Travails of Bangdu

Calling "Gatha Bhoganpuri" a novel, a long story, reportage, or an extensive narrative will certainly pose a problem for its reviewers. Though this is the author's first novel, its social and political layers attest to his personal and profound experiences. It is the story of a young administrative officer who, seeing the exploitation and oppression of laborers and Adivasis (tribal people) around him, makes a grave mistake by deciding to stand with them. The novel does not end with any climactic resolution, nor does it offer a sense of defeat or despair, but it leaves behind a deep understanding of the complexities of our time.

The greatest strength of this work is that it does not rely on sentimentality, pity, or compassion. It presents a realistic account in a very objective tone. The narrative can also be read as an officer’s report. "Gatha Bhognapuri" marks a significant development in Hindi novels.