Mahanayak (novel)

Mahanayak is a historical novel written by Bengali author, Bishnu Dey. It fictionalizes the life and times of Sisir Kumar Bhaduri, a towering figure in 20th-century Bengali theatre. The novel delves into Bhaduri's personal and professional life, exploring his artistic genius, his struggles, his relationships, and the socio-political context that shaped his career. While drawing inspiration from Bhaduri's actual biography, Mahanayak is ultimately a work of fiction, with Dey employing literary license to interpret and reimagine the events and emotions of his subject's life. The novel is noted for its intricate narrative structure, its rich characterization, and its insightful commentary on the world of theatre and the human condition. It is considered a significant contribution to Bengali literature.