Rajani is a novel by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay that explores the themes of love, marriage and societal norms prevalent in 19th century Bengal. The story revolves around the central character, Rajani, who is a young woman from a wealthy family.
Rajani’s father arranges her marriage to a wealthy businessman, but she falls in love with a poor student named Madhusudan. The novel delves into the complications of this forbidden love, as Rajani struggles to reconcile her own desires with the expectations of her family and society.
Throughout the novel, Chattopadhyay offers a critique of the rigid social conventions of his time. He portrays the characters as complex individuals who are torn between their personal desires and the pressures of societal expectations. He also highlights the oppressive nature of patriarchal structures, which restrict the freedom and choices of women.
In addition to its commentary on societal norms, Rajani is also notable for its portrayal of female characters. Chattopadhyay creates nuanced, multifaceted characters like Rajani and her sister-in-law, who are both strong-willed and capable of making their own decisions.
Overall, Rajani is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that offers a glimpse into the complexities of love, marriage and societal expectations in 19th century Bengal. It remains an important work in Bengali literature and a testament to Chattopadhyay’s skill as a writer.
Books Info
| Books name | Rajani |
| Author | Bankim Chandra Chatopadhyaya |
| No Of pages | 112 |
| Publisher | Shri Prakashani |
| Publication | 1981 |
| Printed At | NA |
| Distributor | NA |
