Tamas by Bhisham Sahni

About the Book:

Tamas, whether in Daisy Rockwell's masterful translation or its original Hindi, remains a timeless and essential read. Set in a city in undivided Punjab, the story begins when Nathu, a tanner, is bribed to kill a pig. The carcass, discovered on the steps of a local mosque, ignites simmering tensions, leading to an eruption of communal violence. Amidst this chaos, the novel uncovers rare moments of unexpected friendship and love, shining through the darkness. A Sahitya Akademi Award-winning masterpiece, Tamas offers multiple perspectives on the Partition of India, bringing the tragic yet powerful narrative to life.

Why You Should Read Tamas

1. Prophetic Relevance: The novel serves as a prophetic warning against the exploitation of religion for political power, making it deeply relevant in today’s world.

2. Rich Historical Perspective: It offers an intimate portrayal of the Partition's horrors, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of history.

3. Human Spirit Amidst Darkness: Despite depicting violence and hatred, it beautifully highlights moments of humanity, compassion, and unexpected friendships.

4. Timeless Literary Value: Recognised with the Sahitya Akademi Award, its literary brilliance and powerful narrative continue to resonate with generations.

5. Universal Message: At its core, Tamas drives home an enduring truth—ordinary people simply yearn to live in peace.

Experience this iconic tale of resilience, conflict, and humanity in its vivid, definitive translation by Daisy Rockwell.