Achin Pakhi

This article is about the Byomkesh Bakshi story by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay. For the detective, see Byomkesh Bakshi.

Achin Pakhi

Author	Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay
Original title	অচিন পাখি
Language	Bengali
Series	Byomkesh Bakshi
Genre	Detective fiction, Crime fiction, Mystery fiction
Publication date	1960
Publication place	India
Media type	Print (Hardcover & Paperback)
Preceded by	Shailo Rahasya (1959)
Followed by	Kohen Kobi Kalidas (1961)

Achin Pakhi (Bengali: অচিন পাখি, English: Unknown Bird) is a 1960 Bengali detective fiction short story written by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay. It is part of the famous Byomkesh Bakshi series and follows the exploits of the detective Byomkesh Bakshi. The story is preceded by Shailo Rahasya (1959) and followed by Kohen Kobi Kalidas (1961) in the Byomkesh Bakshi series.

Plot summary

The story is set in a small town outside Kolkata, where Byomkesh Bakshi and his friend Ajit are attending a wedding. They meet a retired police officer named Neelmani Babu, who shares with them an unsolved case from his career that still haunts him.

Neelmani Babu recounts the mysterious deaths of a young woman named Hashi and her husband, Sureshwar Ghosh. Hashi, the daughter of a known criminal named Dinmani Haldar, was married to Sureshwar despite their different social backgrounds. Their marriage was troubled, with rumors of infidelity surrounding Hashi.

One night, Hashi's body is discovered, and the initial investigation points to Sureshwar as the prime suspect. However, before Neelmani Babu can build a solid case, Sureshwar is also found dead, killed in the same unusual manner as his wife.

The narrative delves into the complex web of relationships surrounding the couple. Key figures include:

1. Binod Sarkar, a local jeweler who provides crucial information about Hashi's possessions

2. Kalikinkar, Debu Mondal, and Bilas Dutta, friends of Sureshwar who were with him on the night of Hashi's death

3. Major Barman, the Civil Surgeon who performs the autopsies and provides insight into the unique method of killing

As Neelmani Babu recounts his investigation, he reveals various clues and testimonies that seem to contradict each other. The case is complicated by issues of class differences, suspected infidelity, and the shadowy presence of an unknown man who used to visit Hashi at night.

Byomkesh listens intently to the story, asking occasional questions that hint at deeper layers to the mystery. The story explores themes of justice, morality, and the lasting impact of past actions on the present.

The narrative structure, with Neelmani Babu recounting the case to Byomkesh, adds an extra layer of complexity to the mystery. It raises questions about the reliability of memory and perspective in solving crimes.

As Byomkesh begins to unravel the truth behind the murders, he discovers that the case is far more intricate than it initially appeared, with motivations and relationships that go beyond simple explanations of crime and punishment.

Characters

• Byomkesh Bakshi – The detective protagonist
• Ajit Bandyopadhyay – Byomkesh's friend and chronicler
• Neelmani Babu – A retired police officer who narrates the unsolved case
• Hashi – The murdered young woman
• Sureshwar Ghosh – Hashi's husband, also murdered
• Dinmani Haldar – Hashi's stepfather
• Amala – Hashi's mother
• Binod Sarkar – A local jeweler
• Major Barman – The Civil Surgeon who performed the autopsies

Themes

The story explores several complex themes:

• The nature of truth and perception: The narrative challenges the reader's assumptions and demonstrates how facts can be interpreted differently based on perspective.
• Moral ambiguity: The story blurs the lines between right and wrong, presenting characters whose actions are morally questionable but potentially justifiable.
• The past's influence on the present: Historical events and relationships play a crucial role in shaping the current mystery.
• The limitations of the justice system: The story highlights how sometimes the legal system may fail to bring culprits to justice.
• The complexity of human relationships: The tale delves into the intricacies of family ties, friendships, and romantic entanglements.

Literary significance

Achin Pakhi is notable for its intricate plot, depth of character development, and Byomkesh's extraordinary ability to solve the case without leaving the room. The story showcases Bandyopadhyay's skill in crafting complex criminal schemes and exploring the psychological motivations of his characters.

The narrative structure, with a story-within-a-story format, adds layers of complexity to the mystery. This approach allows the author to explore different time periods and perspectives, enriching the overall narrative.

Critics have praised the story for its sophisticated plot and the way it challenges readers to think critically. It is considered a shining example of the detective fiction genre and a testament to the enduring appeal of the Byomkesh Bakshi series.

The narrative structure, with a story-within-a-story format, adds layers of complexity to the mystery. This approach allows the author to explore different time periods and perspectives, enriching the overall narrative.

Critical reception

The story has been praised for its sophisticated plot and the way it challenges readers to think critically. Critics have noted how Bandyopadhyay uses the detective genre to explore deeper themes of morality and human nature. The character of Neelmani Babu, in particular, has been highlighted for its complexity and depth.

Adaptations

"Achin Pakhi" has been adapted into various media:

• Television: The story was adapted into an episode titled "Anjaan Khooni" in the 1993-1997 Byomkesh Bakshi television series, starring Rajit Kapur as Byomkesh Bakshi.
• Film: A Bengali film adaptation titled "Achin Pakhi" was released in 2012, directed by Swapan Ghoshal and starring Saptarshi Ray as Byomkesh Bakshi.
• Radio and Audiobooks: Multiple Bengali radio stations and audiobook platforms have featured dramatizations of "Achin Pakhi."

External links

• "Achin Pakhi" on Amazon.in
• "Byomkesh Bakshi Stories" on Goodreads
• "Achin Pakhi - Byomkesh Bakshi" on YouTube
• "Achin Pakhi" on Bengali Book
• "Anjaan Khooni: Achin Pakhi" on IMDb