Book Review: The Refugee by Nikhil Khasnabish

The cover page of the book is not only meaningful but also tells a narrative that unfolds inside the pages. In true sense, ‘The Refugee’ by Nikhil Khasnabish is a poignant tale that resonates with immigrants coming to India, the novel takes a look at under what circumstances they come, and yet their search for their native motherland and family members keep haunting them.

Gunen Sarkar is the lead character of the novel. A poor farmer kind of guy living in a village in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), with his wife Meghna, and a small son. Right since the novel the tension builds, as Gunen belongs to Hindu minority in that country which is dominated by Muslims. In search of his cow and then coming in touch with gypsies his life takes downward turns. But little did he know soon a riot will upend his life in a most harrowing way. As a result, they are forced to flee towards India. As while crossing the river journey, Gunen’s life takes a throwback of memories and unwanted events that followed. He has strong attachment to his native land, village people, and that dog that dies in the river. Heartfelt and heartbreaking – forced separation of people brings pain and misery that remains unhealed all life. So was the case with Gunen.

Gunen and his family is separated while crossing a dense jungle, some robbers rob them of almost everything…like money, family…The author painfully describes the pain that ensues when one leaves country in search of hope and safety. It marks the contrasting reality that eludes us through mainstream media. How a refugee is treated and looked down in a new place, with all struggles from the scratch makes up much part of the narrative.

Gunen though starts a new life, makes money, and buys land…but the pain of not having a family haunts him like a demon. And then the author introduces NRC in Assam. Gunen lands up in trouble again, he has no valid documents and legacy data. How will he handle that situation? Will he be able to unite with his family? How will he locate his family after decades of separation?

Nikhil’s writing is rich and evocative, seamlessly blending drama with the plight of a refugee’s life. He, in optimum light, highlights the struggles and pain of life that is marked by separation, partition, political instability, and resilience of the soul that defies all odds. Overall, the novel is a good read and sheds the different side of laws like NRC in India.

The book is available at online retail stores like Amazon and Kindle.

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