An Anthology of Contemporary Bengali Plays by Bratya Basu

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This remarkable anthology of six selected plays, penned between 2000 and 2020 by the acclaimed author Bratya Basu, recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award 2021, stands as a pioneering exploration of the fusion of avant-garde, pop, and traditional cultures with contemporary dramatic themes. The six freshly translated plays, each offering a distinctively Bengali and Indian perspective, delve into the intricate interplay of past and present, global and local, and magical and real within a postmodern pastiche of India today. The collection is thoughtfully organized into three thematic sections:

"Poignant Challenges, Soulful Remorse" examines the power dynamics in Indian politics, religion, and family, shedding light on the complexities and contradictions that shape these realms.

" '(In)visible Boundaries,(Un)democratic Choices" delves into the intricate relationship between democracy, nation-building, and the role of women in the intergenerational political struggle. It explores the challenges and opportunities that arise as societies navigate the complexities of modernity and diversity.

"Intimately Political, Politically Intimate" navigates the complex terrain of queer identity, mental health, and the fabulation of modern Bengali life in a 21st-century India that straddles progressive politics, the aftermath of section 377, and the resurgence of Hindu nationalisms.

Through these captivating plays, Bratya Basu invites audiences to engage with profound questions about identity, society, and the human condition, offering a thought-provoking and immersive theatrical experience. This anthology serves as a testament to the rich and diverse theatrical landscape of Bengal and India, showcasing the power of storytelling to inspire, challenge, and transform.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 240 x 164 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350289437