Tracing the Imprints of Words

Bengal, a land steeped in culture and literature, has nurtured generations of readers, and I, as a proud Bengali, am no exception. From the early days of my childhood, the world of books and magazines has been a constant companion, shaping my imagination, emotions, and perspective. This blog takes you through the phases of my reading journey, from childhood tales to the rich tapestry of Bengali literature and beyond. I am indebted to the rich literary heritage of Bengal that has nurtured my reading journey. My gratitude extends to the authors, illustrators, and creators whose works have been my companions throughout the years. My journey as a reader is a tribute to their collective creativity and dedication to the world of literature.

Nurturing the Seed of Curiosity in my Childhood Days

Growing up in Bengal meant being surrounded by stories that ignited my curiosity. My earliest literary companions were the enchanting illustrated versions of “Chotoder Ramayan” and “Chotoder Mahabharat.” These books vividly portrayed the tales of epic heroes and their struggles, along with the captivating sketches that both fascinated and sometimes frightened me. The story of Jatayu’s valiant attempt to save Mata Sita and other poignant events left an indelible mark on my young heart. Before embarking on my formal education journey, there was a rite of passage – “Adorsho Lipi” by Ishwar Chandra Bidya Sagar. This foundational experience prepared me for the stories that awaited in school.

Unveiling Magical Worlds at School Years

As I entered the world of formal education, my reading repertoire expanded. “Arabya Rajanir Golpo” transported me to the land of fantasy, where princes and princesses graced the pages. Here, I encountered timeless tales like “Aladdin” and “AliBaba Callish chor,” igniting my imagination further. “Eshoper Golpo” not only entertained but also imparted valuable life lessons through its stories. Each tale held a moral thread that weaved its way into my understanding of right and wrong. The introduction of Upendra Kishor Ray and Sukumar Ray into my life during the 3rd and 4th grades was a literary delight. Sukumar Ray’s rhythmic rhymes in “Abol Tabol” and “Ha Ja Ba Ra La” added a dose of humor to my days, becoming my mood boosters and exemplifying the brilliance of Bengali nonsense literature.

Teenage Chronicles (Immersing in Zafar Iqbal’s World and Beyond)

The teenage years were marked by my deep immersion into the world of Zafar Iqbal’s teen books. “Nut Boltu” brought laughter with its portrayal of two school friends’ humorous scientific experiments. The themes explored in books like “Rasha,” “Ami Topu,” and “Kajoler Dinratri” delved into the complexities of adolescence, family dynamics, and personal growth. These stories resonated with the challenges and discoveries of my own teenage journey. My literary explorations weren’t confined solely to the works of Zafar Iqbal. In the midst of these teen narratives, I stumbled upon Satyajit Ray’s detective series, “Feluda.” These tales of suspense and intrigue offered a thrilling departure from the emotional landscapes I had been navigating. The nerve-hitting suspense and clever mysteries enlivened my detective mind, providing a welcome contrast to the emotional depths I had been exploring.

Literature’s Evolution (Embracing Classic Bengali Writers)

The high school years led me to embrace the classics of Bengali literature. Tagore’s masterpieces opened my eyes to the depth and diversity of his work, reaffirming his status as the literary god of Bengal. From poems to novels, Tagore’s creations spanned all genres, leaving an indelible impact on my appreciation for literature’s breadth. The allure of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee and Madhusudan Dutta’s writings captivated me as well. “KamalaKanter Daptar” showcased Kamalakanta’s rebellious voice, challenging societal norms through his opium-induced musings. Madhusudan Dutta’s perspective-shift in “Meghnadh Bodh Kabbo” offered a fresh angle on the Ramayana narrative.

A Grown Reader’s Quest Exploring New Horizons

As I transitioned into adulthood, my literary pursuits expanded beyond Bengali literature. Exploring works from different cultures and contemporary writers offered a fresh perspective. While some books resonated deeply, others exposed the intricacies of human nature, prompting me to ponder the intricacies of life.

A Lifelong Love Affair with Reading

Today, I stand as a polygamist reader, devoted to the pages that have shaped my thoughts, feelings, and outlook. My journey as a reader continues, with each book offering a new chapter of growth and understanding. From childhood curiosity to teenage explorations and adult contemplations, reading remains an essential part of who I am, propelling me forward on an ever-evolving literary odyssey. As I embrace the written word, I eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead.