আফসার আমেদের উপন্যাসে আখ্যানের নতুন দিশা : কিস্‌সার পুনরুদ্ধার / Afsar Ahmeder Uponyase Akhyaner Notun Disha : Kissar Punoruddhar

Abstract

Afsar Ahmed (1959–2018) stands as a distinctive figure in contemporary Bengali literature for his efforts to break traditional narrative molds and introduce a ‘new direction’ through the restoration of the Kissa. While modern novels often follow Western linear structures, Afsar Ahmed revitalized the folk-based ‘Kissa’ style to authentically represent the lives of marginalized rural Muslim communities. In Bengal, this form gained popularity after the 15th century, blending Perso-Arabic themes with local folklore. Notable medieval examples include Yusuf-Zulekha and Laili-Majnu. Over time, ‘Kissa’ became a household literary tradition among Bengali Muslims. However, due to social prejudices, the word ‘Kiccha’ (the Bengali pronunciation) was often distorted into ‘Keccha’, a derogatory term implying scandal or infamy. Afsar Ahmed sought to reclaim this term, restoring its dignity and using it as a serious literary tool to address social and humanistic questions.