Harbart
Harbart
Book Brief
Beta147
Novel • Fiction
Kolkata, India • 1990s
2011
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Harbart by Nabarun Bhattacharya follows a man named Harbart Sarkar, who navigates life in Kolkata after a series of personal losses. Living with his extended family, Harbart discovers an unexpected calling as a medium, communicating with the dead. His newfound practice brings him both attention and conflict, shaping his journey in unique and eerie ways.
Dark
Mysterious
Melancholic
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
668 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Harbart by Nabarun Bhattacharya is praised for its vivid storytelling and profound exploration of existential themes. The novel's unique narrative style and dark humor captivate readers. However, some find the fragmented structure challenging. Its infusion of Bengali culture adds depth, yet it may be less accessible to those unfamiliar with the backdrop.
Who Should Read Harbart?
A reader who would enjoy Nabarun Bhattacharya's Harbart likely appreciates dark humor, existential themes, and gritty urban settings. Fans of Kafka's The Metamorphosis or Murakami's Kafka on the Shore may find this novel compelling for its exploration of absurdity and life's meaning.
668 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Harbart, written by Nabarun Bhattacharya, is celebrated for its unique narrative style and has cemented its place as a cult classic in Bengali literature, particularly among younger audiences.
The book was adapted into a film by director Suman Mukhopadhyay, adding a cinematic dimension to its reach and contributing to its legacy in Indian contemporary culture.
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Nabarun Bhattacharya, known for his radical and progressive ideas, explored themes of marginalization and existential angst in Harbart, making it a significant work in exploring the human condition.
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147
Novel • Fiction
Kolkata, India • 1990s
2011
Adult
18+ years
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