Anjana Basu Biography, Wikipedia, Age, Husband & More!

Anjana Basu is a well-known author, poet, and translator from India. She has authored several critically acclaimed books and has won many prestigious awards for her work.

Anjana Basu is one of India's most acclaimed contemporary authors and translators. 

Through her richly evocative fiction and masterful translations, Anjana Basu has captivated readers across India and worldwide for over two decades.

In this article, we explore Anjana Basu's literary journey, from her beginnings as a copywriter in Kolkata to her rise as a multi-award-winning creative voice. 

We also examine some of her most iconic works, her unique writing style, and her eventful personal life.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive biography of Anjana Basu, including her personal life, career, achievements, and more.

Early Life and Education

Anjana Basu was born on October 18, 1946, in Kolkata, India. Her father was a well-known physician and her mother was a homemaker. 

Anjana completed her schooling at St. John's Diocesan Girls' High School in Kolkata. She then went on to pursue a degree in English Literature from Jadavpur University in Kolkata.

Anjana Basu's literary flair was evident from early on. She cut her teeth working as a copywriter before diving fully into freelance writing for leading Indian publications. This rich exposure to different writing styles honed her skills.

Career

Anjana Basu started her career as a copywriter in an advertising agency in Kolkata. 

Later, she worked as a freelance writer for various publications, including The Statesman, The Telegraph, and The Times of India. She also worked as a television producer for a brief period.

Anjana Basu's literary career took off in the 1990s when she started writing short stories and poems. Her first collection of short stories, 'The Agency Raga', was published in 1997. 

Since then, she has authored several books, including 'Curses in Ivory', 'Black Tongue', 'Undying Affinity', and 'The Mysterious Ailment of Rupi Baskey'.

Anjana Basu is also a renowned translator and has translated several Bengali books into English. 

Some of her notable translations include 'The Child' by Buddhadeva Bose, 'The Legends of Khasak' by O.V. Vijayan, and 'The Fifth Man' by Sunil Gangopadhyay.

Rise to Fame as an Author

Anjana Basu's first short story collection, 'The Agency Raga', published in 1997 announced her arrival as a fresh literary talent. 

Thereafter, through acclaimed books like 'Curses in Ivory', 'Undying Affinity' and 'The Mysterious Ailment of Rupi Baskey', she cemented her reputation as one of India's most insightful contemporary storytellers.

Critics praise Anjana Basu's ability to capture the complexity of human relationships against the backdrop of a morphing Indian society. 

Her writings shine a light on the struggles of individuals coping with changing social mores and norms.

Acclaimed Translator of Bengali Literature

Parallel to her own writing, Anjana Basu dedicated herself to translating seminal Bengali works into English. 

Her translations of classics like O.V. Vijayan's 'Legends of Khasak' have introduced some of Bengal's finest literature to a wider audience.

In 2002, the Sahitya Akademi recognized this contribution, awarding Basu for her translation of the short fiction collection 'Swayamvara and Other Stories'. Her other honors include the prestigious Katha Award.

Themes Close to the Heart

Several key themes recur through Basu's stories and translations. She focuses on the human psyche and emotional landscape. 

Her female protagonists often grapple with identity, relationships, and societal challenges.

Many of her writings explore the Bangla diaspora abroad. Anjana Basu also pens incisive political commentary through fiction. Her stories reveal a keen understanding of the human condition.

Awards and Recognition

Anjana Basu has received many awards and recognitions for her work. In 2002, she was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award for her translation of 'Swayamvara and Other Stories' by Bengali author Manoj Basu. 

She has also received the Ananda Puraskar, the Katha Award, and the Sangbad Award for her contributions to literature.

Personal Life

Anjana Basu is married to Dr Pradip Basu, a well-known physician. The couple has two daughters and currently resides in Kolkata.

Anjana Basu resides in Kolkata with her husband, physician Pradip Basu, and their two daughters. 

When not writing, she remains deeply engaged in the Indian literary scene. She has faced controversy, most recently for critiquing Nobel laureate Amartya Sen's memoir.

Nonetheless, Anjana Basu's substantial contributions have cemented her reputation as one of India's most important authors. 

Her writings on the complex realities of modern Indian life will continue inspiring readers and writers for generations to come.

Controversy

In 2020, Anjana Basu was embroiled in a controversy when she criticized the Nobel laureate Amartya Sen's book 'Home in the World' in an article for The Telegraph. 

She called the book 'insipid and turgid' and questioned Sen's literary credentials. Her comments were widely criticized by the literary community, and she faced backlash on social media.

Conclusion

Anjana Basu is a prominent literary figure in India and has made significant contributions to Bengali and English literature. 

Her works reflect the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of individuals in a rapidly changing world. 

Despite facing criticism and controversy, Anjana continues to write and inspire young writers with her works.

Few Indian writers have managed to both craft iconic fiction as well as offer superlative literary translations like Anjana Basu. 

Her layered portrayals of characters grappling with identity, relationships and social change make for insightful reading.

As one of India's most decorated contemporary authors and translators, Anjana Basu and her extensive works will leave an indelible mark on the country's rich literary heritage.

FAQs

What is Anjana Basu famous for?
Anjana Basu is famous for her work as an author, poet, and translator.

What are some of Anjana Basu's notable works?
Some of Anjana Basu's notable works include 'Curses in Ivory', 'Black Tongue', 'Undying Affinity', and 'The Mysterious Ailment of Rupi Baskey'.

What awards has Anjana Basu won?
Anjana Basu has won several awards, including the Sahitya.

Who is Anjana Basu's husband?
Anjana Basu is married to Dr Pradip Basu, a well-known physician.

Has Anjana Basu been involved in any controversies?
Yes, in 2020, Anjana Basu was involved in a controversy when she criticized Amartya Sen's book 'Home in the World' in an article for The Telegraph.

What is Anjana Basu's writing style?
Anjana Basu's writing style is characterized by her ability to capture the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of individuals in a rapidly changing world.

What is Anjana Basu's educational background?
Anjana Basu completed her degree in English Literature from Jadavpur University in Kolkata.

How many books has Anjana Basu authored?
Anjana Basu has authored several books, including short story collections, novels, and translations.

What is Anjana Basu's date of birth?
Anjana Basu was born on October 18, 1946.

Where does Anjana Basu currently reside?
Anjana Basu currently resides in Kolkata, India.

Anjana Basu's contributions to literature have earned her a well-deserved place among India's most renowned authors. 

Her ability to capture the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of individuals in a rapidly changing world has made her works popular among readers of all ages. 

Despite facing criticism and controversy, Anjana continues to write and inspire young writers with her works. 

Her contributions to literature will continue to inspire future generations of writers in India and beyond.

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