressed their anger, even threatening to strike. Yet, in this novel, topics like religion, God, and many others are illuminated with new significance. It serves as a guide to another kind of light. The theme of Chaporash is serious, at times delicate, and at other moments, it ventures into dangerous debates. Yet, through a touching and compelling story, the writer has made this narrative timeless.

The character named Charan steps out from the imagined world of the story and shakes up our conventional beliefs. Through his life, he teaches that faith in God is not foolishness, and belief in religion is not a heinous crime. Charan's profound realization is this: “Jishnu Maharaj once spoke of the chaprashi. Charan remembers: Only a chaprashi knows the joy of carrying the burden. That chaprashi may be serving God, a woman, or a deep belief.”

The writer, fearless and straightforward, stands tall in front of both those who reject God and religion and those who follow blindly. He presents the truth of life with clarity. For those who only know Buddha Dev Guha as the author of works on love and forests, Chaporash will remain a bearer of ultimate surprise. This grand and profound novel is a notable addition to Bengali fiction.