My fascination with a certain revered Bengali leader and freedom fighter began in the early 1980s, when my father was posted in Kolkata. Even as a child, I sensed the weight of his legacy in the very air of the city—the whispers of his courage, the stories spoken with pride, and the unmistakable reverence with which people uttered his name. He needs no introduction, and perhaps that is why I chose not to mention his name directly in my story. Keeping it unsaid felt like a gesture of respect, a quiet salute to a titan whose impact transcends words.
Yet, I could not resist drawing from his extraordinary persona to inspire my protagonist. The determination, the charisma, the audacity to dream of a free nation—these qualities shaped the backbone of my character. I wanted today’s generation to feel the same intrigue and admiration that once stirred my imagination. The descriptions, locations, and dates embedded in the story should be enough for readers to recognise the spirit who stands behind the scenes, guiding the narrative like a silent guardian.
And so, The Phantom of Freedom was born—my latest novella that blends history, inspiration, and fiction into a journey of courage and discovery.
Chapter 1 is now live, and the book is available for free on Inkitt.
I invite you to read it, share your thoughts, and join me in honouring a legend whose influence continues to echo through generations.
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