Author Debasis Bhaumik’s fourth book, titled First Day At Work, was unveiled at Oxford Bookstore, Park Street.

His earlier three works include Leadership 4.0, Let’s Do It Right —a book about Diversity and Equity, and Amour —Being in Life.

It was graced by independent filmmaker and writer Debarati Gupta, eminent artist Bijoylakshmi Barman, and poet and scholar Samragnee Bandyopadhyay.

The writer who lives abroad could not come to the book launch physically. However, he graced the event via a video call.

The book delves into the life of an Indian woman who was born in India a month before India’s independence and her journey over almost eight decades. The book shows the efforts to go against the norm, her submissions, her acceptances, and her wins in life.

Bhaumik has authored books in different genres. The main focus of this book is the practicality. He drew from his own experience and reflection on life to write this book.

The writer, during the launch, said that Uma was a representation of the millions of women globally who have defied societal norms and forged new paths for themselves. The book urges readers to question the existing societal norms and whether true progress is being made. It also stresses the fact that one has to challenge societal norms to bring forth changes.

Speaking at the event, Debarati Gupta said, “I broke societal norms in different ways throughout my life. When I thought of making films, I knew I would be very busy. Hence, my husband and I decided not to have kids. This was much criticized by friends and relatives as we went against the existing norms. But we are happy with our decision”.

Bijoylakshmi Barman said that society expects women, and especially married women, to behave and work in a certain way. If you deviate from that norm, you will be criticized.

Grab your copy now.

Priyanka Dutta