Byomkesh Bakshi | Stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay | Book Review | English Translation by Monimala Dhar

“Byomkesh Bakshi” is a collection of seven detective stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay, translated into English by Monimala Dhar. These classic Indian mystery stories revolve around the fictional character Byomkesh Bakshi, a detective who solves complex cases with his sharp intellect and analytical skills. So, read the book summary, book release date, genre, reading age, book quotes, author introduction, and book review of “Byomkesh Bakshi” by Saradindu Bandopadhyay in this post below.

 

Follow the trail of clues with Byomkesh Bakshi and experience the thrill of solving crimes in old-world India in #ByomkeshBakshi Stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay #BookReview #BookQuotes on #NjkinnysBlog #NjkinnyRecommends #Mystery… Share on X

About Byomkesh Bakshi Stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay:

No. of Pages: 222

Book Release Date: 2013

Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Short Story Collection, Indian Fiction, Detective Fiction, Crime Fiction, Indian Author, Classic

Reading Age: 12 years and above

Buy From: AMAZON

 

Byomkesh Bakshi Stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay Book Summary:

“Byomkesh Bakshi” is a collection of detective stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay, translated into English by Monimala Dhar. This book contains seen short mysteries. The stories revolve around the fictional character Byomkesh Bakshi, a detective who solves complex cases with his sharp intellect and analytical skills. Ranging from mind boggling burglaries to impossible looking murders, this collection is an excellent example of the detective genre.

 

Experience crimes that have stood the test of time...Are you ready to have your mind blown? Read #ByomkeshBakshi Stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay #BookReview #BookQuotes on #NjkinnysBlog #NjkinnyRecommends #Mystery #Classics Share on X

Byomkesh Bakshi Stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay Book Review:

 

Byomkesh Bakshi is an Indian-Bengali fictional detective created by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay. Referring to himself as a “truth-seeker” or Satyanweshi in the stories, Bakshi is known for his proficiency with observation, logical reasoning, and forensic science which he uses to solve complicated cases, usually murders, occurring in Calcutta. Also one of the most popular sleuths of Bengali literature, he appears in 32 short mystery stories from 1932 to 1970. Then his camaraderie with his friend Ajith is similar to what Sherlock Holmes shares with his friend Dr. Watson. Byomkesh and Ajith solve cases together just like Holmes and Watson too.

 

Things I liked:

Byomkesh Bakshi Stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay is an English translation of the stories written originally in Bengali. Translated by Monimala Dhar, the collection is an excellent example of the detective genre, and Bandopadhyay’s writing style is engaging and entertaining.

For readers like me who are unfamiliar with the Bengali language, this English translation of these classic Indian mind blowing mysteries featuring the iconic Bengali Detective Byomkesh Bakshi are a treat to read.

The observations of the society, culture, and human behaviour are still true even after  turn of a new century. Like in this below quote where people of the old days and now of the modern era still share this bad habit. 

The people of this country have a bad habit of not even informing the police about small crimes like theft — better to have peace than prosperity — that is their philosophy.”

'The people of this country have a bad habit of not even informing the police about small crimes like theft — better to have peace than prosperity — that is their philosophy.'- #BookQuote #ByomkeshBakshi Stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay… Share on X



With crimes that have stood the test of time and with mysteries that are as staggering today as they were half a century ago when they were written is truly a showcase of the creative genius of the author.

I absolutely loved each mystery story but “The Deadly Diamond”, “The Phantom Client”, “Quicksand”,and “The Man in a Red Coat” are my favourites.

This quote so beautifully delves into the human psyche and plays a role in solving a crime that seemed almost perfect in its execution!

The more intelligent they are, the greater is their pride. So sometimes their intelligence goes to waste.”

'The more intelligent they are, the greater is their pride. So sometimes their intelligence goes to waste.'- #BookQuote #ByomkeshBakshi Stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay #BookReview on #NjkinnysBlog #NjkinnyRecommends #Mystery #Classics Share on X

Things that could be better:

However, the translation by Monimala Dhar leaves something to be desired. While the translation is technically accurate, it often lacks the nuance and flavor of the original Bengali text. The language can feel stiff and awkward at times, which detracts from the overall reading experience.

Additionally, there are some inconsistencies in the translation. For example, certain Bengali terms are translated differently throughout the book, which can be confusing for readers unfamiliar with the language. The lack of footnotes or explanations for cultural references can also be a hindrance for readers who are not familiar with the cultural context in which the stories are set.

 

Another quote that shows that even though times have changed yet the disparity between the rich and the poor is still a demon we are yet to conquer.

A doctor is called for in case of the rich even to treat a small pimple but a poor dies unattended even if he is seriously ill.”

'A doctor is called for in case of the rich even to treat a small pimple but a poor dies unattended even if he is seriously ill.'- #BookQuote #ByomkeshBakshi Stories by Saradindu Bandopadhyay #BookReview on #NjkinnysBlog #NjkinnyRecommends… Share on X

Conclusion:

Despite these shortcomings, the collection is still a worthwhile read. The stories themselves are engaging and well-crafted, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers on their toes. Byomkesh Bakshi is a fascinating character, and Bandopadhyay’s writing does an excellent job of showcasing his talents as a detective.

In conclusion, while the translation by Monimala Dhar could be improved in certain areas, “Byomkesh Bakshi” is still a fantastic collection of detective stories that is definitely worth reading for fans of the genre.

So, 4 out of 5 stars to this classic Indian mystery book that is a must read for all crime-mystery-thriller fans and for readers wanting a vivid picture of a India especially Calcutta pre and post Independence. I am a huge fan of Byomkesh Bakshi who is also called “Indian Sherlock Holmes” and thoroughly enjoyed this travel in time to meet my favourite Detective.

Go grab this book and meet one of the most beloved book characters of all time!

 

Buy From:

AMAZON

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