Super Short Summary

The Fakir by Sunil Gangopadhyay, translated by Monabi Mitra, chronicles the life of 19th-century saint and songwriter Lalan Fakir. Initially known as Lal Mohan Kar, he is adopted by a Muslim woman after suffering from smallpox and losing his memory. Evolving into an advocate for universal spirituality, Lalan founds an inclusive community that challenges social and religious hierarchies. This novel contains depictions of illness and social ostracism.