Kolkata's Literary Community Grieves the Loss of Iconic Author Shankar
The vibrant Boipara district of Kolkata was enveloped in sorrow on Friday as it mourned the passing of Shankar, one of Bengali literature's most beloved and bestselling authors. While his absence leaves a profound void that many fear will be challenging to fill, there is a collective hope that his literary legacy will endure and captivate readers for generations to come.
Publishers and Booksellers Reflect on an Irreplaceable Loss
Across the city, publishers and booksellers expressed deep sadness, noting that Shankar's works consistently ranked as the most sought-after among contemporary Bengali authors. Sudipta Dey, owner of Dey's Publishing House, emphasized the unparalleled popularity of his novels. "Among his extensive body of work, 'Chowringhee' stands out as the top seller, closely followed by 'Jana Aranya', 'Gharer Moddhe Ghar', and 'Ekdin Hathat'. His autobiographical memoir, 'Eka Eka Ekashi', which earned him the prestigious Sahitya Akademi award, continues to be in tremendous demand," Dey shared.
He fondly recalled last year's book fair, where Shankar, despite health challenges, spent hours at the Dey's stall, signing copies for an endless stream of avid readers. "For us, it is akin to losing a guardian and a mentor who shaped our literary landscape," Dey added emotionally.
Personal Tributes and Literary Impact
Noor Islam, proprietor of Mitra & Ghosh, echoed these sentiments, describing the loss as monumental for Bengali literature. "We literally grew up immersed in his narratives. My journey began with 'Ek Bag Shankar', then 'Tanaya', and the unforgettable 'Chowringhee'. His departure creates a chasm that feels insurmountable," Islam remarked.
Rupa Mazumdar, director of Deb Sahitya Kutir, offered a poignant perspective on Shankar's influence. She revealed that after Rabindranath Tagore's 'Sesher Kobita' introduced her to romance, it was Shankar who masterfully depicted love and human connections. "At just six or seven years old, I read 'Chowringhee' and developed a deep affection for the character Sata Bose. Shankar possessed a unique ability to make us perceive our familiar city through an entirely new lens, while his character development offered insightful glimpses into the corporate world's complexities," Mazumdar explained.
Enduring Popularity and Unwavering Dedication
The day of Shankar's passing saw a surge in sales of his books, as noted by Anindya Das of Roy Book Stall on Bankim Chatterjee Street. "My very first customer this morning purchased several of Shankar's titles, and throughout the day, we sold numerous copies, reflecting his enduring appeal," Das observed.
Tridib Chatterjee, general secretary of the Publishers and Booksellers Guild, highlighted Shankar's unwavering commitment to his readers. "Even when confined to a wheelchair, he made it a priority to visit the book fair annually. He would sit patiently at Dey's stall, signing book after book, demonstrating an accountability that remained steadfast despite changing circumstances," Chatterjee recounted.
Memories of Humility and Literary Brilliance
Author Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay shared personal anecdotes that illuminated Shankar's character. "My memories are not of dramatic events but of subtle incidents that reveal his essence: a man of profound humility and simplicity. The news is so shocking that I struggle to articulate my thoughts. We witnessed multiple facets of Shankar—his warmth, extraordinarily humble demeanor, and, undeniably, the formidable power of his pen. Among his works, 'Nibedita Research Laboratory' holds a special place as my favorite," Mukhopadhyay expressed.
As Kolkata's literary community comes to terms with this significant loss, the consensus is clear: Shankar's contributions have left an indelible mark on Bengali literature, ensuring his stories will continue to resonate with readers far and wide.
