Draft:Avik Sarkar

Avik Sarkar
Born	Avik Sarkar (1979-06-01) June 1, 1979 Howrah, West Bengal, India.
Occupation	Novelist
Alma mater	Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (PGDM)
Genre	Horror, Thriller, Adventure, Mystery, Mythology
Notable works	Patamanjari Inquisition Bhog Mahadebi Ray Baghini Kauri Burir Mandir Kakchokkhu Purba Paschim Dakshin
Notable awards	Anish Deb Smriti Puraskar (2025)
Spouse	Sanghamitra Sarkar (m. 2005)
Signature
Website
aviksarkar.in

Avik Sarkar (Bengali: অভীক সরকার; born June 1, 1979) is an Indian novelist who writes in the Bengali language. He is known for his versatile body of work spanning horror, thriller, historical fiction, detective fiction, and satire. Sarkar’s novels often blend themes of the supernatural, Bengali folklore, and historical events, and several of his books have become regional bestsellers.

His 2018 book Ebong Inquisition (“And Inquisition”) – a collection of paranormal tales – gained critical acclaim and was later adapted into a Bengali thriller film in 2019. In 2025, his short story Bhog was adapted into a web series directed by Parambrata Chattopadhyay, further cementing Sarkar’s prominence in contemporary Bengali literature.

Early life

Avik Sarkar was born in Kolkata, India, on June 1, 1979, and spent his formative years in West Bengal. His father, Amal Kumar Sarkar, was a small business owner, while his mother, Tapati Sarkar, worked as a school teacher. Encouraged by an environment that valued both discipline and creativity, Sarkar excelled academically.

He earned an engineering degree from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur and later completed his post-graduate MBA at the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta. These educational foundations in science and management helped shape the multidisciplinary elements present in his literary work, which often weaves together logic, philosophy, and narrative suspense.

Following his formal education, Sarkar pursued a corporate career. By the mid-2010s, he held senior positions in multinational companies and eventually became the General Manager at Gulf Oil India. Despite the demanding nature of his profession, Sarkar continued to cultivate his passion for storytelling, writing fiction alongside his corporate responsibilities. His unique blend of professional discipline and literary ambition laid the foundation for a body of work that bridges the boundaries between the supernatural and the rational.

Career as a novelist

Sarkar began writing fiction around 2015, contributing short stories, satirical essays, and literary commentary to Bengali blogs and magazines. His debut book, Ebong Market Visit, was a collection of witty and humorous essays about everyday life, social dynamics, and relationships. The book established his sharp voice and talent for humor.

Horror and occult thrillers

Sarkar soon moved into genre fiction, becoming best known for his horror and occult thrillers. His breakthrough came with Ebong Inquisition (Deep Prakashan, 2018), a collection of interconnected supernatural stories centered on Krishnananda Agamavagisha, a fictionalized version of a 16th-century tantric scholar. Sarkar reimagined him as a time-traveling "paranormal sleuth" investigating curses, black magic, and reincarnation. The book explored philosophical and metaphysical conflicts between light and darkness and was praised for blending history with myth and mystery. In 2019, it was adapted into the Bengali anthology film Purba Paschim Dakshin by director Raajhorshee De.

He continued the theme with Khora Bhairabir Maath (Patra Bharati, 2019), an anthology of two novellas—Kaliya Masan and Khōṛā Bhairabīr Māṭh—exploring rural occult legends and folk horror. In Petbotthu (Patra Bharati, 2020), he fused tantric mysticism with quantum physics and espionage, presenting a plot involving Tibetan lore and time manipulation.

Historical fiction

Sarkar has also authored acclaimed historical novels. Raybaghini (Patra Bharati, 2023) recounts the story of medieval queen Bhavashankari, highlighting themes of power, resistance, and gender. Mahadebi (Patra Bharati, 2022) is set in the Gupta Empire, combining romance and political drama. Both novels were praised for their immersive settings and historically grounded storytelling.

He also wrote Chakrasambarer Punthi, based on the life of Atisha Dipankara, and Patamanjari, an epic saga set in early medieval Bengal about rebellion and societal upheaval.

Detective and mystery fiction

In the detective genre, Sarkar introduced Professor Chintaharan Mukherjee, a witty marketing professor-turned-investigator. This character stars in Panchti Rahasya Upanyas (Patra Bharati, 2021), a collection of five detective novellas such as Baren Mazumder Hatya Rahasya. Professor Mukherjee uses deductive reasoning and psychological insight rather than brute force, offering a fresh take on the Bengali sleuth archetype.

Other genres and adaptations

Sarkar has also written for younger readers. His novella Princess (Briti, 2022), about a quirky father-daughter relationship, showcases his range and ability to shift from dark thrillers to lighthearted narratives.

By 2025, Sarkar had authored 18 books across multiple genres. His ability to shift between horror, history, satire, and detective fiction has made him a versatile and unique figure in Bengali contemporary literature.

Notably, his short story Bhog (originally published in the collection Ebong Inquisition) was adapted into a web series titled Bhog in 2025, directed by Parambrata Chattopadhyay and released on Hoichoi. The series starred Anirban Bhattacharya and Parno Mittra, and was noted for its haunting narrative exploring Tantra, spiritual fervor, and psychological horror.

In 2025, Sarkar received the Anish Deb Memorial Award from Kishore Bharati magazine for his contribution to modern Bengali horror writing.

Writing style and themes

Sarkar’s writing is characterized by its imaginative fusion of genres and its deep grounding in Bengali culture and lore. In the horror and thriller domain, he often blends religious mysticism with modern science and psychology, creating what some critics have termed “spiritual thrillers.” Recurring motifs in his supernatural fiction include Tantra (especially esoteric Shakta rituals), curses, ghosts, and reincarnation. These elements serve not merely as plot devices but as metaphors for fear, moral ambiguity, and spiritual decay. His story Petbotthu, for example, merges Tibetan tantric mythology with concepts from quantum physics, while Bhog explores the psychological tension between devotion and madness.

Critics have noted that Sarkar’s horror fiction avoids typical genre tropes like jump-scares, opting instead for atmospheric dread, forgotten rituals, and layered mythological subtext. His stories are often set against detailed historical or rural Bengali backdrops, giving realism and depth to their supernatural aspects.

In his historical fiction, Sarkar’s style becomes richly descriptive and research-intensive. He frequently writes about resilient, complex protagonists—often queens, rebels, or reformers—set within epic historical narratives. Books such as Raybaghini and Mahadebi celebrate forgotten or fictional heroines like Maharani Bhavashankari, blending factual history with dramatic flair. Sarkar sometimes incorporates historical figures such as the Tantric scholar Krishnananda Agamavagisha, layering legend into narrative.

His detective fiction, by contrast, employs a lighter, more cerebral tone. The character of Professor Chintaharan Mukherjee—an eccentric marketing professor turned amateur sleuth—solves mysteries using logic, intuition, and humor. Sarkar subverts the detective genre by replacing action with deduction, and suspense with satire, offering what readers describe as “whodunits with wit.”

Across all genres, Sarkar’s prose tends to be fast-paced and plot-driven, favoring suspense and narrative economy. He frequently employs framing devices—for instance, the recurring character Bhavataran Chatterjee, a storyteller figure who appears in multiple occult stories as a folk-style narrator.

Sarkar cites Bengali folk literature, classic horror, and earlier Bengali authors as major influences. In particular, his work draws comparisons to Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay’s Taranath Tantrik stories for occult themes, and Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay for humor and satirical undertones. In a 2023 interview, Sarkar remarked, “100 pages must be read before one can write a single page,” reflecting his belief in wide reading as the basis for good writing.

Reviewers have praised his ability to merge suspense with deeper philosophical concerns. As one literary profile summarized, “Sarkar takes readers on a unique literary journey with his sharp satire, ironic humor, and stark portrayal of reality,” making even fantastical tales feel relevant and emotionally resonant.

Awards and recognition

• **Anish Deb Smriti Puraskar (2025)** – Awarded by *Kishore Bharati* for outstanding contribution to Bengali genre fiction, especially horror and occult literature.
• **Kachi Pata Sahitya Samman (2022)** – Felicitation for Sarkar’s literary impact in contemporary Bengali fiction, organized by the publication *Pata*.
• **Apeejay Bangla Sahitya Utsav Honour (2019)** – Part of the prestigious Kolkata literary circuit honouring contemporary authors.

(*Note: Some dates are in Bengali calendar and may align approximately with 2019–2025 in Gregorian years*)

Avik Sarkar’s contributions to Bengali literature, particularly in the horror and speculative fiction genres, have earned him widespread recognition. In 2025, he was awarded the **Anish Deb Smriti Puraskar** (Anish Deb Memorial Award), presented by the Bengali magazine *Kishore Bharati*. Named in honor of the late science fiction author Anish Deb, the award acknowledged Sarkar’s significant impact on Bengali genre fiction. The award was presented by renowned author Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay, marking Sarkar’s growing esteem among senior literary figures in Bengal.

Earlier, in 2018, Sarkar reportedly received a "Best Novel" prize at the Kolkata Book Fair for Ebong Inquisition, a work that many credit with catapulting him to fame in the Bengali horror scene. The novel was later adapted into the critically noted anthology film *Purbo Poschim Dokkhin Uttor Ashbei*, further cementing its legacy.

Sarkar’s works have regularly appeared on Bengali bestseller lists, and several titles have gone through multiple reprints due to sustained reader demand. His ability to combine myth, science, and suspense has earned praise from both readers and critics. He is frequently credited with reviving and redefining Bengali horror literature in the 21st century. Fan discussions and literary profiles alike have referred to him as “one of the torchbearers of modern Bengali horror fiction.”

The 2025 streaming adaptation of his story Bhog—produced as a web series on Hoichoi and directed by Parambrata Chattopadhyay—was marketed as a landmark event for Bengali horror audiences. The series received critical acclaim for its eerie atmosphere and fidelity to Sarkar’s original story.

Sarkar is also a regular presence in the Bengali literary circuit. He has been featured in interviews, literary panels, and festivals including the Kolkata Literature Festival. In a widely read 2023 interview with *Ei Samay*, he spoke about his writing process and belief in the value of wide reading. He actively engages with his readers through social media and has become a key figure in popularizing Bengali speculative fiction and cinematic storytelling in contemporary literature.

Bibliography

Character-based series

Krishnananda Agamavagisha series

Main article: Krishnananda Agamavagisha

A tantric scholar from 16th-century Bengal, reimagined as a time-traveling paranormal investigator dealing with black magic, curses, and dark forces.

• Ebong Inquisition – Introduces Agambagish; includes stories like Roktofolok and Bhog
• Petbotthu – Connects tantric practices with modern espionage and quantum physics
• Khōra Bhairabir Maath – Rural horror novellas (Kaliya Masan and Khōṛā Bhairabīr Māṭh)
• Pretjokkho O Onnanyo – Ghostly stories of afterlife and possession
• Dainiburi O Anyanya – Contains Agambagish-themed stories involving rural magic and Shakta rituals

Professor Chintaharan Mukherjee mysteries

Main article: Professor Chintaharan Mukherjee

A witty professor of marketing who solves crimes using logic and deduction, often laced with gentle satire.

• Panchti Rahasya Upanyas – Collection of five novellas (including Baren Mazumder Hatya Rahasya)

Nibaran Chakraborty arc

An amateur chronicler of mysticism, folklore, and hidden histories. Appears across formats:

• Chakrasambarer Punthi – Historical novella featuring Atisha Dipankara; narrated by Nibaran
• KakChokku – Audio horror-mystery involving Nibaran and a secretive monastery (YouTube release)

Genre-based listing

Tantric & Dark Fiction

• Ebong Inquisition – Occult-themed paranormal thriller
• Petbotthu – Thriller involving Tibetan Tantra, physics, and espionage
• Khōra Bhairabir Maath – Rural horror novellas (Kaliya Masan and Khōṛā Bhairabīr Māṭh)
• Pretjokkho O Onnanyo – Ghostly stories of afterlife and possession
• Dainiburi O Anyanya – Folk horror and Shakta witchcraft
• Andhakarer Galpa – Gothic horror short stories
• Kauriburer Mandir – Temple-centric supernatural thriller set in Assam
• The Shrine of Raven – English-language translated novel of Kauriburer Mandir

Historical Fiction

• Raybaghini – Based on Maharani Bhavashankari of Bengal
• Mahadebi – Set in Gupta Empire, involving queenship and intrigue
• Patamanjari – Early medieval Bengal, rebellion-themed
• Chakrasambarer Punthi – Buddhist mystery of Atisha and Kalachakra Tantra

Detective / Mystery Fiction

• Panchti Rahasya Upanyas – Professor Chintaharan series
• Mittir Barir Guptodhan – Paranormal treasure hunt
• Kauriburer Mandir – Also fits in this category
• KakChokku – Audio story; horror-investigation hybrid

Humour & Satire

• Ebong Market Visit – Social satire and everyday absurdities
• Ramyatroyodoshi – Thirteen humor stories revolving around superstition and irony

Teen / Contemporary Fiction

• Princess – Novella about a father's love for his daughter

Non-Fiction

• Asta Mangal

Adaptations

Several of Avik Sarkar’s stories have been adapted for screen, marking his growing impact on Bengali speculative and popular fiction. The most notable among these is the 2019 Bengali film Purba Paschim Dakshin, directed by Raajhorshee De, based on Sarkar’s acclaimed work *Ebong Inquisition*. The film blended Sarkar’s trademark tantric lore with psychological horror and was praised for its atmospheric storytelling. It received extensive media coverage during its production and release phases. According to interviews with the director, the film paid homage to figures like Krishnananda Agamavagisha, a tantric scholar who also features in Sarkar’s writing.

In 2025, Bhog, a dark spiritual thriller by Sarkar, was adapted into a web series. The show received critical and viewer acclaim for its chilling atmosphere, philosophical undertones, and authentic treatment of occult Bengali traditions. It marked a breakthrough for Bengali horror web series, with media coverage framing it as “a milestone in regional horror fiction.”

In addition to these, several of Sarkar’s stories have been released as audio narratives on his official site. These include dramatic renditions of *Kakchokku* and others, many of which are currently in production for screen adaptations. The audio presentations, often voiced with theatrical flair, serve both as entertainment and a precursor to upcoming films or series.

With a growing number of his stories optioned or in production, Sarkar is fast becoming a central figure in the adaptation of Bengali speculative fiction into multimedia formats. ```

External links

• Avik Sarkar Official Website
• Avik Sarkar on Facebook
• Author page on Matribhasa
• The Agambagish Series on Matribhasa
• Avik Sarkar – IMDb – Filmography of adaptations
• Goodreads – Avik Sarkar books and ratings
• Ei Samay interview (2023)
• TOI preview: Purbo Poschim Dokkhin Uttor Ashbei
• Spotboye: Interview with director Raajhorshee De
• Bhog (2025) series adaptation – Article
• Kishore Bharati – Anish Deb Memorial Award 2025 Announcement
• Bhog (web series) on Wikipedia
• Telegraph India – Teaser Out for Bhog
• t2Online – First Look of the Hoichoi series Bhog
• ETV Bharat – Bhog Preview
• Daily Star – Anirban stars in Bhog
• Telegraph – Tantric goddess thriller article
• MSN – Hoichoi drops Bhog teaser
• Bhog full text on Archive.org
• Paranormal thriller ‘Purba Paschim Dakshin’ shooting – Indian Express Bangla
• Rajorshi Dey announces ‘Purba Paschim Dakshin’ – Cinestaan
• Archived version of Cinestaan article on Web Archive
• Rupankar lends voice for ‘Purbo Poschim Dokkhin’ – Times of India
• First-ever paranormal thriller in Bengali – Indian Express Bangla
• Just Studio – Events & Media
• Teaser of ‘Purbo Poschim Dokkhin Uttor Ashbei’ – POPxo Bangla
• ‘Purba Paschim Dakkhin’ to begin filming – Times of India
• NDTV Movies – Film based on black magic: Purbo Paschim Dakshin

This page will be placed in the following categories if it is moved to the article namespace.

Categories:

• Living people
• Bengali-language writers
• 21st-century Indian novelists
• Indian horror writers
• Indian male novelists
• Indian science fiction writers
• Indian fantasy writers
• Writers from West Bengal
• Indian thriller writers
• Historical novelists
• 21st-century Indian male writers
• Indian screenwriters