New← The Complete Adventures of Byomkesh Bakshi
The Crooked Circle
A Mysterious Illness and a Deadly Secret
by Sharadindu BandyopadhyayDetective FictionMystery
Dushtochokro (দুষ্টচক্র)
Originally in Bengali1963
31 pages34 min read
Share
About This Book
When a desperate doctor begs for Byomkesh Bakshi’s help with a gravely ill patient, the renowned detective’s curiosity is piqued by the strange request and the shadows lurking behind it. What begins as a medical mystery soon hints at something far more sinister. Step into a world of intrigue where every answer only leads to more questions.
Characters
View all 8 charactersAbout the Author
Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay
1899–1970
Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay (1899–1970) was a celebrated Bengali author, best known for his enduring contribution to Indian detective fiction. Born in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, Bandyopadhyay was educated at Vidyasagar College and later at Patna University. He initially worked as a teacher and a scriptwriter for the Bombay film industry, but his literary pursuits remained central throughout his life. His prolific career spanned several genres including historical fiction, short stories, and plays, but he achieved lasting fame for his creation of the detective Byomkesh Bakshi. Bandyopadhyay’s works reflect a deep engagement with the social and cultural life of early- to mid-20th-century Bengal.
Places and Terms in this Book
Amherst Street— A well-known street in Calcutta, serving as a key location in the narrative.
Calcutta— The former name of Kolkata, the city where the story is set.
Dustu Chakra— Bengali for 'Wicked Plan', the title of the chapter.
Gurkha— A member of a Nepalese ethnic group, often employed as security guards in India for their reputation of bravery.
Marwaris— An Indian ethnic group traditionally known for their business acumen, referenced in the context of moneylending.
reserve bank— Refers to the Reserve Bank of India, the country's central banking institution.
Vocabulary
compounder— A medical assistant who prepares and dispenses medicines in a doctor's dispensary.
dewan— A long, backless couch or mattress commonly used for lounging in Indian homes.
gaddi— A low mattress or seat used by traders or moneylenders in their offices, especially among Marwaris.
