Novels of Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay reveal the rural face of Bengal as well deep interpretation of human life. He was as popular as a novelist as Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay. His love for solitude is clearly revealed in his novels. Simple things like creepers, grass, insects and spiders have a place in his novels. His novels also show deep understanding of nature. He has also edited several magazines. This includes Chitralekha and Dipak. He was posthumously awarded the `Rabindra Prize` (1951) for `Ichhamati`.
The novel Ichhamati reflects on the rural life on the banks of river Ichhamati in undivided southern Bengal. The life of indigo planters and plantation life, rural communities and their role in the society have been vividly described. Relationships have also been portrayed delicately. Nature has been described minutely. However the flora and fauna on the banks of Ichhamati has been portrayed beautifully. The dialogues instigate spiritual thought, advaita vedanta especially. The characters show the hypocrisy of the Brahmanical order that was prevalent then. Then a strict caste system was maintained.
With Pather Panchalli, Bibhutibhusan Bandopadhyay became a masterpiece in Bengali literature. His other writings include Aparajito, Meghamallar, Chander Pahad, Yatrabadal, Ichhamati, Heera Manik Jale, Drishti Pradeep, Mouriphool, Kinnardal, Devayan, Bipiner Sangsar, Asani Sangke
t and Aranyak
The novel Pather Panchali and its sequel Aparajito are based on his personal life. All his early writings draw the tragic theme of poverty, wife`s death and loneliness of his own life.
`Aranyak` was based on his stay in northern Bihar, where he was connected to a world that was unknown to many. This word literally means `Of the Forest`. It explores the journey of the protagonist Satyacharan. It shows both the urban and the jungle lives. The novel reflects great love of human and nature. It is a classic in Bengali literature.
Chander Pahar records the adventures of a Bengali boy who lives in the forests of Africa. This novel is one of the most important adventure novels in Bengali. The backdrop is early 20th century. It presents the dangerous scenario before the World War I and the aspirations of the youngsters for a peaceful world. It signifies the adventure of a dream of a juvenile mind.
