Horrors Next Door, author Prasun Roy’s most recent book, was launched at Starmark amid literary curiosity and thoughtful conversation. Readers, authors, book lovers, and fans of mystery and horror literature flocked to the event with great enthusiasm.

Rabindranath Tagore’s collection of eight short stories, Horrors Next Door, was first written in Bengali and then translated into English by Prasun Roy. Through a contemplative and emotionally nuanced lens, the book revisits Tagore’s eerie stories, presenting them as profound investigations of identity, fear, memory, and the metaphysical aspects of human existence rather than just supernatural tales. The translation aims to expose modern readers to the genius of Tagore’s storytelling while maintaining the emotional and cultural core of the original works.

Dr. Julie Mehta moderated an interesting panel discussion that evening. Her astute guidance led the discussion with clarity and depth. Ashoke Viswanathan, Dr. Sanjukta Dasgupta, and Sudeshna Roy joined her on the panel. The panel discussed the psychological resonance that Tagore’s stories continue to have for contemporary audiences, the continuing relevance of short fiction, and the development of horror and mystery in modern literature.

Chief guest Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, a renowned National Award-winning filmmaker, elevated the occasion even more with his participation. His thoughts on narrative, cinematic interpretation, and emotional realism enhanced the conversation and struck a deep chord with the audience.

When discussing the book’s inspiration, Prasun Roy highlighted the value of translation as a literary link between generations and cultures. He spoke fervently about the need to make the original Bengali stories accessible to a larger audience while maintaining their spirit, texture, and linguistic subtleties.

During the session, Roy said, “Tagore’s works are part of a living legacy.” Readers of all languages and ages should be able to experience them. I have made an effort to preserve the authenticity of the original stories, particularly the linguistic nuances and emotional undertones that characterize Tagore’s writing”.

Similar opinions were expressed by the panelists, emphasizing how horror is a genre that goes well beyond amusement. They noted that Tagore’s stories frequently combine the bizarre, the psychological, and the paranormal to produce terrifying and profoundly reflective tales. The conversation examined how modern readers are drawn more and more to horror stories that depict existential uncertainty, emotional struggle, and unspoken human fears.

The event, which was coordinated by AHAVA Communications and the AHAVA Readers’ and Writers’ Club, demonstrated a common dedication to advancing literary culture and fostering insightful discussions about literature, storytelling, and translation.

Participants left the event with a fresh appreciation for Tagore’s literary brilliance and the transformational potential of translation as it ended on a reflective and uplifting note.

Priyanka Dutta