Bhagirath Mishra : a novelist of a unique genre/ ভগীরথ মিশ্র : এক স্বতন্ত্র ঘরানার ঔপন্যাসিক

Abstract

Bhagirath Mishra's literature departs from traditional genres, introducing a narrative style infused with rural and folk elements to explore societal and human narratives. His work delves into the complexities of power dynamics, challenging conventional social theories by presenting power as both oppressive and oppressed, shaped by various factors like favorable context, location, culture, position, etc. Mishra seeks liberation from the deep-rooted power hierarchies, which he finds analogous to a food chain in power relations, aspiring to escape from the cycles of dominance. His novels appear to progress chronologically, with each story paving the way for the next, particularly in terms of power dynamics. For instance, the transition from ‘Ontorgoto Neelsrot’ (1990) to ‘Mrigaya’ (2000) illustrates an expansion of power's narrative from a confined space to broader, more intricate explorations. Bhagirath Mishra's literature marks a significant shift in the portrayal of power from traditional institutions such as religion, caste, and class to more contemporary political realms, set against the vivid backdrop of rural and folk settings. His narratives extend from rural and subaltern struggles to urban crises, presenting a universal view of power dynamics within specific local scenarios, mostly rural and marginal contexts. He enriches his stories with folk traditions such as rural magic, witchcraft, and superstitions, bringing fading folk practices back into contemporary discourse. This paper showcases Bhagirath Mishra's unique narrative style through a selection of his novels, illuminating the complex interplay between societal and individual experiences against a backdrop of power hierarchies. By offering a personal theory of power relations, reviving elements of folk culture, and delving into the detailed and dynamic complexities of marginalized and subaltern societies, Mishra distinguishes himself as a contemporary novelist with a distinctive approach, delving deeply into societal and personal power dynamics.