Classic Bengali Authors that you need to check out

Bengal has always been a booklover's paradise. Bengali authors have contributed tremendously to the field of literature. They have captured not only the hearts of Bengalis but reached a global audience with translations.

These authors have made a significant impact through their writings. They have a global readership due to their emotions and realistic portrayal of human beings. Their works are celebrated and studied. Here are some classic Bengali authors that are known for their notable work. 

1. Suchitra Bhattacharya

A renowned author with many awards portrays the middle class and women efficiently. Her writing shows contemporary life with sensitive narration that makes one dig deeper within themselves. The portrayal of characters in novels like Dahan (Crossfire), Kacher Dewal (The Wall of Glass) and Kacher Manush displays her understanding and intensity in giving a powerful voice to women. 

2. Rabindranath Tagore

Awarded the Nobel Prize in 1913 for Gitanjali, Rabindranath Tagore doesn't need any introduction. Known for writing a wide variety which includes short stories, drama, poetry, songs and much more, Tagore shows human struggles and emotions that transcend the era he lived in. His books like Gora, Ghore Baire, and Shesher Kobita are notable for their themes that are still relevant.

3. Satyajit Ray

Although known as an eminent filmmaker all over the world, Satyajit Ray was a prolific writer. He wrote several short stories and created two characters that have a massive fan following. He created Feluda, a detective and Professor Shonkhu, a scientist. He wrote several adventurous stories with Feluda and made a science fiction series with Professor Shonkhu. His contribution to culture has left an incredible mark all over the world.

4. Amitav Ghosh

Amitav Ghosh is known for his novels which have an amalgamation of complexities, environment, and identity that coincides with religion and magical realism. His books have been nominated for several international prizes. He won Padma Shri in 2007 for his contribution to literature. His work provides contemporary commentary while incorporating several disciplines like culture, climate and history. His books Sea of Poppies, The Shadow Lines, The Glass Palace and many more show the same.

5. Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay

Generally recognized for the screen adaptations of his novels 'Devdas' and 'Parineeta,' Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay is a household name due to several of his other works as well. His portrayal of daily life signifies keen observations of the mundanity of relationships and society around him. Notable works such as 'Srikanto,' 'Pather Dabi,' and 'Charitraheen' seamlessly blend social issues, relationships, and emotions, creating a universal appeal.

6. Manik Bandyopadhyay

Commencing his writing journey with poetry and short stories, Manik Bandyopadhyay became renowned for his brilliant portrayal of reality and society. Even in his early years as a writer, he displayed a mature handling of relationships in everyday life. Notable works such as 'Padma Nadir Majhi,' 'Putul Nacher Itikotha,' and 'Darpan' serve as clear critiques of socio-economic conditions, addressing issues like poverty and exploitation.

7. Mahasweta Devi

Primarily recognized for her work 'Hajar Churashir Maa,' Mahasweta Devi is also remembered for her dedicated efforts in the empowerment of tribal people. Her focus on the treatment of women from oppressed communities brings out the harsh truths of society. In works such as 'Agnigarbha' and 'Aranyer Adhikar,' she delves into the rights, struggles, and identity of marginalized communities.

8. Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay

Through groundbreaking novels like 'Pather Pachali,' 'Aranyak,' and 'Chander Pahar,' Bibhutibhushan showcased the elegance and natural beauty of Bengal. His portrayal of nature and the connection between human beings and their surroundings is simple and sensitive. Vivid characters in his works reflect his profound understanding of relationships. With grace, he painted a picturesque image of rural Bengal that captivates readers, making them fall in love with its imagery.