Mrinalini
A Historical Romance of 13th Century Bengal
by Bankim Chandra ChattopadhyayAbout This Book
Set against the vibrant backdrop of 13th-century Bengal, Mrinalini by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay is a sweeping historical romance where love, loyalty, and fate collide. Amidst political upheaval and cultural crossroads, the noble Mrinalini finds herself entangled in a web of intrigue—caught between her heart’s desires and the demands of honor. Unforgettable characters, secret alliances, and lush descriptions lead readers through palatial courts, shadowy conspiracies, and moments of breathtaking tenderness. As destinies entwine beneath monsoon skies, this classic Bengali novel explores the timeless struggle between personal longing and duty, illuminating the enduring spirit of love in turbulent times.
Characters
Hemchandra
A young prince and warrior, son of a deposed king of Magadha, determined to reclaim his father's kingdom from the Yavana invaders.
Mrinalini
A woman deeply loved by Hemchandra, whose whereabouts are kept secret by Madhavacharya to prevent her from distracting Hemchandra from his duties.
Girijaya
A sixteen-year-old beggar girl with a melodious voice who sings for alms and converses with Mrinalini.
Madhavacharya
A revered Brahmin and spiritual teacher (Acharya), mentor to Hemchandra, who guides him in both religious and political matters.
Pashupati
The chief minister of religion and religious authority in the court, often engaged in discussions about state and spiritual matters.
Manoroma
A young woman, described as beautiful and gentle, who is the granddaughter of Janardana and helps communicate with him.
About the Author
1838–1894
Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay (1838–1894) was a pioneering Bengali writer, poet, and novelist whose work laid the foundation for modern Bengali literature. Educated at Presidency College in Kolkata, he was one of the first graduates of the University of Calcutta and served for many years as a government official. With his literary debut in the 1860s, Chattopadhyay quickly emerged as a formidable force in Indian letters, blending narrative artistry with a strong sense of cultural and national identity.
Preview
One day at the holy confluence of Prayaga, where the Ganga and Yamuna meet, the unparalleled beauty of a monsoon evening was being revealed. It was the rainy season, yet there were no clouds; or if there were any, they lingered in the western sky like golden waves. The sun had already set. Swollen with the rains, both the Ganga and the Yamuna were in full spate, intoxicated in the fullness of their youth, as if two sisters were embracing each other in playful affection. Like the fluttering hem of a restless garment, the waves, driven by the wind, lashed against the shore. In a small boat were only two boatmen. With reckless courage, the boat braved the indomitable current of the Yamuna and, at last, reached the ghat of Prayaga. One remained in the boat, the other stepped ashore. The one who landed was in the bloom of youth, with a strong, well-built body, clad in the attire of a warrior. A turban adorned his head, armor covered his body, a bow and arrows were in his hand, a quiver slung across his back, and sandals on his feet. This heroic figure was exceedingly handsome. Above the ghat, there were several hermitages belonging to ascetics who had renounced the world in their quest for virtue. Among them, the young man entered a small hut. Inside the hut, a Brahmin was seated on a mat of sacred grass, engaged in prayer. The Brahmin was a man of great height; his body was lean; a white beard adorned his broad, oval face; on his forehead and sparse hair at the crown, a faint trace of holy ash was visible. The Brahmin’s countenance was grave, and his glance severe; at first sight, one might not have thought him cruel or unworthy of reverence, yet he inspired awe. The moment he saw the visitor, the sternness seemed to melt away, and a gentle grace suffused the gravity of his face. The visitor addressed the Brahmin— He bowed in salutation and stood before him. The Brahmin, blessing him, said, “Child Hemchandra, I have been awaiting you for many days.” Hemchandra replied humbly, “Pray do not take offense, my business in Delhi was not accomplished. Moreover, the Yavan was pursuing me; for this reason, I had to proceed with caution. Thus, I have been delayed.” The Brahmin said, “I have heard all the tidings from Delhi. Had you slain Bakhtiyar Khilji with the elephant, it would have been well—the enemy of the gods would have perished by the hand of a beast. Why did you go to save his life?” Hemchandra: To slay him in battle with my own hand. He is my father’s enemy, the usurper of my father’s kingdom. He is mine to kill. Brahmin: Then when the elephant, enraged, attacked him, why did you slay the elephant instead of Bakhtiyar? Hemchandra: Shall I kill my enemy like a thief, without battle? I shall defeat the conqueror of Magadha in war and reclaim
Places and Terms in this Book
Yavana— A historical term used in India to refer to foreign invaders, especially Greeks and later Muslims such as the Turks.
Gauda— A historical region and city in Bengal, which was a major political and cultural center.
Navadwip— A town in Bengal, known as a center of learning and religious activity.
Mathura— A sacred city in northern India, associated with the Hindu god Krishna.
Ganges— A sacred river in India, considered holy in Hinduism and significant in Bengali culture.
Yamuna— A major river in northern India, also considered sacred in Hindu tradition.
Vocabulary
Brahmin— A member of the priestly caste in Hindu society, traditionally responsible for religious rituals and teaching.
Acharya— A title for a learned teacher or spiritual preceptor, especially in Hindu tradition.
guru— A spiritual teacher or guide in Indian tradition.
alms— Charitable gifts, usually food or money, given to the poor or beggars.
Brahmani— The wife of a Brahmin, or sometimes used to refer to a woman of the Brahmin caste.
royal road— A main or principal road, often referring to a major highway used by royalty or armies.