Chronicles of the Lost Daughters is a historical epic by Debarati Mukhopadhyay that tells the story of the abuse of women in 19th century Bengal. The novel follows the lives of three women: Bhubonmoni, a young widow who is forced to flee her village after being raped; Kadombini Gangopadhyay, one of the first Indian women to become a practicing doctor; and Nobokishore Dutta, a wealthy businessman who traffics in women.
The novel is set against the backdrop of the British Raj, and it explores the ways in which colonialism exacerbated the oppression of women in Bengal. Mukhopadhyay's writing is both lyrical and powerful, and she does not shy away from depicting the violence and degradation that women faced during this time.
Bhubonmoni's Story
The novel opens with Bhubonmoni, a young widow who is forced to flee her village after being raped. She travels to Calcutta with her brother, Krishnoshundor, and his family, who have been tricked into indentured servitude by a slave trader. Bhubonmoni is determined to escape her fate, and she eventually finds refuge with Kadombini Gangopadhyay, a doctor who is fighting for the rights of women.
Kadombini Gangopadhyay's Story
Kadombini Gangopadhyay is a trailblazing woman who is determined to improve the lives of women in India. She is the first Indian woman to become a practicing doctor, and she opens a clinic in Calcutta where she treats women and children. Kadombini is also a vocal advocate for women's rights, and she speaks out against the social and economic injustice that women face.
Nobokishore Dutta's Story
Nobokishore Dutta is a wealthy businessman who traffics in women. He believes that women are inferior to men, and he sees them as commodities that can be bought and sold. Nobokishore is a ruthless and exploitative man, and he has no qualms about using violence to get what he wants.
The Three Women's Stories Converge
The stories of Bhubonmoni, Kadombini, and Nobokishore eventually converge, and the three women find themselves on a collision course. Bhubonmoni is determined to escape her fate, Kadombini is fighting for the rights of women, and Nobokishore is determined to maintain his power.
The End of the Story
The novel ends with a bittersweet resolution. Bhubonmoni is able to escape her fate, but she is left with the scars of her experience. Kadombini Gangopadhyay continues to fight for the rights of women, and she makes significant progress. Nobokishore Dutta is eventually brought to justice, but the damage he has done to women is irreparable.
About the Author
Debarati Mukhopadhyay is one of the most popular authors of contemporary Bengali literature. A young government officer by profession, she has written more than twenty bestselling novels including Narach, Dakatraja, Glanirbhabati Bharat, Shikhandi, Ishwar Jakhan Bandi, and Aghore Ghimiye Shiva.
Her corporate-world novel Dasgupta Travels was shortlisted for the Sahitya Akademi Yuva Pursakar in 2021. Many of her novels, such as, Narak Sanket, Ranrkahini, and Shikhandi have been adapted for the silver screen. Debarati is a prolific writer and contributes regularly to Bengal's prominent literary magazines and journals.
As an officer, bestselling author, travel-enthusiast, amateur violinist and mother to an infant, Debarati is considered a youth icon. She volunteers her time to guide government-job aspirants. A widely recognized public speaker, Debarati can be often found delivering motivational talks at educational seminars, conferences and at the halls of at the halls of spiritual institutions.
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