Narayan Sanyaler Upannase Udbastu Samasya/ নারায়ণ সান্যালের উপন্যাসে উদ্বাস্তু সমস্যা

Abstract

The Partition of India in 1947 was a cataclysmic event that uprooted millions, forcing them to migrate across newly drawn borders. This mass displacement not only resulted in the loss of homeland but also led to a profound crisis of identity, culture, and survival. The trauma of forced migration and the struggle for rehabilitation have been central themes in many literary works, particularly in Bengali literature. Among the notable voices, Narayan Sanyal’s novels- Bakultala P.L. Camp, Balmik and Aranyadandak - offer a nuanced and multidimensional portrayal of the refugee experience, capturing both the grim realities of displacement and the resilience of the human spirit.

           Sanyal does not merely document the deplorable living conditions of refugees in camps and colonies but also emphasizes their agency, determination, and indomitable humanity. His works explore the psychological and emotional struggles of those who lost everything, yet managed to reconstruct their lives with perseverance and self-respect. Bakultala P.L. Camp presents a stark yet deeply human portrayal of refugee rehabilitation centers, highlighting not only the suffering within but also the extraordinary strength and solidarity among the displaced. Balmik delves deeper into the questions of exile, alienation, and the search for identity, portraying how individuals redefine themselves amidst socio-political turmoil. In Aranyadandak, Sanyal depicts the adversities faced by displaced people as they attempt to build a new life in unfamiliar surroundings.

            What distinguishes Sanyal’s approach is his refusal to portray refugees merely as victims of political upheaval. His narratives challenge conventional perceptions of displacement by illustrating how refugees, despite their losses, contribute to the social and economic fabric of their adopted communities. Through these stories, Sanyal provides a literary testimony to the resilience of the human spirit, showing how individuals can overcome even the most devastating circumstances through sheer determination and a profound sense of humanity.

            This paper seeks to explore how the select novels of Narayan Sanyal redefines the discourse on displacement, survival, and self-reconstruction. By examining his portrayal of the refugee experience, this study aims to highlight the significance of his works in understanding the long-term impact of Partition on the Bengali refugee psyche.