Pather Paanchaali – Bibhuthibhushan Bandhopaadhyaaya

‘Pather Paanchaali’ which means ‘Song of the Road’ is a Bengaali novel written by Bibhuthibhushan Bandhopaadhyaaya during 1928-1929. This novel has been picturized by Sathyajithray in 1955 with the same name, which will always remain as a classic in the Indian film industry.

The story revolves around a poor Brahmin family in the village of Nischindapur in Bengal state. Harihara Roy, a priest lives in his ancestral home with his wife Sarbojaya, daugther Durga, son Apu(the main character in this novel) and a distant relative Indira. Sarbojaya and Indira doesn’t get along well and Indira faces a tragic death. Apu and Durga share an affectionate brother-sister relationship. Despite of their poverty the children derive joy from simple treasures in their village life.

Most of the story is about Apu. His growth from an infant to a young man discovering the world around him is narrated in a heart-touching way. The rural Bengal life is depicted wonderfully and this book takes you back to your childhood memories.

I’ve also read a couple of other books written by this author – Vanavaasi and Chander Pahaar. This book Pather Paanchaali has been transalated to telugu by Maddipatla Suri.