Gopinath Mohanty (1914–1991)

Mohanty (died 1991) won both the Jnanpith and was the first-ever winner of the National Sahitya Akademi Award. He is a celebrated author writing in Oriya (aka Odia), the official language of the state of Orissa (aka Odisha)—along India’s north eastern coast. This is one of a few of his many books translated into English and it deals with the life and customs of an indigenous tribe and the farmer’s attachment to the land. In many ways, the story (written in 1945) is about the clash between modern and traditional practices and the narrative follows the change—indeed, the disintegration—of one family. And yet, for all the author’s dissatisfaction with the price paid for change, it is clear-eyed and condemns much about tradition-bound society as well. It’s well-translated, powerful and moving, and well worth the time, if you can find it. I know I’ll be on the lookout for more of his work.… (mer)