Novel 'Radha' Unveiled at Bhubaneswar Book Fair

Bhubaneswar, Dec 16:(Krushna Kumar Mohanty) The much-awaited novel Radha, written by noted storyteller Uday Narayan Das, was unveiled on Tuesday evening at the Bhubaneswar Book Fair, held at B2, Stalls 5 and 6.

The book unveiling ceremony was attended by eminent literary personalities including bilingual writer and Dhauli Books founder Manu Dash, story writer Sahadev Sahoo, poet Surya Mishra, and lyricist Dr Rajani Ranjan. The programme was presided over by publisher and poet Samarendranath Mahapatra.

Published by Shraddha Publications, Radha marks Uday Narayan Das’s significant transition from short story writing to novel writing and is considered the result of his longest and most dedicated creative effort.

Speaking on the occasion, speakers noted that while mythology has been explored in various ways in Odia literature, the author has gone beyond mere retelling. In Radha, myth is reimagined and reconstructed, blending reality and imagination. The novel introduces several narrative elements not found in the Puranas, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar legend.

The novel presents Radha as the source of an eternal, transcendental love, portraying her as inseparable from Krishna and as the foundation of his spiritual strength. Characters such as Putana, Kubja, Uddhava, and Akrura add narrative depth and act as strong supporting pillars of the story. The roles of Lalita, Vishakha, Chandra, and other companions are also portrayed with prominence.

A vivid depiction of the grand Raas Leela in Vrindavan forms a key highlight of the novel, where Krishna is shown appearing in multiple forms to fulfil the desires of the gopis.

With its elegant, lustrous cover and richness of thought, Radha is expected to emerge as a significant addition to contemporary Odia fiction.