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Everything and Nothing
Book Review
"Vivid and Unputdownable" - Megha Rao, A Crazy Kind Of Love
About the Book
In the aftermath of the Noakhali riots, a young Damyanti flees her beloved Bengal to take shelter in an emerging India after partition. Her dreams of a home and flourishing life in Dacca shattered, she strives to forget her past and build anew for herself and her family.
Her life blooms with her children and the community she builds around her in Patna, until the Emergency, the Khalistan Movement and Mandal Commission threaten to disturb it all and once again take away what Damyanti has so lovingly nurtured.
The Ram Mandir agitation is the last straw. Determined to not succumb to the pressures of a hostile communal environment, Damyanti decides to combat her overwhelming guilt for the lack of strength and a failed sense of judgement and redeem all past wrongs by helping right her grandson's life. Damyanti, who has blamed outsiders her entire life for discord and division, is finally forced to accept that her own people could just as easily be the outsiders.
A heartwarming story of love and redemption, Nilotpal's Everything and Nothing is a tribute to a generation that found the strength over and over again to rebuild on the foundation of ruins. A generation that loved, lost and loved again, but never lost hope...
About the Author
Nilotpal, a mechanical engineering graduate from Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi, is a sales professional with more than two decades in the Indian IT industry. He works as Director – Sales with a large IT MNC. Brought up in the mining town Dhanbad, he now lives in Bangalore with his wife Smita. Their son, Abhinav, is studying Economics at the University of Chicago.
"Vivid and Unputdownable" - Megha Rao, A Crazy Kind Of Love
About the Book
In the aftermath of the Noakhali riots, a young Damyanti flees her beloved Bengal to take shelter in an emerging India after partition. Her dreams of a home and flourishing life in Dacca shattered, she strives to forget her past and build anew for herself and her family.
Her life blooms with her children and the community she builds around her in Patna, until the Emergency, the Khalistan Movement and Mandal Commission threaten to disturb it all and once again take away what Damyanti has so lovingly nurtured.
The Ram Mandir agitation is the last straw. Determined to not succumb to the pressures of a hostile communal environment, Damyanti decides to combat her overwhelming guilt for the lack of strength and a failed sense of judgement and redeem all past wrongs by helping right her grandson's life. Damyanti, who has blamed outsiders her entire life for discord and division, is finally forced to accept that her own people could just as easily be the outsiders.
A heartwarming story of love and redemption, Nilotpal's Everything and Nothing is a tribute to a generation that found the strength over and over again to rebuild on the foundation of ruins. A generation that loved, lost and loved again, but never lost hope...
About the Author
Nilotpal, a mechanical engineering graduate from Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi, is a sales professional with more than two decades in the Indian IT industry. He works as Director – Sales with a large IT MNC. Brought up in the mining town Dhanbad, he now lives in Bangalore with his wife Smita. Their son, Abhinav, is studying Economics at the University of Chicago.
189 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2019
5 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
Nilotpal Dutta
5 books4 followersCurrently working as Director - Sales for a large Information Technology MNC, Nilotpal is a sales professional by accident. Wanting to be an IAS officer like any other student from Bihar in the 1980s and early 1990s, primarily to live up to the expectations of almost everyone in the family, near or extended, he took admission in Hansraj College, Delhi University to study Economics. A week into the classes and a few unfortunate interactions made him take the unwise decision of taking the train back once the results of entrance examinations for engineering colleges started coming in. Admitted initially to Regional Engineering College, Surat (now NIT, Surat), he chose to study Mechanical Engineering in Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi.
Scared of using computers in his college, where he made every attempt to remain away from the CAD/CAM laboratory, he now sells Computers and IT Solutions - and with reasonable success. Strangely, he has been doing this for more than twenty five years and is still not bored.
Brought up in Dhanbad, a place he relates to a lot, he has been unlike any ‘Dhanbadwalla’. And mind you, he says this with the knowledge that most of the people from Dhanbad are not a part of Mafia.
Nilotpal completed his schooling from De Nobili, a school run by Jesuit Priests, where he was awarded the ‘Most Representative Student Award’ for the outgoing batch. He lives in Bangalore with his wife, Smita. She works as Senior Director in an IT Services and Consulting MNC. Their son, Abhinav, is pursuing Dual Major in Economics and Public Policy at The University of Chicago.
Scared of using computers in his college, where he made every attempt to remain away from the CAD/CAM laboratory, he now sells Computers and IT Solutions - and with reasonable success. Strangely, he has been doing this for more than twenty five years and is still not bored.
Brought up in Dhanbad, a place he relates to a lot, he has been unlike any ‘Dhanbadwalla’. And mind you, he says this with the knowledge that most of the people from Dhanbad are not a part of Mafia.
Nilotpal completed his schooling from De Nobili, a school run by Jesuit Priests, where he was awarded the ‘Most Representative Student Award’ for the outgoing batch. He lives in Bangalore with his wife, Smita. She works as Senior Director in an IT Services and Consulting MNC. Their son, Abhinav, is pursuing Dual Major in Economics and Public Policy at The University of Chicago.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
September 2, 2020
You feel the brunt of a situation when you and your closed ones are, in reality, going through it. That's what precisely happened to Damyanti, our protagonist, from Everything and Nothing. The politics for separatism were embedded by the British for increasing division amongst the Hindus and Muslims to control India peacefully. 'Divide and Rule' said the Outsiders, and politicians seem to live by it even now.
Author Nilotpal has splendidly scripted the novel, including all the circumstances and situations that we had only faintly learned in our history lessons. How hard it must have been for the people who had to, in effect, endure it. I have rarely come across a separation narrative that of India and East Bengal. Kudos to the author for doing a noteworthy study on the topic; representation of the same chronologically is excellent.
The tale kept me hooked immediately from the start. The shift from past to present story-telling is very smooth. The first couple of episodes are very crucial as they include a lot of characters, and each has an active role in the following sections. I noticed that the structural arrangements in some parts of the story are a little confusing, but then I got the overall essence in the course of reading.
There were several heart-rending pieces when I had tears in my eyes. This novel takes you on a roller-coaster ride of your sentiments, where you surely wish and long for the exact feelings that Damyanti pleads during her journey. The title aptly befits the storyline, but I felt that the cover could have been a little pleasanter. The author touched me with the book, and I want to suggest this book to everyone.
The image of India's & Bangladesh's past, the hard facts of Indian politics devised for self-gain, the communal conflicts, which is accurate even in today's situation, is a profound piece by Nilotpal Dutta. History fiction fans are unquestionably in for entertainment, holding this book!
Author Nilotpal has splendidly scripted the novel, including all the circumstances and situations that we had only faintly learned in our history lessons. How hard it must have been for the people who had to, in effect, endure it. I have rarely come across a separation narrative that of India and East Bengal. Kudos to the author for doing a noteworthy study on the topic; representation of the same chronologically is excellent.
The tale kept me hooked immediately from the start. The shift from past to present story-telling is very smooth. The first couple of episodes are very crucial as they include a lot of characters, and each has an active role in the following sections. I noticed that the structural arrangements in some parts of the story are a little confusing, but then I got the overall essence in the course of reading.
There were several heart-rending pieces when I had tears in my eyes. This novel takes you on a roller-coaster ride of your sentiments, where you surely wish and long for the exact feelings that Damyanti pleads during her journey. The title aptly befits the storyline, but I felt that the cover could have been a little pleasanter. The author touched me with the book, and I want to suggest this book to everyone.
The image of India's & Bangladesh's past, the hard facts of Indian politics devised for self-gain, the communal conflicts, which is accurate even in today's situation, is a profound piece by Nilotpal Dutta. History fiction fans are unquestionably in for entertainment, holding this book!
August 29, 2022
Nilotpal Dutta's second book, Everything and Nothing, is one of the best books I read after many months. The story revolves around Damyanti and her love for Dacca (currently known as Dhaka) and its people.
It has become one of my favorite historical fiction novels. I recommend you read it, especially if you're into reading about Indian riots, divisions, emergencies, independence, and demolition in Ayodhya. This story unfolds many chapters and walks you through the lens of Damyanti, whose heart is full of love and hopes for a better future.
Read the detailed review here - Books Charming
It has become one of my favorite historical fiction novels. I recommend you read it, especially if you're into reading about Indian riots, divisions, emergencies, independence, and demolition in Ayodhya. This story unfolds many chapters and walks you through the lens of Damyanti, whose heart is full of love and hopes for a better future.
Read the detailed review here - Books Charming
January 3, 2020
I finished reading this beautifully written book Everything and Nothing by Author Nilotpal Dutta. It is a novel set in the riots history of India. I found it frighteningly violent yet compelling read. The story is about Damyanti, a strong woman who witnessed a series of heart-rending incidents in her life. Damyanti always dreamt of living in a peaceful Bengal, the place of her birth, childhood, and youth. But after the Noakhali riots she just not had to leave her beloved East Bengal but also her childhood friends Samina, Salim and Manas who showered abundant love on her. She did not want to go away from the place, that had the comforting presence of her friends. But she had to leave it all after witnessing the mass killing and destruction by fellow Bengalis. For all this she had blamed the 'outsiders', held them responsible for sowing the seeds of hatred and mistrust between Hindus and Muslims and of the ugly propaganda declaring the Partition of Bengal, and India, as the only solution.
After loosing everything, she still finds the hope to rebuild a new life around her children and the community in Patna. She tries to forget her past. After many years she receives Samina's letters detailing the treatment meted to East Pakistan by Pakistan Government. Samina's news on the deteriorating condition of Dacca and East Bengal made her cry. She had often prayed for the intervention of a savior, someone who could fight for the people of East Bengal. In her heart, she considered herself as a failure for a lack of will to fight for her own people, and sometimes because of a failed sense of judgement, not being able to read situations correctly. She lived with that burden of guilt.
Author Nilotpal's writing engages the readers emotionally. There are many emotional moments in the book that will make you pause and think and feel about the suffering of the people at that time. Damyanti's character will greatly inspire the readers. I found this book really engrossing. The book is aptly titled and I would love to recommend it to everyone.
After loosing everything, she still finds the hope to rebuild a new life around her children and the community in Patna. She tries to forget her past. After many years she receives Samina's letters detailing the treatment meted to East Pakistan by Pakistan Government. Samina's news on the deteriorating condition of Dacca and East Bengal made her cry. She had often prayed for the intervention of a savior, someone who could fight for the people of East Bengal. In her heart, she considered herself as a failure for a lack of will to fight for her own people, and sometimes because of a failed sense of judgement, not being able to read situations correctly. She lived with that burden of guilt.
Author Nilotpal's writing engages the readers emotionally. There are many emotional moments in the book that will make you pause and think and feel about the suffering of the people at that time. Damyanti's character will greatly inspire the readers. I found this book really engrossing. The book is aptly titled and I would love to recommend it to everyone.
January 9, 2020
This book is perfect to be read now when our country is going almost upside down with the political upheavals and religious bigotry. Strong female protagonist Damayanti now is 82 . She is in her grand bedroom . Rehna and Zafar are shivering .
The deadly silence in Patna feels like the one which will get followed by a devastating storm . U.P , Gujarat and whole India is in the grip communal upheaval .
Life of Damayanti from her very early childhood to final days with her grandchildren is painted so subtly with Backdrops of Bangladesh , Calcutta and Patna taking up nuances of emotions that how love is real faith. She couldn't understand her whole life how can people kill each other in the name of God. How are we so different . Religious fanaticism involved in Nuakhali to Babri Masjid hallaballu along with the phases of loss ,regret , pain of separation , love , longing and everything that actually matters in life are described beautifully .
That uprooting a community from their land not only massacres their families but affects heavily those who though follow other faiths have opened hearts to all .
A sketch of lives of many thousands put into one character talking about the fear of loosing loved ones and inequality faced by Minorities during those riots where many were killed inside their homes and open in day light when government failed to protect them . Narration is heart touching with the facts together with the flow is thought provoking. Red rivers and lands do not bring happiness.
The cover gives away Bengali melancholic vibes. Nostalgic and descriptive backdrop of Bengali household with specific Bengali words used that made me feel more connected to the story. I believe nature never differentiated us .
It never divided us into caste creed and religion . Or made boundaries to create nations. We create it and we kill each other . God never resides in someone's heart who puts others into pain. Very beautiful book by author @nilotpalkumardutta.
The deadly silence in Patna feels like the one which will get followed by a devastating storm . U.P , Gujarat and whole India is in the grip communal upheaval .
Life of Damayanti from her very early childhood to final days with her grandchildren is painted so subtly with Backdrops of Bangladesh , Calcutta and Patna taking up nuances of emotions that how love is real faith. She couldn't understand her whole life how can people kill each other in the name of God. How are we so different . Religious fanaticism involved in Nuakhali to Babri Masjid hallaballu along with the phases of loss ,regret , pain of separation , love , longing and everything that actually matters in life are described beautifully .
That uprooting a community from their land not only massacres their families but affects heavily those who though follow other faiths have opened hearts to all .
A sketch of lives of many thousands put into one character talking about the fear of loosing loved ones and inequality faced by Minorities during those riots where many were killed inside their homes and open in day light when government failed to protect them . Narration is heart touching with the facts together with the flow is thought provoking. Red rivers and lands do not bring happiness.
The cover gives away Bengali melancholic vibes. Nostalgic and descriptive backdrop of Bengali household with specific Bengali words used that made me feel more connected to the story. I believe nature never differentiated us .
It never divided us into caste creed and religion . Or made boundaries to create nations. We create it and we kill each other . God never resides in someone's heart who puts others into pain. Very beautiful book by author @nilotpalkumardutta.
July 14, 2020
A gloomy book can be so fascinating, this is rare but a great approach.
A book based on post independence time it serves as a fascinating history fiction.
The narration style of the author that is simple and lucid is both better for presentation but somewhere degrades the quality of intense emotions that the book holds.
As we get further with reading we find much more relatable, humane writing that makes is very natural. This is a common approach for history fiction and it makes the book and story very sharp and clear.
The more we think about it the better we imagine and enjoy reading it.
There are many things in this book that reflects the efforts in research done for the story, I feel thatuch more details in plot and overall theme that envelopes the story would have brought this book to a hlwhole different level.
This book has most of the elements that makes it a book that you'll like to read if you are a history fiction lover.
A book based on post independence time it serves as a fascinating history fiction.
The narration style of the author that is simple and lucid is both better for presentation but somewhere degrades the quality of intense emotions that the book holds.
As we get further with reading we find much more relatable, humane writing that makes is very natural. This is a common approach for history fiction and it makes the book and story very sharp and clear.
The more we think about it the better we imagine and enjoy reading it.
There are many things in this book that reflects the efforts in research done for the story, I feel thatuch more details in plot and overall theme that envelopes the story would have brought this book to a hlwhole different level.
This book has most of the elements that makes it a book that you'll like to read if you are a history fiction lover.
June 29, 2020
This is a good piece of fiction that revolves around the histories of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It also brilliantly portrays the negative effects of communal tensions on both religions. Damyanti, a girl from Dacca loved her birthplace and dreamt of spending her whole life there with a bunch of good friends from various religions. Her ancestors, seemingly from a modest family at first transform into one that gains importance in various sections over the year. Just when everything seems to be normal and India was to gain independence things take a turn for worst. The communal tensions keep increasing and her group falls apart. With time, she founds herself married to Gautam, a very respectful and caring gentleman. Meanwhile, Damyanti becomes one of the first female doctors in the country and both of them look towards a bright future ahead. But, then the Partition takes place and chaos erupts. Damyanti loses her near and dear ones and moves to India along with her husband. Unfortunately, she had many more battles to fight.
What I liked -
(1) The author has very beautifully meshed historical events with his fictional characters. This makes the book a lot more realistic.
(2) The writing style is simple and lucid, so easy to read for everyone.
(3) I also liked how he was able to remain impartial for most parts.
(4) As for the main characters, the character development is brilliant.
(5) The ending was a much-needed one after all the happenings throughout the book. If not, it may have left me with a bad taste in my mouth.
(6) The ground level research by the author on the effects of communal clashes on normal citizens is something I absolutely respect.
What could have been better-
(1) For one, I felt the whole book plot followed a single chain, I would have loved a bit more depth at that.
(2) It could be just my issue but I was not able to relate the Title to the story arc completely.
But a book that deserves to be read. If not for anything else than the history it covers. Kudos to the author!!
.
#mysecretbookshelf
What I liked -
(1) The author has very beautifully meshed historical events with his fictional characters. This makes the book a lot more realistic.
(2) The writing style is simple and lucid, so easy to read for everyone.
(3) I also liked how he was able to remain impartial for most parts.
(4) As for the main characters, the character development is brilliant.
(5) The ending was a much-needed one after all the happenings throughout the book. If not, it may have left me with a bad taste in my mouth.
(6) The ground level research by the author on the effects of communal clashes on normal citizens is something I absolutely respect.
What could have been better-
(1) For one, I felt the whole book plot followed a single chain, I would have loved a bit more depth at that.
(2) It could be just my issue but I was not able to relate the Title to the story arc completely.
But a book that deserves to be read. If not for anything else than the history it covers. Kudos to the author!!
.
#mysecretbookshelf
July 1, 2020
The Story of Damayanti, an innocent kid brought up in 1900s in Dacca which was then a part of Bengal. The story gradually progresses with the political turmoil and tension that Paritition of Bengal into Pakistan gave them and then again Dacca into Bangladesh gave.
I've never read a book from this perspective. It was emotionally touching to see what a person must have gone through yet how unnecessary all the riots were
I loved the backdrop of the story but felt like there were too many things being fit inside. Too many issues and too many characters. By the end of the story there were so many of relatives of Damyanti that I found it pretty hard to keep track of.
I've never read a book from this perspective. It was emotionally touching to see what a person must have gone through yet how unnecessary all the riots were
I loved the backdrop of the story but felt like there were too many things being fit inside. Too many issues and too many characters. By the end of the story there were so many of relatives of Damyanti that I found it pretty hard to keep track of.
February 27, 2021
Pre and post Indian Independence
There are very few books that made me like it from the very first page, and this book is definitely one of them. At some points it brought tears to my eyes while some made me anxious and the rest brought a sense of joy and pride. The book is set in the backdrop of Dhaka and then shifts to Noakhali, Calcutta and Patna. Damayanti is determined to spend her entire life in Dhaka with her family and friends. She was one of the few female doctors of her time and everyone respected her. Little did she know that the partition of Bengal and its aftermath will affect her life so much. All her life, Damayanti was faced with so many challenges and setbacks that it broke her heart. Yet everytime she faced the setback and emerged as a stronger woman. The hellish description of political aggression post Indian Independence is sure to surge a wave of sadness in the reader's mind. The political scenario and its effects on the social life of the people are heart wrenching. However, even after all these, the book ends in a happy note. It proves the proverb, united we stand and divided we fall. I recommend this book to everyone who reads socio-political books. It is a great way to understand the Bengal and India post Independence.
There are very few books that made me like it from the very first page, and this book is definitely one of them. At some points it brought tears to my eyes while some made me anxious and the rest brought a sense of joy and pride. The book is set in the backdrop of Dhaka and then shifts to Noakhali, Calcutta and Patna. Damayanti is determined to spend her entire life in Dhaka with her family and friends. She was one of the few female doctors of her time and everyone respected her. Little did she know that the partition of Bengal and its aftermath will affect her life so much. All her life, Damayanti was faced with so many challenges and setbacks that it broke her heart. Yet everytime she faced the setback and emerged as a stronger woman. The hellish description of political aggression post Indian Independence is sure to surge a wave of sadness in the reader's mind. The political scenario and its effects on the social life of the people are heart wrenching. However, even after all these, the book ends in a happy note. It proves the proverb, united we stand and divided we fall. I recommend this book to everyone who reads socio-political books. It is a great way to understand the Bengal and India post Independence.
December 29, 2019
Human bonds are and will forever be more important than religion...
This book is a beautiful portrayal of the fact that no matter how-much-ever the evil forces work against us, the true spirit always makes us think good. The difference between 'human' and 'humane' is for us to realise. We ultimately become what we choose to be.
The narratives in this book are simple yet impactful. You are transported into an era of uncertainties and violent outbursts; still you feel the hope of seeing peace prevail and tranquil take over. The theme dates back to Bengal Partition, although the happenings seem so contemporary. The style of the author is so reader-friendly, it easily connects and you get engrossed. I have also read Nilotpal's first novel 'In Retrospect' and I must say I will be waiting for his next...
This book is a beautiful portrayal of the fact that no matter how-much-ever the evil forces work against us, the true spirit always makes us think good. The difference between 'human' and 'humane' is for us to realise. We ultimately become what we choose to be.
The narratives in this book are simple yet impactful. You are transported into an era of uncertainties and violent outbursts; still you feel the hope of seeing peace prevail and tranquil take over. The theme dates back to Bengal Partition, although the happenings seem so contemporary. The style of the author is so reader-friendly, it easily connects and you get engrossed. I have also read Nilotpal's first novel 'In Retrospect' and I must say I will be waiting for his next...
March 27, 2020
Set admist the time, where a generation saw love, saw it twisted by communal whereabouts, found it redefined in hopes of redemption to finally arrive for a rendezvous with reminiscence. Only time had passed, the evils remain the same. .
.
Damyanti abandoned a riot torned Bengal to seek what home felt like in India. She finds what she could've defined as happiness, until her demons surface yet again to take that away from her. Only this time to find her determined to correct her wrongs, to stand for everything she previously couldn't. .
.
Manoeuvring around the struggles of time; when hope, love, life and happiness; all where forced to be connected through hostile communal environment, the author's narrative, his words; fuel emotions; flawlessly. .
.
My rating: 4/5
.
Damyanti abandoned a riot torned Bengal to seek what home felt like in India. She finds what she could've defined as happiness, until her demons surface yet again to take that away from her. Only this time to find her determined to correct her wrongs, to stand for everything she previously couldn't. .
.
Manoeuvring around the struggles of time; when hope, love, life and happiness; all where forced to be connected through hostile communal environment, the author's narrative, his words; fuel emotions; flawlessly. .
.
My rating: 4/5
April 28, 2020
. ‘Everything and Nothing’ is a great read. The story has been written in the backdrop of a painful partition that history witnessed. Much has been written about the pain that people went through when west Pakistan was created but the author uses the backdrop of the creation of East Pakistan and subsequent formation of Bangladesh as the key vortex around which the life of the protagonist revolves. There are many characters that weave in and out of the plot cleverly intertwined with notable events occurring in the country. There are some events that seem very intensely documented, something the author could have avoided.
The book makes for a great read and should pull at readers heart strings hoping intently for a happy picture as the last pages flip to an end
The book makes for a great read and should pull at readers heart strings hoping intently for a happy picture as the last pages flip to an end
December 10, 2019
Nilotpal has put in a lot of research and ensured thr chronology of events is described perfectly to fit into the central theme of Damayanti’s internal struggles in everyday life. Honestly, kept reading as there was something going to happen in the next page and hence the story is gripping to say the least.
Through this book and through Damayanti’s life story, we get a feeling of how living life in Pre-Independence India and to modern day India was for our folks!
Highly recommended if you want a book which will keep you engrossed till the last page
Through this book and through Damayanti’s life story, we get a feeling of how living life in Pre-Independence India and to modern day India was for our folks!
Highly recommended if you want a book which will keep you engrossed till the last page
December 12, 2019
Completely mesmerising and easy to read
Wonderful narration of the partition of bengal through the eyes of Damayanti that describes the communal harmony of erstwhile Bengal along with its culturàl richness. Most importantly, the story is written in such a simple and lucid way that motivates even a novice reader to read the book without any pause!!
Wonderful narration of the partition of bengal through the eyes of Damayanti that describes the communal harmony of erstwhile Bengal along with its culturàl richness. Most importantly, the story is written in such a simple and lucid way that motivates even a novice reader to read the book without any pause!!
June 26, 2020
This one was a riveting read. It is one of the best fiction on partition I have read so far. Also it speaks of partition from partition of Bengal perspective. Right from the cover to the name of the book to the name of the characters, everything has a significant place. Love the author's thought process. It's simple and yet it is not.
June 19, 2020
Everything and Nothing, not a light read at all. As the title speaks, the takeaway is somewhere in between for me. 🥂
.
I had a friend in school, who later went on to become my best friend, who had to flee the Gujarat Riots which took place and which ruffled so many lives. She lost her grandfather and a sister in those chilling riots. A part of me read something similar happening to characters in this book. .
Damayanti traverses history like how I did, chapters after chapters where I collided with all the turbulent time periods I have read about in history, forming a trail of emotions as one flips pages, with the strength of Damayanti accompanying the progression. I love how @nilotpalkumardutta writes without losing facts in the riots of commotion. .
Religious fanaticism involved in Nuakhali to Ram Mandir, the prose feels viscid. Passages are thoughtful, an easy read with not much ado about everything. Even with bunch of random ideas and events are pulled together, it's equally partial in a concoction of history and drama for readers who love Bengali Lit. Political science is an underage theme of this book which focuses on social disservice and public melancholia. .
I love visualizing my reads which talk of the past. Hardly have I ever read a flawless or all happy and go lucky past. Past carries burden for the present. The characters, stories all merge Nothing into Everything. Many books have written about specks of history and presented a side to us. This literature achieves in that sense, the purpose of writing or reading fiction wit vibes of past. . .
Partition of Bengal in 1905 to Noakhali Riots in 1946 to Partition of India & Pakistan to East Pakistan Genocide that led to Bangladesh liberation in 1971 to Emergency in 1975 under Indira Gandhi to Babri Masjid Demolition in 1992, I was reading the emotional drape of curtains between these incidents. .
.
I had a friend in school, who later went on to become my best friend, who had to flee the Gujarat Riots which took place and which ruffled so many lives. She lost her grandfather and a sister in those chilling riots. A part of me read something similar happening to characters in this book. .
Damayanti traverses history like how I did, chapters after chapters where I collided with all the turbulent time periods I have read about in history, forming a trail of emotions as one flips pages, with the strength of Damayanti accompanying the progression. I love how @nilotpalkumardutta writes without losing facts in the riots of commotion. .
Religious fanaticism involved in Nuakhali to Ram Mandir, the prose feels viscid. Passages are thoughtful, an easy read with not much ado about everything. Even with bunch of random ideas and events are pulled together, it's equally partial in a concoction of history and drama for readers who love Bengali Lit. Political science is an underage theme of this book which focuses on social disservice and public melancholia. .
I love visualizing my reads which talk of the past. Hardly have I ever read a flawless or all happy and go lucky past. Past carries burden for the present. The characters, stories all merge Nothing into Everything. Many books have written about specks of history and presented a side to us. This literature achieves in that sense, the purpose of writing or reading fiction wit vibes of past. . .
Partition of Bengal in 1905 to Noakhali Riots in 1946 to Partition of India & Pakistan to East Pakistan Genocide that led to Bangladesh liberation in 1971 to Emergency in 1975 under Indira Gandhi to Babri Masjid Demolition in 1992, I was reading the emotional drape of curtains between these incidents. .
June 20, 2020
Thousands of lives through one protagonist
This book relates to the era of India in which East Indian company was set where the innocent lives left everything due to wipe out in the partition. As we move back in time, we also move back to realize the hardships that people have faced. The protagonist of the book is Damyanti, her life was portrayed since her childhood until she becomes old at the age of 82. The traumas faced by her were depicted in the plot. The inequality between humans and their religions were briefed. The heartbreaking moments took place in her life. The narration takes us to that period, and it makes us look at the perturbations that the people have encountered, however, after struggling in their lives, they have overwhelmed those circumstances to attain tranquility.
- My point of view
• We pretend to become with respect to our thoughts.
• The sequential scenes of her life have made it easier for us to witness our previous generations.
• A few Bengali words were used to connect with the story.
• The story was not dragging rather the right amount of precise information was confined in the flipping pages that felt more intriguing towards the writing style of the author.
• It is a gripping story; it was fast-paced at certain stages and set on a real-time basis.
-Why do I love in this book?
•The author has done research over history, and that seemed to be pretty interesting.
•This story makes us believe that we can do wonders even if we lose everything as the character of Damyanti spreads optimism.
•I love the way how the author has made the readers discern about the lives of numerous people through the life of Damyanti.
• The title is apt to the plot.
This book relates to the era of India in which East Indian company was set where the innocent lives left everything due to wipe out in the partition. As we move back in time, we also move back to realize the hardships that people have faced. The protagonist of the book is Damyanti, her life was portrayed since her childhood until she becomes old at the age of 82. The traumas faced by her were depicted in the plot. The inequality between humans and their religions were briefed. The heartbreaking moments took place in her life. The narration takes us to that period, and it makes us look at the perturbations that the people have encountered, however, after struggling in their lives, they have overwhelmed those circumstances to attain tranquility.
- My point of view
• We pretend to become with respect to our thoughts.
• The sequential scenes of her life have made it easier for us to witness our previous generations.
• A few Bengali words were used to connect with the story.
• The story was not dragging rather the right amount of precise information was confined in the flipping pages that felt more intriguing towards the writing style of the author.
• It is a gripping story; it was fast-paced at certain stages and set on a real-time basis.
-Why do I love in this book?
•The author has done research over history, and that seemed to be pretty interesting.
•This story makes us believe that we can do wonders even if we lose everything as the character of Damyanti spreads optimism.
•I love the way how the author has made the readers discern about the lives of numerous people through the life of Damyanti.
• The title is apt to the plot.
July 3, 2020
In the aftermath of the Noakhali riots, a young Damyanti flees her beloved Bengal to take shelter in an emerging India after partition. Her dreams of a home and flourishing life in Dacca shattered, she strives to forget her past and build anew for herself and her family.
Her life blooms with her children and the community she builds around her in Patna, until the Emergency, the Khalistan Movement and Mandal Commission threaten to disturb it all and once again take away what Damyanti has so lovingly nurtured.
Damyanti, who has blamed outsiders her entire life for discord and division, is finally forced to accept that her own people could just as easily be the outsiders.
The cover is Beautiful and the title is suitable for the story.
Also the language is easy to understand and narration is lucid and fast paced. Author has done a lot of research and have explained it very well.
This is emotional yet a beautiful read. It was keeping me engrossed the whole time.
The character of Damayanti is well developed and will inspire you.
Stars - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
Her life blooms with her children and the community she builds around her in Patna, until the Emergency, the Khalistan Movement and Mandal Commission threaten to disturb it all and once again take away what Damyanti has so lovingly nurtured.
Damyanti, who has blamed outsiders her entire life for discord and division, is finally forced to accept that her own people could just as easily be the outsiders.
The cover is Beautiful and the title is suitable for the story.
Also the language is easy to understand and narration is lucid and fast paced. Author has done a lot of research and have explained it very well.
This is emotional yet a beautiful read. It was keeping me engrossed the whole time.
The character of Damayanti is well developed and will inspire you.
Stars - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
February 18, 2021
A story worth reading
Everything and Nothing is a story of Damyanti who was forced to leave her home in Dacca and get settled in Puna because of the riots and cruelty happening around in the name of wanting a separate country for Muslims. The story backdrop is in Dacca and Puna majorly showing the good and bad of politics before and after independence. The atrocities of politicians and few selfish people who tend to commit rape and murder in the name of community and religion were explained in a way that would surely bring tears in your eyes.
The story is narrated in third person and it must be read with much concentration to get the real essence of the story because there are quite a few names including the kids, grandchildren and friends and neighbors of Damyanti which might be a bit confusing. The inclusion of Indira Gandhi and other real time situations made the story more live and real. The title is perfect for the story and the cover is beautiful giving out the peaceful feeling whenever we look at it.
"Dacca was like a mother, in whose lap she still felt safe"
The feelings and emotions of Damyanti at various phases of her life when she was losing hope after hope was beautifully narrated and my favorite parts were where the letters between Samina and Damyanti were being exchanged. Must appreciate the author for presenting such sensitive issues in a detailed and engaging way making it a nice read.
#teammysecrerbookshelf
Everything and Nothing is a story of Damyanti who was forced to leave her home in Dacca and get settled in Puna because of the riots and cruelty happening around in the name of wanting a separate country for Muslims. The story backdrop is in Dacca and Puna majorly showing the good and bad of politics before and after independence. The atrocities of politicians and few selfish people who tend to commit rape and murder in the name of community and religion were explained in a way that would surely bring tears in your eyes.
The story is narrated in third person and it must be read with much concentration to get the real essence of the story because there are quite a few names including the kids, grandchildren and friends and neighbors of Damyanti which might be a bit confusing. The inclusion of Indira Gandhi and other real time situations made the story more live and real. The title is perfect for the story and the cover is beautiful giving out the peaceful feeling whenever we look at it.
"Dacca was like a mother, in whose lap she still felt safe"
The feelings and emotions of Damyanti at various phases of her life when she was losing hope after hope was beautifully narrated and my favorite parts were where the letters between Samina and Damyanti were being exchanged. Must appreciate the author for presenting such sensitive issues in a detailed and engaging way making it a nice read.
#teammysecrerbookshelf
July 2, 2020
Everything and Nothing
Author : Nilotpal Dutta
Story revolves around a 85 yrs old women from her childhood .Her fantasies of a home and thriving life in Dacca broke, she endeavors to overlook her past and construct again for herself and her family in the result of the Noakhali riots,flees her beloved Bengal to take shelter in an emerging India after partition.
she lived in environment where religion segregation isn't endured yet 1947 segment makes a huge difference as Britishers gave to India by partitioning it half piece of punjab and some portion of Bengal is isolated and made a pakistan,her significant other catch and death going of her associates there adolescents her allies horrendous condition and her understudies fight about station and system absence of intrigue which is a political gift to India to lead over it.
the Khalistan Movement and Mandal Commission take steps to upset everything and by and by remove what Damyanti has so affectionately sustained. Ram Mandir fomentation is the issue that is finally too much to bear. Resolved to not surrender to the weights of an antagonistic common condition, Damyanti chooses to battle her mind-boggling blame for the absence of solidarity and a bombed feeling of judgment and reclaim every previous wrong by helping right her grandson's life. Damyanti, who has accused outcasts her whole life for conflict and division, is at last compelled to acknowledge that her own kin could simply be the pariahs.
1. I love the way how the writer has caused the perusers to perceive about the lives of various individuals through the duration of Damyanti.
2.title matches the plot and a decent cover page
3. The creator has done research over history and that appeared to be entirely fascinating.
4.positive book one must read.
Overall , a decent book to read.
Author : Nilotpal Dutta
Story revolves around a 85 yrs old women from her childhood .Her fantasies of a home and thriving life in Dacca broke, she endeavors to overlook her past and construct again for herself and her family in the result of the Noakhali riots,flees her beloved Bengal to take shelter in an emerging India after partition.
she lived in environment where religion segregation isn't endured yet 1947 segment makes a huge difference as Britishers gave to India by partitioning it half piece of punjab and some portion of Bengal is isolated and made a pakistan,her significant other catch and death going of her associates there adolescents her allies horrendous condition and her understudies fight about station and system absence of intrigue which is a political gift to India to lead over it.
the Khalistan Movement and Mandal Commission take steps to upset everything and by and by remove what Damyanti has so affectionately sustained. Ram Mandir fomentation is the issue that is finally too much to bear. Resolved to not surrender to the weights of an antagonistic common condition, Damyanti chooses to battle her mind-boggling blame for the absence of solidarity and a bombed feeling of judgment and reclaim every previous wrong by helping right her grandson's life. Damyanti, who has accused outcasts her whole life for conflict and division, is at last compelled to acknowledge that her own kin could simply be the pariahs.
1. I love the way how the writer has caused the perusers to perceive about the lives of various individuals through the duration of Damyanti.
2.title matches the plot and a decent cover page
3. The creator has done research over history and that appeared to be entirely fascinating.
4.positive book one must read.
Overall , a decent book to read.
June 24, 2020
Everything and Nothing by Nilotpal Dutta is a story that shows the transition of a country as it grapples to emerge from the shadows of colonialism and how the ideals of a person change with the changing circumstances. The author has started the story pre-independence as he takes us through the minds of the people and how social identities were important in the earlier times. Using the eyes of Damyanti, he describes the changing times as she witnesses the unity of people as a child when Bengal was reunited. Her ideals are established through those times, and until the tragedy becomes unbearable in Naokhali, her belief in her homeland was unbreakable. As the story progresses and Damyanti begins her life afresh, we see multiple events testing her ideals time and again, which is a social commentary of how the society moved from a social identity to a religion and caste-based identity. The plot of the book is extremely engaging and there is no point where it dulls. Nilotpal has blended historical events with the plot with ease and it is a journey that is quite interesting. With a singular narrative and a single perspective, there are times where a reader might pause and contemplate and might just relate to current situations as well. It is a story well written, which will resonate with a lot of people. The book explores multiple themes of relationships, hope, trust and ethics, all of which get a proper closure in a climax befitting the story. The one thing that deserves a mention is the element of irony in the story at multiple points.
Coming to the characters, Nilotpal has given due focus to the characters. He created Damyanti as his storyteller as she narrates the happenings of the times as well as her commentary on the same. Her belief systems form a critical component of the story. The story details how every situation made her belief systems and how they impact the future events of the story. Her relationships with people are explored and detailed across generation. Her resilience, faith and resolve are tested yet they never break. The second character, although subtle, is the country of India. As he explores the transition of the country from being a colony to being independent, suffering through the scars of partition, religious clashes and social divide, we see the nation evolve and impact the story as well. As the story moves, we see the nation change and thus change the narrative.
It is a must-read book and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who has an interest in history-based fiction.
Coming to the characters, Nilotpal has given due focus to the characters. He created Damyanti as his storyteller as she narrates the happenings of the times as well as her commentary on the same. Her belief systems form a critical component of the story. The story details how every situation made her belief systems and how they impact the future events of the story. Her relationships with people are explored and detailed across generation. Her resilience, faith and resolve are tested yet they never break. The second character, although subtle, is the country of India. As he explores the transition of the country from being a colony to being independent, suffering through the scars of partition, religious clashes and social divide, we see the nation evolve and impact the story as well. As the story moves, we see the nation change and thus change the narrative.
It is a must-read book and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who has an interest in history-based fiction.
June 17, 2020
Well researched and honest story telling. The lead character who is clearly torn in spirit between places and people is central and well developed.
Can also recommend this to readers who wish to understand more about the political history between India and Bangladesh.
Can also recommend this to readers who wish to understand more about the political history between India and Bangladesh.
July 15, 2020
Everything and Nothing by Nilotpal Dutt is the story of Damyanti a woman born and brought up in Dacca then part of Bengal and India(now called Dhaka, part of Bangladesh) tells us her story and going through the various milestones and tragedies and wars in her lifetime across the Indian subcontinent in a span of 70 years or more.
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The book had me hooked from the fourth page itself. It has throughly been researched and traces back to the historic decisions taken from when Bangladesh and Pakistan were part of India.
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The build up of the story starts from the young Damyanti's journey and her childhood experiences and her family make who she becomes later on in her life
.
At every step there are characters that start a new journey for Damyanti and forms relationships that make a difference in how she looks at her surroundings.
.
The occurrences regarding every war, every achievement and every setback has Damyanti as a central character.
.
Through the book one who didn't see those decades someone like me will make you teary-eyed.
.
The chain of linking events with every incident keeps a check from not just perspective but what actually happened.
.
The narrative is smooth-flowing and you see a new Damyanti in every part.
.
Damyanti is a metaphor and one of the few fictional characters who have seen what the people of the subcontinent have gone through.
.
In almost every religion there is one particular preaching in one form or another that tells us the same thing " we will go back in the same land in which we were born."
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This book makes you realise that the land you will go back to will have the same soil that is shared by the entire Indian subcontinent.
.
The book had me hooked from the fourth page itself. It has throughly been researched and traces back to the historic decisions taken from when Bangladesh and Pakistan were part of India.
.
The build up of the story starts from the young Damyanti's journey and her childhood experiences and her family make who she becomes later on in her life
.
At every step there are characters that start a new journey for Damyanti and forms relationships that make a difference in how she looks at her surroundings.
.
The occurrences regarding every war, every achievement and every setback has Damyanti as a central character.
.
Through the book one who didn't see those decades someone like me will make you teary-eyed.
.
The chain of linking events with every incident keeps a check from not just perspective but what actually happened.
.
The narrative is smooth-flowing and you see a new Damyanti in every part.
.
Damyanti is a metaphor and one of the few fictional characters who have seen what the people of the subcontinent have gone through.
.
In almost every religion there is one particular preaching in one form or another that tells us the same thing " we will go back in the same land in which we were born."
.
This book makes you realise that the land you will go back to will have the same soil that is shared by the entire Indian subcontinent.
July 6, 2020
A great historical fiction
Damyanti is born and brought up in Dacca (present day Dhaka,Bangladesh) and had a childhood she always wished to retain and cherish ,her friends ,games and marry Salim .
But India is raging with the fierce riots one after other on name of religion and bloodthirsty to spill the blood of Damyanti's loved ones.
Many events like independence of India ,partition of India , communal riots , 1971 war ,Death of Indira Gandhi , and then the Babri Masjid riots ,India burnt sometimes because of the the outsiders and sometimes because of the outsidish mentality of the inside people . The character of the lead protagonist Damyanti is strong ,intelligent and inspiring ,a character that engages on an emotional level and will stay longer in your conscious .
The amalgamation of historical events with the events and life of Damyanti forms a wonderful historical read worth reading and cherishing .
The narration is commendable and it finely holds the two ends of the tale with extreme finesse.
Damyanti is born and brought up in Dacca (present day Dhaka,Bangladesh) and had a childhood she always wished to retain and cherish ,her friends ,games and marry Salim .
But India is raging with the fierce riots one after other on name of religion and bloodthirsty to spill the blood of Damyanti's loved ones.
Many events like independence of India ,partition of India , communal riots , 1971 war ,Death of Indira Gandhi , and then the Babri Masjid riots ,India burnt sometimes because of the the outsiders and sometimes because of the outsidish mentality of the inside people . The character of the lead protagonist Damyanti is strong ,intelligent and inspiring ,a character that engages on an emotional level and will stay longer in your conscious .
The amalgamation of historical events with the events and life of Damyanti forms a wonderful historical read worth reading and cherishing .
The narration is commendable and it finely holds the two ends of the tale with extreme finesse.
June 24, 2020
Book name: Everything and Nothing
Author: Nilotpal Dutta
Format : kindle
Rating : 4.5/5
***************** Taking back to the era where the English east India company set its foot and the play begins in a way portraying the life of Damyanti's born in Decca and dreamt of living there till her end. But due to critical circumstances she had to leave to East Bengal after witnessing the mass dispute by her own people. The well narration of the book covers a series of important incidents which happened in the history before the independence of India. Wonderful narration of the partition of Bengal through the eyes of Damyanti that describes the communal harmony of erstwhile Bengal along with its cultural richness.
A sketch of lives of many thousands put into one character talking about the fear of losing loved ones and inequality faced by Minorities during those riots where many were killed inside their homes and open in day light when government failed to protect them. Narration is heart touching with the facts together with the flow is thought provoking. Red rivers and lands do not bring happiness.
Damyanti's character was well developed and the book was well narrated. The author has also written about how the politicians and government work for their own benefit and not for the people. The book was an engrossing read and it kept me hooked till the last page.
*********************
#onmybookshelf #bookreviews #instabooks #everythingandnothing #teammysecretbookshelf
Author: Nilotpal Dutta
Format : kindle
Rating : 4.5/5
***************** Taking back to the era where the English east India company set its foot and the play begins in a way portraying the life of Damyanti's born in Decca and dreamt of living there till her end. But due to critical circumstances she had to leave to East Bengal after witnessing the mass dispute by her own people. The well narration of the book covers a series of important incidents which happened in the history before the independence of India. Wonderful narration of the partition of Bengal through the eyes of Damyanti that describes the communal harmony of erstwhile Bengal along with its cultural richness.
A sketch of lives of many thousands put into one character talking about the fear of losing loved ones and inequality faced by Minorities during those riots where many were killed inside their homes and open in day light when government failed to protect them. Narration is heart touching with the facts together with the flow is thought provoking. Red rivers and lands do not bring happiness.
Damyanti's character was well developed and the book was well narrated. The author has also written about how the politicians and government work for their own benefit and not for the people. The book was an engrossing read and it kept me hooked till the last page.
*********************
#onmybookshelf #bookreviews #instabooks #everythingandnothing #teammysecretbookshelf
June 25, 2020
I love the cover design , for myself it represents the peace we all search for , and the peace Damyanti hoped for.
Damyanti - the survival of partition , the riots that followed the partition of India. Leaving her home , her friends , her people in Dacca , due to the ongoing religious riots. Damyanti left Dacca but Dacca never left Damyanti's heart. She had to leave her home - the place where she was born , got married and had a family , all because people for god that human life is way more important.
This book is not just a story , these are emotions of people of that generation which went through partition and all the riots and violence that followed.
This book represents strong emotions and connect well with the reader. The looming fear of death , pain of separation , every feeling is well conveyed.
It has a constant Pace and transition between past and present are smooth. It depicts the agony of people very well. It's a thoughtful read.
Every character has an essence different from one another. It's a beautiful which gives you a lot to think about. A book which makes reader think about things happening around us. The injustice that happened and is still going on. When will we realise , that we are all humans. Overal thoughtful read , with a lot of emotions.
Worth reading. Do give it a try.
Damyanti - the survival of partition , the riots that followed the partition of India. Leaving her home , her friends , her people in Dacca , due to the ongoing religious riots. Damyanti left Dacca but Dacca never left Damyanti's heart. She had to leave her home - the place where she was born , got married and had a family , all because people for god that human life is way more important.
This book is not just a story , these are emotions of people of that generation which went through partition and all the riots and violence that followed.
This book represents strong emotions and connect well with the reader. The looming fear of death , pain of separation , every feeling is well conveyed.
It has a constant Pace and transition between past and present are smooth. It depicts the agony of people very well. It's a thoughtful read.
Every character has an essence different from one another. It's a beautiful which gives you a lot to think about. A book which makes reader think about things happening around us. The injustice that happened and is still going on. When will we realise , that we are all humans. Overal thoughtful read , with a lot of emotions.
Worth reading. Do give it a try.
March 6, 2021
This book shares the story of Damyanti, an octogenarian, with a rocky past. Starting from her great-grandfather, the lives of her family through generations starting from Dacca are shared. From the early period of 1800s, the times when religion conflict sharted, the major events are widely explored.
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The relation between the book title and the story was unclear in the beginning. But as the story progresses, a lot of link can be found between them. Many historical events during the Indian freedom fighting moment are covered in this book. Rather than sharing the view of the wider public, Damyanti's thoughts about them and the impact of the events on her are focused on. All of us know that that period was a very tough time and many lost their lives. But after reading this book, I can understand the feeling of every person who wanted India to be a united nation. The book is beautifully written, but the events weren't chronological is some places and that confused me a little. There are many characters too, so I had to move back a few pages many times to remind myself of them. Maybe a family tree could have been attached in the book. I surely recommend this book to every person, I'm sure you'll experience a new kind of sadness while reading it, just like I did.
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#teammysecretbookshelf
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The relation between the book title and the story was unclear in the beginning. But as the story progresses, a lot of link can be found between them. Many historical events during the Indian freedom fighting moment are covered in this book. Rather than sharing the view of the wider public, Damyanti's thoughts about them and the impact of the events on her are focused on. All of us know that that period was a very tough time and many lost their lives. But after reading this book, I can understand the feeling of every person who wanted India to be a united nation. The book is beautifully written, but the events weren't chronological is some places and that confused me a little. There are many characters too, so I had to move back a few pages many times to remind myself of them. Maybe a family tree could have been attached in the book. I surely recommend this book to every person, I'm sure you'll experience a new kind of sadness while reading it, just like I did.
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#teammysecretbookshelf
Currently reading
March 1, 2021Book- Everything and Nothing
Author- Nilotpal Dutta
Genre- Period drama
Rating- 4.2/5
Review-
India has been through some memorable moments in the 20th century, which had changed the lives of people forever. Right from the partition of India and East Pakistan to Quit India movement, from Emergency to the Hindu-Muslim riots, we have witnessed some great anxious moments. In that period, the rich and powerful authorities became more power hungry, and the poor citizens suffered more.
The protagonist of the book ‘Everything and Nothing’, Damayanti was one of them. She was one of those who came to India during the partition. The young Damayanti was shattered. But she didn’t lose hope. How hard the struggle was, the rigidity she showed is the pinpoint of the story, well at least according to me.
The fast changing times, and the struggles of the common man at that time, is picture-perfectly mirrored out in this book. The communal fights were right written here. It never felt that I was reading anything fictional, it all felt very much realistic. Hats off to the author for his ground level researches. And I was kind of moved aback by the strong sentiments used in the narration. The pain of death, what it means to be separated, and the emotional quotient was quite high in the narrative.
If I could say what I liked most about this story, it would definitely be the ground work done by the author, and the narration. Definitely recommended. One of my best read of this year, till now.
Author- Nilotpal Dutta
Genre- Period drama
Rating- 4.2/5
Review-
India has been through some memorable moments in the 20th century, which had changed the lives of people forever. Right from the partition of India and East Pakistan to Quit India movement, from Emergency to the Hindu-Muslim riots, we have witnessed some great anxious moments. In that period, the rich and powerful authorities became more power hungry, and the poor citizens suffered more.
The protagonist of the book ‘Everything and Nothing’, Damayanti was one of them. She was one of those who came to India during the partition. The young Damayanti was shattered. But she didn’t lose hope. How hard the struggle was, the rigidity she showed is the pinpoint of the story, well at least according to me.
The fast changing times, and the struggles of the common man at that time, is picture-perfectly mirrored out in this book. The communal fights were right written here. It never felt that I was reading anything fictional, it all felt very much realistic. Hats off to the author for his ground level researches. And I was kind of moved aback by the strong sentiments used in the narration. The pain of death, what it means to be separated, and the emotional quotient was quite high in the narrative.
If I could say what I liked most about this story, it would definitely be the ground work done by the author, and the narration. Definitely recommended. One of my best read of this year, till now.
March 3, 2021
Damyanti had been born in Dacca (present-day Dhaka). Her life revolves around various Hindu-Muslim riots and the division of Bengal into East and West. As such, she had to move to India post-independence. Here in India, she's now a leading doctor but she cannot forget her past and love for her native place. However, she tries to build her life with her children in Patna until the Ram Mandir riots take place. Determined not to succumb to these riots she decides to combat these situations boldly.
The patriotism of the protagonist is described so purely here. It is a well-researched novel and the author has merged facts and fiction vividly.
The story is described through third-person POV. The language of the book is lucid but the involvement of too many characters was very confusing for me. It got boring in the middle but the twists and turns made this book an unputdownable one. The riots have been described well that at few places you'll get goosebumps. I hate Hindu-Muslim controversies and the incidences written here had me seething with anger. It made me realize that life during a war break out or riot break out is not just threatening to our lives but it destroys a person emotionally.
I will recommend this book to people who like historical fiction or want to know more about the partition of India.
The patriotism of the protagonist is described so purely here. It is a well-researched novel and the author has merged facts and fiction vividly.
The story is described through third-person POV. The language of the book is lucid but the involvement of too many characters was very confusing for me. It got boring in the middle but the twists and turns made this book an unputdownable one. The riots have been described well that at few places you'll get goosebumps. I hate Hindu-Muslim controversies and the incidences written here had me seething with anger. It made me realize that life during a war break out or riot break out is not just threatening to our lives but it destroys a person emotionally.
I will recommend this book to people who like historical fiction or want to know more about the partition of India.
March 1, 2021
Everything and Nothing~ Nilotpal Dutta
This book is based on post independence time and is a very fascinating history fiction.
Damyanti is born and brought up in Dacca (Dhaka, Bangladesh) and had a very remarkable childhood.
The plot is mainly set in the backdrop of Dhaka, Noakhali, Calcutta and Patna.
The various characters and experiences make Damyanti have a larger perspective.
Through Damyanti, the author portrays the struggles of the subcontinent. The narration goes back to past and the present date.
Throughout the stort you read heart-wrenching events that leave you speechless. It has history, a story of woman her perspective, ecperiences, different events altogether a whole package of different emotions.
Being a Bengali myself, this book connected a lot and struggles and history of Bengal, Indian post Independence.
The title is so accurate but the cover doesn't connect much to the story.
It was a very relatable, emotional and interesting read. Personally because I like to read stories that contain history and about a Life story through someone's perspective and narration.
Also the characters are very well developed accompanied by lucid language that's easily understandable.
Hands down to the research that Author has done to write this book.
This book is based on post independence time and is a very fascinating history fiction.
Damyanti is born and brought up in Dacca (Dhaka, Bangladesh) and had a very remarkable childhood.
The plot is mainly set in the backdrop of Dhaka, Noakhali, Calcutta and Patna.
The various characters and experiences make Damyanti have a larger perspective.
Through Damyanti, the author portrays the struggles of the subcontinent. The narration goes back to past and the present date.
Throughout the stort you read heart-wrenching events that leave you speechless. It has history, a story of woman her perspective, ecperiences, different events altogether a whole package of different emotions.
Being a Bengali myself, this book connected a lot and struggles and history of Bengal, Indian post Independence.
The title is so accurate but the cover doesn't connect much to the story.
It was a very relatable, emotional and interesting read. Personally because I like to read stories that contain history and about a Life story through someone's perspective and narration.
Also the characters are very well developed accompanied by lucid language that's easily understandable.
Hands down to the research that Author has done to write this book.
February 27, 2021
Everything and Nothing
by Nilotpal Kumar Dutta
The book talks about Indian societal norms and issues in the most dominant of ways with a perspective on violence, hardwork, ideologies and most importantly its core - core of a pride nation with its spellbound indomitable courage and strength through the eyes of the protagonist - Damyanti.
The narration is creatively enhancing given the fact that a fact based stories of things is hard to research and then preserve as a book. It is a page turner even if it's the past that lurks around future if not taken care of.
The quality of triggers coats this book with a glaze of soothe and calm. The text, while reading, makes you visualize the interplay of events unfolding before your eyes. You see it all: love, redemption, calamity, liberation, enlightenment and realities of life.
This is a kind of book every serious reader should pick up. It was an exciting journey reading this, and who doesn’t love insightful story with uniquely engraved values. Much more important than reading the book, are the values that you carry with you henceforth. These are ordinary tales of extraordinary acts of bravery, wisdom and loss which definitely deserves a read.
by Nilotpal Kumar Dutta
The book talks about Indian societal norms and issues in the most dominant of ways with a perspective on violence, hardwork, ideologies and most importantly its core - core of a pride nation with its spellbound indomitable courage and strength through the eyes of the protagonist - Damyanti.
The narration is creatively enhancing given the fact that a fact based stories of things is hard to research and then preserve as a book. It is a page turner even if it's the past that lurks around future if not taken care of.
The quality of triggers coats this book with a glaze of soothe and calm. The text, while reading, makes you visualize the interplay of events unfolding before your eyes. You see it all: love, redemption, calamity, liberation, enlightenment and realities of life.
This is a kind of book every serious reader should pick up. It was an exciting journey reading this, and who doesn’t love insightful story with uniquely engraved values. Much more important than reading the book, are the values that you carry with you henceforth. These are ordinary tales of extraordinary acts of bravery, wisdom and loss which definitely deserves a read.
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