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An anthology of best ghost stories from Bengal
A collection of translated ghost stories from Bengal
192 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 6, 2024
Embarking on "An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal," my initial skepticism about translations loomed large. However, the author's enchanting translation not only bridged linguistic gaps but also added a contemporary touch, transforming skepticism into genuine enjoyment. The vivid narratives of Bengali ghosts, each with its unique charm, were a delightful revelation.
But beyond the literary journey, this book became a heartfelt connection to my roots. Being miles away from Bengal, it felt like a spectral reunion with the familiar and nostalgic. In the silence of the night, the stories whispered echoes of home, filling a void with the warmth of shared memories.
For those with Bengali roots, this anthology is an invitation to revisit the ghostly tales woven into family histories. Share your own encounters with the supernatural in the comments, and let's revel in the collective nostalgia. And for those venturing into Bengali ghost lore for the first time, this book is a captivating initiation into the nuanced world of our spectral companions.
Personally, this anthology has earned a special place on my shelf. Whenever I crave the comfort of ghosts, the tug of nostalgia, or simply the solace of familiar stories, I know I'll turn to these pages. It's more than a book; it's a spectral embrace that resonates with the essence of home.
But beyond the literary journey, this book became a heartfelt connection to my roots. Being miles away from Bengal, it felt like a spectral reunion with the familiar and nostalgic. In the silence of the night, the stories whispered echoes of home, filling a void with the warmth of shared memories.
For those with Bengali roots, this anthology is an invitation to revisit the ghostly tales woven into family histories. Share your own encounters with the supernatural in the comments, and let's revel in the collective nostalgia. And for those venturing into Bengali ghost lore for the first time, this book is a captivating initiation into the nuanced world of our spectral companions.
Personally, this anthology has earned a special place on my shelf. Whenever I crave the comfort of ghosts, the tug of nostalgia, or simply the solace of familiar stories, I know I'll turn to these pages. It's more than a book; it's a spectral embrace that resonates with the essence of home.
May 23, 2026
**The Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal: Volume 2** turned out to be such a pleasant surprise for me. Since I hadn’t read Volume 1 before picking this up, I was a little worried whether it would affect my reading experience, but thankfully it didn’t at all. Each story stands strongly on its own, and the collection beautifully captures the eerie, atmospheric charm Bengali ghost stories are known for. I received this book from B-Books, and I’m genuinely thankful because this became such an enjoyable reading experience.
What impressed me the most was not just the selection of stories, but also the translation work. Being Bengali myself, I’ve grown up reading many legendary Bengali authors, and seeing their stories translated while still keeping that haunting essence intact is not an easy task at all. One story that unexpectedly stood out to me was *The Kak Baba’s Companion* by Himadri Kishore Dasgupta. I absolutely loved the atmosphere and writing style of that particular story. And honestly, huge respect to Barnali Saha for the translation and curation. As someone who also translates between Bengali and English during church sermons, I know how difficult it is to preserve the soul of Bengali while translating it into English without losing its sweetness and depth.
Overall, this anthology is such a strong collection for anyone who enjoys folklore, eerie tales, or Bengali literature. The stories are engaging, atmospheric, and easy to get lost in, especially during a cozy late-night reading session. I’d definitely give it **4 stars** and would love to explore more translated works like this in the future. 👻📖
What impressed me the most was not just the selection of stories, but also the translation work. Being Bengali myself, I’ve grown up reading many legendary Bengali authors, and seeing their stories translated while still keeping that haunting essence intact is not an easy task at all. One story that unexpectedly stood out to me was *The Kak Baba’s Companion* by Himadri Kishore Dasgupta. I absolutely loved the atmosphere and writing style of that particular story. And honestly, huge respect to Barnali Saha for the translation and curation. As someone who also translates between Bengali and English during church sermons, I know how difficult it is to preserve the soul of Bengali while translating it into English without losing its sweetness and depth.
Overall, this anthology is such a strong collection for anyone who enjoys folklore, eerie tales, or Bengali literature. The stories are engaging, atmospheric, and easy to get lost in, especially during a cozy late-night reading session. I’d definitely give it **4 stars** and would love to explore more translated works like this in the future. 👻📖
January 30, 2024
Twenty stories ranging in diversity in their presence of ghosts, has been included in this book. Having stories from some erstwhile authors of Bengal like Sharadindu Bandopadhyay, Parasuram, Bibhutibhusan, Hemendra Kumar Roy and many others, the paranormal presence in the stories are such that you will have to like the stories.
.
There is a bumblebee who s the harbinger of deatb, boroda a loved character who deals with ghosts and is often ridiculed for it has two stories, the cult bhusundi r math - the fabled field with spirits, the haunted house with a history, to Mahesh's final journey after death, each story has a plot that will leave you in awe.
Obviously having read ninety percent of them in bengali, I would see that the stories are literal word to word translations having kept the essence intact! Such non-Bengali readers will seamlessly get the feel of the stories.
.
Each story is a testament to the deep-rooted mysticism in Bengal, exploring themes of the supernatural, the unknown, and the lingering echoes of history. The haunting narratives are complemented by vivid descriptions that transport readers into the eerie landscapes especially of rural Bengal. Its quite a collection to keep in your repertoire.
.
There is a bumblebee who s the harbinger of deatb, boroda a loved character who deals with ghosts and is often ridiculed for it has two stories, the cult bhusundi r math - the fabled field with spirits, the haunted house with a history, to Mahesh's final journey after death, each story has a plot that will leave you in awe.
Obviously having read ninety percent of them in bengali, I would see that the stories are literal word to word translations having kept the essence intact! Such non-Bengali readers will seamlessly get the feel of the stories.
.
Each story is a testament to the deep-rooted mysticism in Bengal, exploring themes of the supernatural, the unknown, and the lingering echoes of history. The haunting narratives are complemented by vivid descriptions that transport readers into the eerie landscapes especially of rural Bengal. Its quite a collection to keep in your repertoire.
January 27, 2024
I have always had a fascination with ghost stories. Growing up, I would gobble up anything that had to do with the occult, ghosts, or anything paranormal. My mother would tell me stories, sometimes taken from real life, sometimes fabricated, and sometimes from the books of esteemed ghost story collections.
I was around ten when I discovered an old, worn-down book of a collection of ghost stories, selected by Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay in Bengali, from the house attic. I was thrilled. After that, I read that book countless times and kept it like a valuable antique on one of my shelves.
Over the years, I have bought many of his books. Read them. I enjoyed them like any grown person would enjoy a glass of aged whisky on a cold day. Most of the time, they were weirdly comforting and sometimes dread-invoking. Gone are those days when my family members would sit around to casually discuss ghosts or my mother would lull me to sleep with one of her fierce stories of ghouls. I realise with a pang of sadness in my heart that I too, sometime in the past, stopped reading them in my mother tongue. When it comes to ghost stories, no one can surpass Bengali writers of the past, and no taste can match the delicacy of ghost stories read in Bengali.
A few days ago, I had the opportunity to read a collection of the best ghost stories from Bengal, but in English. I was quite sceptical. As I said, I would rather read Bengali stories in their original language than others, and so, gently amused, I made use of the opportunity to satiate my curiosity to understand how translation would render the emotions of these stories.
I was taken aback. I have read most of the stories from the book in Bengali, and hence, I could compare them in my mind. The translation work was able to maintain the essence of each story, keeping the soul of Bengal alive in them, and surprisingly, I enjoyed reading them! This collection has some of the finest stories written by some of the most versatile writers Bengal has ever produced. It has stories by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay, Bibhutibhusan Bandopadhyay, Syed Mustafa Siraj, Bonophool, Hemendra Kumar Ray, and many others.
I am sure that you have come across ghost stories written by them. If not, and if reading translated work is something you like, then you can pick this book up for a spooky book night!
I was around ten when I discovered an old, worn-down book of a collection of ghost stories, selected by Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay in Bengali, from the house attic. I was thrilled. After that, I read that book countless times and kept it like a valuable antique on one of my shelves.
Over the years, I have bought many of his books. Read them. I enjoyed them like any grown person would enjoy a glass of aged whisky on a cold day. Most of the time, they were weirdly comforting and sometimes dread-invoking. Gone are those days when my family members would sit around to casually discuss ghosts or my mother would lull me to sleep with one of her fierce stories of ghouls. I realise with a pang of sadness in my heart that I too, sometime in the past, stopped reading them in my mother tongue. When it comes to ghost stories, no one can surpass Bengali writers of the past, and no taste can match the delicacy of ghost stories read in Bengali.
A few days ago, I had the opportunity to read a collection of the best ghost stories from Bengal, but in English. I was quite sceptical. As I said, I would rather read Bengali stories in their original language than others, and so, gently amused, I made use of the opportunity to satiate my curiosity to understand how translation would render the emotions of these stories.
I was taken aback. I have read most of the stories from the book in Bengali, and hence, I could compare them in my mind. The translation work was able to maintain the essence of each story, keeping the soul of Bengal alive in them, and surprisingly, I enjoyed reading them! This collection has some of the finest stories written by some of the most versatile writers Bengal has ever produced. It has stories by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay, Bibhutibhusan Bandopadhyay, Syed Mustafa Siraj, Bonophool, Hemendra Kumar Ray, and many others.
I am sure that you have come across ghost stories written by them. If not, and if reading translated work is something you like, then you can pick this book up for a spooky book night!
April 28, 2026
If you’re expecting a light, campfire-style ghost collection, this book will quietly betray you. An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal is far more unsettling, because its ghosts don’t simply haunt houses, they haunt history, memory, and the fragile human mind.
There is something deeply disquieting about Bengali ghost stories, something that refuses spectacle and instead seeps into your bones. This anthology, curated and translated by Barnali Saha, gathers voices from nearly a century (1838–1938), an era where superstition coexisted with colonial modernity, and fear wore a very human face.
What makes this collection terrifying is not the ghosts themselves, but the uncertainty of them.
Stories by masters like Rabindranath Tagore, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, and Hemendra Kumar Roy unfold like quiet evenings in old Bengal, slow, atmospheric, deceptively calm. And then, almost without warning, something shifts. A presence is felt, not seen. A voice echoes where no one stands. A memory refuses to stay buried.
These are not jump-scare stories. They are lingering nightmares.
One of the anthology’s greatest strengths lies in its psychological depth. Many tales blur the line between the supernatural and the internal, leaving you unsure whether the horror comes from a ghost… or from a fractured conscience. The socio-cultural backdrop, gender roles, colonial tension, rural isolation, adds layers of unease, making the hauntings feel rooted in reality rather than fantasy.
And the translations? Surprisingly immersive. They retain a certain old-world rhythm, like listening to a গল্প told by candlelight—formal, yet intimate, as if the past itself is whispering to you.
This is not a book you “finish.”
It’s one you carry.
Long after you close it, you may find yourself:
* Pausing at shadows that feel too still
* Listening twice to silence
* Wondering whether every story was really just fiction
Because Bengal’s ghosts don’t scream.
They wait.
A haunting, literary experience that prioritizes atmosphere over shock. If you enjoy slow-burn dread, cultural depth, and stories that unsettle rather than startle, this anthology is quietly terrifying in the best possible way
There is something deeply disquieting about Bengali ghost stories, something that refuses spectacle and instead seeps into your bones. This anthology, curated and translated by Barnali Saha, gathers voices from nearly a century (1838–1938), an era where superstition coexisted with colonial modernity, and fear wore a very human face.
What makes this collection terrifying is not the ghosts themselves, but the uncertainty of them.
Stories by masters like Rabindranath Tagore, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, and Hemendra Kumar Roy unfold like quiet evenings in old Bengal, slow, atmospheric, deceptively calm. And then, almost without warning, something shifts. A presence is felt, not seen. A voice echoes where no one stands. A memory refuses to stay buried.
These are not jump-scare stories. They are lingering nightmares.
One of the anthology’s greatest strengths lies in its psychological depth. Many tales blur the line between the supernatural and the internal, leaving you unsure whether the horror comes from a ghost… or from a fractured conscience. The socio-cultural backdrop, gender roles, colonial tension, rural isolation, adds layers of unease, making the hauntings feel rooted in reality rather than fantasy.
And the translations? Surprisingly immersive. They retain a certain old-world rhythm, like listening to a গল্প told by candlelight—formal, yet intimate, as if the past itself is whispering to you.
This is not a book you “finish.”
It’s one you carry.
Long after you close it, you may find yourself:
* Pausing at shadows that feel too still
* Listening twice to silence
* Wondering whether every story was really just fiction
Because Bengal’s ghosts don’t scream.
They wait.
A haunting, literary experience that prioritizes atmosphere over shock. If you enjoy slow-burn dread, cultural depth, and stories that unsettle rather than startle, this anthology is quietly terrifying in the best possible way
May 9, 2026
As someone residing in Bengal, I was super excited to get my hands on this anthology. A quick Google search told me that all the stories were written by renowned Bengali authors. Thanks to the translation by Barnali Saha, I would have otherwise missed out on a few gems.
Once you start, there’s hardly a dull moment. Now, not all the stories are scream-out-loud scary, but they are definitely eerie. Basically, you don’t close the book feeling scared, but it does make you ponder, wonder, maybe even pause before proceeding. Some stories are deeply satisfying as you watch evil men get what they deserve, while in others, you pity the characters and wish for a better outcome for them.
I experienced a myriad of emotions while reading this anthology. Even after finishing a story, a strange sense of unease lingers with you. That said, there were definitely moments that gave me goosebumps. What I loved most was the perfect variety the collection offers. From tantric babas and sadistic men meeting their end to stories that are completely nail-biting, this anthology truly keeps you hooked.
Coming to the translation by Barnali Saha, it deserves all the appreciation. The language used throughout the book is strong, and the translation flows so naturally that it never feels forced. It maintains the rhythm of the stories beautifully.
While I absolutely enjoyed all 15 stories, some were my favorites. I am listing them below in no particular order.
-The spirit of Azamgarh by Syed Mustafa Siraj
-Burnt Turmeric by Manik Bandopadhyay
-The Kaak Baab's Companion by Himadri Kishore Dasgupta
-Andhaka by Avik Mukhopadhyay
-The Birdhouse by Mriganka Bhattacharya
- Red Hair by Manoj Basu
-The Skeleton Driver by Hemendra Kumar Roy
If you enjoy horror stories that stay in your mind long after you have finished reading, this anthology is definitely for you. Beyond the spooky atmosphere and memorable stories, I also loved getting a glimpse into Bengal folklore and its haunting richness.
Once you start, there’s hardly a dull moment. Now, not all the stories are scream-out-loud scary, but they are definitely eerie. Basically, you don’t close the book feeling scared, but it does make you ponder, wonder, maybe even pause before proceeding. Some stories are deeply satisfying as you watch evil men get what they deserve, while in others, you pity the characters and wish for a better outcome for them.
I experienced a myriad of emotions while reading this anthology. Even after finishing a story, a strange sense of unease lingers with you. That said, there were definitely moments that gave me goosebumps. What I loved most was the perfect variety the collection offers. From tantric babas and sadistic men meeting their end to stories that are completely nail-biting, this anthology truly keeps you hooked.
Coming to the translation by Barnali Saha, it deserves all the appreciation. The language used throughout the book is strong, and the translation flows so naturally that it never feels forced. It maintains the rhythm of the stories beautifully.
While I absolutely enjoyed all 15 stories, some were my favorites. I am listing them below in no particular order.
-The spirit of Azamgarh by Syed Mustafa Siraj
-Burnt Turmeric by Manik Bandopadhyay
-The Kaak Baab's Companion by Himadri Kishore Dasgupta
-Andhaka by Avik Mukhopadhyay
-The Birdhouse by Mriganka Bhattacharya
- Red Hair by Manoj Basu
-The Skeleton Driver by Hemendra Kumar Roy
If you enjoy horror stories that stay in your mind long after you have finished reading, this anthology is definitely for you. Beyond the spooky atmosphere and memorable stories, I also loved getting a glimpse into Bengal folklore and its haunting richness.
April 28, 2026
This book doesn’t rush to scare you. It waits. It builds a feeling first, then lets it settle under your skin. The stories come from Bengal’s literary tradition, and you can sense that depth immediately. These aren’t just ghost encounters. They feel like conversations with something unfinished.
The setting of each story is ordinary marked by a quiet house, a deserted road and, a slow evening by the river. A presence, a memory, a voice that shouldn’t be there. The fear doesn’t jump out. It actually grows quietly, almost politely, until you realize you’re completely inside it.
Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay's ghost story stayed with me even after I finished this book. His storytelling feels slower, almost gentle, yet it unsettles you more. Nature plays a big role where forests, empty paths, and fading light carry different tone. The supernatural blends so naturally into the setting that you don’t notice the shift until it’s already happened.
Many stories carry a kind of sadness. The ghosts don’t always want revenge. Sometimes they just remain. That lingering presence feels more unsettling than anything loud. It also makes the stories feel human. You begin to think less about fear and more about what stays behind when life moves on.
The translation keeps things simple without losing texture. You can still feel the culture in the rhythm of speech, the weight of silence, the way belief and doubt exist together. One part I kept thinking about is how a character senses something is wrong but can’t explain it. That hesitation felt real and it excellently mirrored how we experience fear not with certainty, but with unease.
This book suits readers who enjoy slow, atmospheric storytelling. If you like horror that lingers rather than shocks, this will stay with you longer than expected.
The setting of each story is ordinary marked by a quiet house, a deserted road and, a slow evening by the river. A presence, a memory, a voice that shouldn’t be there. The fear doesn’t jump out. It actually grows quietly, almost politely, until you realize you’re completely inside it.
Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay's ghost story stayed with me even after I finished this book. His storytelling feels slower, almost gentle, yet it unsettles you more. Nature plays a big role where forests, empty paths, and fading light carry different tone. The supernatural blends so naturally into the setting that you don’t notice the shift until it’s already happened.
Many stories carry a kind of sadness. The ghosts don’t always want revenge. Sometimes they just remain. That lingering presence feels more unsettling than anything loud. It also makes the stories feel human. You begin to think less about fear and more about what stays behind when life moves on.
The translation keeps things simple without losing texture. You can still feel the culture in the rhythm of speech, the weight of silence, the way belief and doubt exist together. One part I kept thinking about is how a character senses something is wrong but can’t explain it. That hesitation felt real and it excellently mirrored how we experience fear not with certainty, but with unease.
This book suits readers who enjoy slow, atmospheric storytelling. If you like horror that lingers rather than shocks, this will stay with you longer than expected.
May 7, 2026
How do you define horror? Something that involves ghosts and paranormal activities? Or something that is eerie and makes the hair at the back stand?
'An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories From Bengal Vol. II', selected and translated by Barnali Saha, is a collection of 15 stories that redefines the conventional idea of ghost stories. The collection includes the narratives of various well-proclaimed writers of the Bengali literature, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Manik Bandopadhyay and Hemendra Kumar Roy to name a few.
The fear is slowly and subtly set to settle in your minds. It isn't the jump-scare that is usually associated with ghost stories. It goes way past that. It meddles with your psychology and explores how fear can play with your mind. It hauntingly blends the supernatural into reality, which makes it even more spine-chilling. It is difficult to distinguish between the two and in some stories, the writer leaves it to you to untwine whether it was something supernatural or just a mere hallucination.
Talking about the stories I loved are 'She Spells Doom' and 'The Emperor's Tomb'. The first one reveals the unsettling facts through letters that the protagonist finds in an abandoned hut near which the villagers do not even dare to go. It is believed that whoever spends the night in the hut does not see the sun rise the next day. The second one breaks the boundary between the two worlds. The story takes place on a full moon night when the protagonist goes to Emperor Akbar's Tomb and experiences a rare spectacle. He supposedly receives golden gooseberries which are "real".
These stories unsettle you. The narrative is engaging and the stories stay with you long after the book is closed.
If you are a horror fan or love exploring ghost/supernatural stories, this is definitely worth picking up.
'An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories From Bengal Vol. II', selected and translated by Barnali Saha, is a collection of 15 stories that redefines the conventional idea of ghost stories. The collection includes the narratives of various well-proclaimed writers of the Bengali literature, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Manik Bandopadhyay and Hemendra Kumar Roy to name a few.
The fear is slowly and subtly set to settle in your minds. It isn't the jump-scare that is usually associated with ghost stories. It goes way past that. It meddles with your psychology and explores how fear can play with your mind. It hauntingly blends the supernatural into reality, which makes it even more spine-chilling. It is difficult to distinguish between the two and in some stories, the writer leaves it to you to untwine whether it was something supernatural or just a mere hallucination.
Talking about the stories I loved are 'She Spells Doom' and 'The Emperor's Tomb'. The first one reveals the unsettling facts through letters that the protagonist finds in an abandoned hut near which the villagers do not even dare to go. It is believed that whoever spends the night in the hut does not see the sun rise the next day. The second one breaks the boundary between the two worlds. The story takes place on a full moon night when the protagonist goes to Emperor Akbar's Tomb and experiences a rare spectacle. He supposedly receives golden gooseberries which are "real".
These stories unsettle you. The narrative is engaging and the stories stay with you long after the book is closed.
If you are a horror fan or love exploring ghost/supernatural stories, this is definitely worth picking up.
May 25, 2026
🌺An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal Vol. II is the kind of collection that lingers long after the final page. Translated and curated by Barnali Saha this anthology gathers exquisite stories by eminent authors like Manilal Gangopadhyay, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Hemendra Kumar Roy. The capturing of the authenticity of atmospheric eerie-ness in the tales from Bengali literature and introduces them to a wider audience has been done with remarkable elegance.
🥀
🌺What makes the collection stand out is the stories selected rarely rely on jump scares rather, they unfold slowly, drawing readers into lonely mansions, shadowy riverbanks, forgotten villages, and deep human fears. The supernatural often feels inseparable from memory, grief, guilt, and longing. Several stories leave one wondering whether the horror was paranormal at all or simply the mind unraveling in silence.
🥀
🌺The translations have effectively preserved the authenticity and cultural texture of Bengali storytelling while remaining fluid and easily comprehensible. The anthology also serves as a fascinating literary bridge, introducing readers to celebrated Bengali writers. The collection reflects Bengal’s long tradition of ghost lore, which brings about the perfect blend of folklore, colonial anxieties, spirituality, and psychological unease often intersect.
🥀
🌺Would recommend this book to readers who enjoy atmospheric horror, translated literature, or classic ghost stories with emotional depth, this volume is a rewarding and haunting read. Rather than frightening you outright, it quietly settles into your imagination and stays with one long after the horror in the words have ended.
🥀
🥀
🌺What makes the collection stand out is the stories selected rarely rely on jump scares rather, they unfold slowly, drawing readers into lonely mansions, shadowy riverbanks, forgotten villages, and deep human fears. The supernatural often feels inseparable from memory, grief, guilt, and longing. Several stories leave one wondering whether the horror was paranormal at all or simply the mind unraveling in silence.
🥀
🌺The translations have effectively preserved the authenticity and cultural texture of Bengali storytelling while remaining fluid and easily comprehensible. The anthology also serves as a fascinating literary bridge, introducing readers to celebrated Bengali writers. The collection reflects Bengal’s long tradition of ghost lore, which brings about the perfect blend of folklore, colonial anxieties, spirituality, and psychological unease often intersect.
🥀
🌺Would recommend this book to readers who enjoy atmospheric horror, translated literature, or classic ghost stories with emotional depth, this volume is a rewarding and haunting read. Rather than frightening you outright, it quietly settles into your imagination and stays with one long after the horror in the words have ended.
🥀
January 20, 2024
"An Anthology of Best Ghost Stories from Bengal" is like a treasure chest filled with short spooky tales by renowned Bengali authors starting from Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay to Hemendra Kumar Roy, that transport you to a world where ghosts and the everyday seamlessly blend. Each story carries you into the heart of Bengali ghost folklore. This collection is a mix of hair-raising encounters and thought-provoking explorations of the supernatural.
Barnali Saha's translation not only captures the eerie atmospheres and ghostly figures but also keeps intact the cultural nuances unique to each story. Regardless of your language background, her work ensures you fully connect with the rich storytelling tradition of Bengal.
The book brings out the complex emotions, cultural references, and subtle language intricacies found in Bengali literature. Every story is a showcase of the literary brilliance of Bengali authors, and the translation is a true reflection of their artistry. It acts as a literary bridge, allowing you to wander through haunted landscapes and embrace the supernatural folklore of Bengal.
"An Anthology of Best Ghost Stories from Bengal" isn't just a bunch of translated tales; it's an entrance into the mysterious world of Bengali literature, where Saha's translation bring the book to broader range of readers to explore chilling encounters, unearth spirits and unravel the unexplained. For anyone curious to venture into the ghostly richness of Bengal's stories, this anthology serves as an enchanting and eerie gateway into a world where the supernatural dances just beyond the curtain of the ordinary.
Barnali Saha's translation not only captures the eerie atmospheres and ghostly figures but also keeps intact the cultural nuances unique to each story. Regardless of your language background, her work ensures you fully connect with the rich storytelling tradition of Bengal.
The book brings out the complex emotions, cultural references, and subtle language intricacies found in Bengali literature. Every story is a showcase of the literary brilliance of Bengali authors, and the translation is a true reflection of their artistry. It acts as a literary bridge, allowing you to wander through haunted landscapes and embrace the supernatural folklore of Bengal.
"An Anthology of Best Ghost Stories from Bengal" isn't just a bunch of translated tales; it's an entrance into the mysterious world of Bengali literature, where Saha's translation bring the book to broader range of readers to explore chilling encounters, unearth spirits and unravel the unexplained. For anyone curious to venture into the ghostly richness of Bengal's stories, this anthology serves as an enchanting and eerie gateway into a world where the supernatural dances just beyond the curtain of the ordinary.
May 10, 2026
I love picking up a new short story collection, and this time I decided to dive into something atmospheric and immersive. I just finished reading An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories From Bengal, published by BEE Books. This specific edition is volume two of the series, featuring fifteen regional tales translated into English by Barnali Saha.
What really caught my attention is how these do not feel like your typical ghost stories that rely only on simple jump scares or sudden horror moments. Instead, the authors bring different layers to the narrative, creating stories that feel atmospheric, emotional, and memorable at the same time.
While every single entry in this collection offers a good reading experience, I absolutely have a few standout favorites. “The Jack of Hearts” by Manilal Gangopadhyay, “Andhaka” by Avik Mukhopadhyay, and “The Emperor's Tomb” by Hemendra Kumar Roy were the ones I enjoyed the most. The writing in these specific chapters kept my attention throughout and made me continue reading without long breaks.
Whenever I pick up an anthology, I have a habit of completely ignoring the table of contents. I never really read the stories in their proper order. I just randomly flip through the pages, stop wherever it feels right, and start reading from there. The interesting thing about doing that with this specific collection is that I landed on engaging stories many times.
Finally, I also have to mention the physical quality of the edition. BEE Books editions usually have a very nice feel to them, which added positively to the overall reading experience.
Overall, this is a well-curated and engaging collection that I enjoyed reading a lot.
What really caught my attention is how these do not feel like your typical ghost stories that rely only on simple jump scares or sudden horror moments. Instead, the authors bring different layers to the narrative, creating stories that feel atmospheric, emotional, and memorable at the same time.
While every single entry in this collection offers a good reading experience, I absolutely have a few standout favorites. “The Jack of Hearts” by Manilal Gangopadhyay, “Andhaka” by Avik Mukhopadhyay, and “The Emperor's Tomb” by Hemendra Kumar Roy were the ones I enjoyed the most. The writing in these specific chapters kept my attention throughout and made me continue reading without long breaks.
Whenever I pick up an anthology, I have a habit of completely ignoring the table of contents. I never really read the stories in their proper order. I just randomly flip through the pages, stop wherever it feels right, and start reading from there. The interesting thing about doing that with this specific collection is that I landed on engaging stories many times.
Finally, I also have to mention the physical quality of the edition. BEE Books editions usually have a very nice feel to them, which added positively to the overall reading experience.
Overall, this is a well-curated and engaging collection that I enjoyed reading a lot.
May 21, 2026
West Bengal has always been a land of culture, art, cinema, and literature. Bengali literature, especially, has given us some of the greatest writers and stories ever written. Which is why it honestly makes me sad sometimes that Bengali literature is slowly losing the kind of mainstream space and discussion it truly deserves today.
The book is a compilation of short ghost stories by some of Bengal’s most legendary writers, ranging from Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay to Manik Bandopadhyay. And that itself makes this collection feel special because it introduces readers to such iconic literary voices in a very accessible format.
Now coming to the translation. People often say that something always gets lost in translation, and maybe that is true to some extent here as well. But at the same time, the language is so simple, fluid, and accessible that it actually helps modern readers connect with these stories easily. It never feels intimidating or overly dense. You can genuinely feel that a lot of care and heart has gone into putting this collection together.
My personal favourite has to be Climax by Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay. It is a very short story, but please do not judge it by its length. The atmosphere it creates is incredible. The horror here does not come from loud jump scares or ghosts like Annabelle or *The Conjuring*. Instead, it comes from silence, everyday spaces, uneasiness, and that uncanny feeling that something is just… wrong. Personally, this is the kind of horror I enjoy the most. The twists were mind-blowing. I will highly recommend this book for people who want to get into horror or bengali literature.
The book is a compilation of short ghost stories by some of Bengal’s most legendary writers, ranging from Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay to Manik Bandopadhyay. And that itself makes this collection feel special because it introduces readers to such iconic literary voices in a very accessible format.
Now coming to the translation. People often say that something always gets lost in translation, and maybe that is true to some extent here as well. But at the same time, the language is so simple, fluid, and accessible that it actually helps modern readers connect with these stories easily. It never feels intimidating or overly dense. You can genuinely feel that a lot of care and heart has gone into putting this collection together.
My personal favourite has to be Climax by Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay. It is a very short story, but please do not judge it by its length. The atmosphere it creates is incredible. The horror here does not come from loud jump scares or ghosts like Annabelle or *The Conjuring*. Instead, it comes from silence, everyday spaces, uneasiness, and that uncanny feeling that something is just… wrong. Personally, this is the kind of horror I enjoy the most. The twists were mind-blowing. I will highly recommend this book for people who want to get into horror or bengali literature.
January 20, 2024
First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to Kolkata Bookworms and Bee Books for giving me the chance to review this book.
Selected and translated by Barnali Saha, An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal is a compilation of tales from well-known Bengali authors. Having grown up with one set of Bengali grandparents, I vividly recall my childhood days of pestering my grandparents to tell me ghost stories. One thing I will always treasure from my childhood is curling up on a blanket next to them while they read me some of these stories. Beware yet, avoid reading all of these out to your children, some of them are quite dark and twisted.
It was a pleasant trip down memory lane for me since this book brought back the days when adults used stories as leverage to persuade children to complete daily tasks they ought to have been doing. This is the place to find everything from exorcisms to haunted houses, from ghost trains to terrifying tantriks.
I must admit, though, that the translation could have been done with greater precision. The terminology was inconsistent, shifting from being vintage to current in a matter of seconds. That detracts from the experience, as does the abundance of errors made. It's also important for me to mention that some of the writers who were supposed to be in this were absent.
Out of the 20 included in this collection, these 2 were my favourites:
Hell Express by Sourindramohan Mukhopadhyay &
Exorcist Sudan by Sukumar Ray
Overall, a 3 ⭐️ read.
Selected and translated by Barnali Saha, An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal is a compilation of tales from well-known Bengali authors. Having grown up with one set of Bengali grandparents, I vividly recall my childhood days of pestering my grandparents to tell me ghost stories. One thing I will always treasure from my childhood is curling up on a blanket next to them while they read me some of these stories. Beware yet, avoid reading all of these out to your children, some of them are quite dark and twisted.
It was a pleasant trip down memory lane for me since this book brought back the days when adults used stories as leverage to persuade children to complete daily tasks they ought to have been doing. This is the place to find everything from exorcisms to haunted houses, from ghost trains to terrifying tantriks.
I must admit, though, that the translation could have been done with greater precision. The terminology was inconsistent, shifting from being vintage to current in a matter of seconds. That detracts from the experience, as does the abundance of errors made. It's also important for me to mention that some of the writers who were supposed to be in this were absent.
Out of the 20 included in this collection, these 2 were my favourites:
Hell Express by Sourindramohan Mukhopadhyay &
Exorcist Sudan by Sukumar Ray
Overall, a 3 ⭐️ read.
January 23, 2024
The text is an anthology of a few famous horror stories from Bengal : 20 to be exact. To a Bengali person, the stories carry with them a solid essence of nostalgia : the known format of আড্ডা (gossip) with চা (tea)and a concerning ghost story is a childhood comfort for us.
For non Bengalis, it is a great and succinct introduction towards our culture's interpretation of horror and the paranormal : our entities have their own quirks and personalities, and you can sit back with a cup of tea and enjoy them all, as day slowly turns to night and you start feeling an odd whisper right near your ear. All while you're alone at home.
The selection and translation was quite nicely done. Certain stories may have originally had old Bengali, while the others are in contemporary Bengali : but the translation is done in a very uniform manner, in relatively simple English and vocabulary, which is good for beginners. Most of the famous authors one can think of, when asked about bengali horror stories, are there, presenting a holistic and helpful beginning for further reading. There were a few typos here and there, but it does not hamper the reading experience at all.
The Story of Tantrist Taranath was a personal favourite. Bibhutibhushan's immersive writing, coupled with the grotesque theme of the plot was absolutely enchanting. And Mahesh's final journey used to be in our syllabus in ICSE, so reading that was quite the nostalgic trip. Overall, a very enjoyable read that I'll resort to often, to unwind!
For non Bengalis, it is a great and succinct introduction towards our culture's interpretation of horror and the paranormal : our entities have their own quirks and personalities, and you can sit back with a cup of tea and enjoy them all, as day slowly turns to night and you start feeling an odd whisper right near your ear. All while you're alone at home.
The selection and translation was quite nicely done. Certain stories may have originally had old Bengali, while the others are in contemporary Bengali : but the translation is done in a very uniform manner, in relatively simple English and vocabulary, which is good for beginners. Most of the famous authors one can think of, when asked about bengali horror stories, are there, presenting a holistic and helpful beginning for further reading. There were a few typos here and there, but it does not hamper the reading experience at all.
The Story of Tantrist Taranath was a personal favourite. Bibhutibhushan's immersive writing, coupled with the grotesque theme of the plot was absolutely enchanting. And Mahesh's final journey used to be in our syllabus in ICSE, so reading that was quite the nostalgic trip. Overall, a very enjoyable read that I'll resort to often, to unwind!
January 24, 2024
'An anthology of Best Ghost Stories from Bengal' encompasses century-old tales from stalwarts of Bengali literature like Sukumar Ray, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Hemendra Kumar Roy, Bonophool, etc that have been loved by generations.
The stories have been carefully handpicked to give an account of the socio-political landscape that flourished during the early 19th and 20th centuries.
'Exorcist Sudan' is a supernatural story penned by Sukumar Ray that has mythological elements and chronicles how Sudan and nymph Rambha outsmarted a king to spend their individual lives happily.
The read gives a fair idea of the intricacies of life that thrived in Calcutta and nearby areas. Different atmospheric elements have been introduced to create a spooky vibe. The innate Indianness of the tales stays intact by the cultural fabric woven into the stories. The supernatural occurrences made its presence felt on a blood moon night, in dilapidated mansions where the extinguishing of the lamps marked the arrival of the spirits. The rumour of a metaphysical spectacle traveled far and wide with the natives choosing to believe it or feign ignorance.
The collective of writers with their astute observation of society have deftly transformed superstitious beliefs into hair-raising and sometimes entertaining pieces of fiction.
The cultural essence of the stories has been preserved by the translatory endeavours of Barnali Saha. As a non-Bengali, I would have preferred if a backstory of how the tales were conceived was also mentioned.
The stories have been carefully handpicked to give an account of the socio-political landscape that flourished during the early 19th and 20th centuries.
'Exorcist Sudan' is a supernatural story penned by Sukumar Ray that has mythological elements and chronicles how Sudan and nymph Rambha outsmarted a king to spend their individual lives happily.
The read gives a fair idea of the intricacies of life that thrived in Calcutta and nearby areas. Different atmospheric elements have been introduced to create a spooky vibe. The innate Indianness of the tales stays intact by the cultural fabric woven into the stories. The supernatural occurrences made its presence felt on a blood moon night, in dilapidated mansions where the extinguishing of the lamps marked the arrival of the spirits. The rumour of a metaphysical spectacle traveled far and wide with the natives choosing to believe it or feign ignorance.
The collective of writers with their astute observation of society have deftly transformed superstitious beliefs into hair-raising and sometimes entertaining pieces of fiction.
The cultural essence of the stories has been preserved by the translatory endeavours of Barnali Saha. As a non-Bengali, I would have preferred if a backstory of how the tales were conceived was also mentioned.
May 16, 2026
People really don’t realise how insanely good Bengali horror literature is. Bengali writers were writing psychological horror, occult stories, eerie folklore, and atmospheric ghost fiction long before horror became “cool” on social media.
And honestly, one of my biggest regrets is not being able to properly read Bengali literature in its original form.
As someone who practically survives on Bengali audio stories from channels like Sunday Suspense and Goppo Mir-er Thek, this book felt extremely personal to me. While reading, I could literally hear those dramatic narrations in my head. The slow tension, old mansions, crematorium roads, petnis, tantriks, strange silences… this is the exact flavour of horror Bengali storytelling is famous for.
An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal is basically a collection of Bengali horror classics by legendary writers like Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Hemendra Kumar Roy, Syed Mustafa Siraj, Manik Bandopadhyay, and many more. And what makes this edition special is the translation work. Thankfully, Bee Books made these stories accessible for readers like me who crave Bengali literature but cannot fluently read Bengali script.
What I loved most is that these stories don’t rely on cheap jump scares. The horror grows slowly through atmosphere, grief, loneliness, superstition, and that constant feeling that something is terribly wrong.
If you are someone who loves atmospheric horror, Bengali audio stories, folklore, occult fiction, or slow psychological dread, this book is genuinely for you.
And honestly, one of my biggest regrets is not being able to properly read Bengali literature in its original form.
As someone who practically survives on Bengali audio stories from channels like Sunday Suspense and Goppo Mir-er Thek, this book felt extremely personal to me. While reading, I could literally hear those dramatic narrations in my head. The slow tension, old mansions, crematorium roads, petnis, tantriks, strange silences… this is the exact flavour of horror Bengali storytelling is famous for.
An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal is basically a collection of Bengali horror classics by legendary writers like Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Hemendra Kumar Roy, Syed Mustafa Siraj, Manik Bandopadhyay, and many more. And what makes this edition special is the translation work. Thankfully, Bee Books made these stories accessible for readers like me who crave Bengali literature but cannot fluently read Bengali script.
What I loved most is that these stories don’t rely on cheap jump scares. The horror grows slowly through atmosphere, grief, loneliness, superstition, and that constant feeling that something is terribly wrong.
If you are someone who loves atmospheric horror, Bengali audio stories, folklore, occult fiction, or slow psychological dread, this book is genuinely for you.
April 27, 2026
Dark nights. Whispering winds. Stories that refuse to stay buried…
Ghost stories are more than tales of fear—they are echoes of lives unfinished, emotions unresolved, and secrets that refuse to fade with time. They slip quietly into our minds, blurring the line between what is real and what lurks just beyond our understanding. Whether set in crumbling mansions, forgotten graveyards, or mist-covered villages, these stories carry an eerie familiarity that makes them impossible to ignore.
What truly haunts us is not always the ghost itself, but the feeling it leaves behind. The soft creak of a door with no one there. The sudden drop in silence. The uncanny sense of being watched when you know you are alone. Ghost stories thrive in these moments—in the spaces where logic fails and imagination takes over.
Perhaps that is why we keep coming back to them. Not just for the thrill, but for the quiet confrontation with our deepest fears—of loss, of the unknown, of what might exist after everything ends. They allow us to experience fear from a safe distance, yet leave a lingering question long after the story ends.
This book is a compilation and translated version of 15 stories from different Bengali authors including Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Syed Mustafa Siraj, Manik Bandopadhyay and others.
Because the most terrifying part is never what you see—
it’s what you begin to believe in the dark
Ghost stories are more than tales of fear—they are echoes of lives unfinished, emotions unresolved, and secrets that refuse to fade with time. They slip quietly into our minds, blurring the line between what is real and what lurks just beyond our understanding. Whether set in crumbling mansions, forgotten graveyards, or mist-covered villages, these stories carry an eerie familiarity that makes them impossible to ignore.
What truly haunts us is not always the ghost itself, but the feeling it leaves behind. The soft creak of a door with no one there. The sudden drop in silence. The uncanny sense of being watched when you know you are alone. Ghost stories thrive in these moments—in the spaces where logic fails and imagination takes over.
Perhaps that is why we keep coming back to them. Not just for the thrill, but for the quiet confrontation with our deepest fears—of loss, of the unknown, of what might exist after everything ends. They allow us to experience fear from a safe distance, yet leave a lingering question long after the story ends.
This book is a compilation and translated version of 15 stories from different Bengali authors including Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Syed Mustafa Siraj, Manik Bandopadhyay and others.
Because the most terrifying part is never what you see—
it’s what you begin to believe in the dark
January 23, 2024
It is always a pleasure to read good stories by Indian authors. So when I got this book, it was a happy surprise for me! There is a great nostalgia in reading classic authors specially Indian. It makes me realize that there is still so much to read and explore!
The book, Best Ghost Stories from Bengal, is a collection of spooky ghost stories written by Rabindranath Tagore, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay etc. and translated by Barnali Saha. There are few stories which my grandfather used to read to me while I was a kid and some I am reading for the first time! Classic Stories are always a gem for literature of all languages and this book is a reminder of that. Out of all the stories, I loved reading Station named Ghum Ghumi, The Conflagration at Sea, Hell Express etc. Though I liked each and every one of them!
All these stories are beautiful and give a pinch of local flavour to all readers. Since I have read and heard few of these stories as narrated to me by my grandfather, I was overjoyed and contented to read this book. I read mostly at nightbefore sleeping and it increased the thrill of reading this book and it's stories. If you are looking for a thrilling book with local flavours, do pick this one and you will be happy to read! If you do so, share your reviews!
The book, Best Ghost Stories from Bengal, is a collection of spooky ghost stories written by Rabindranath Tagore, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay etc. and translated by Barnali Saha. There are few stories which my grandfather used to read to me while I was a kid and some I am reading for the first time! Classic Stories are always a gem for literature of all languages and this book is a reminder of that. Out of all the stories, I loved reading Station named Ghum Ghumi, The Conflagration at Sea, Hell Express etc. Though I liked each and every one of them!
All these stories are beautiful and give a pinch of local flavour to all readers. Since I have read and heard few of these stories as narrated to me by my grandfather, I was overjoyed and contented to read this book. I read mostly at nightbefore sleeping and it increased the thrill of reading this book and it's stories. If you are looking for a thrilling book with local flavours, do pick this one and you will be happy to read! If you do so, share your reviews!
January 24, 2024
Rainy January and depressingly sunless: the perfect time for some ghost stories.
I have grown up on a healthy dose of Bengali ghost stories. To find a translation of those familiar tales is a happy nostalgia that has transported me to 2014. This collection not only makes a great gift for all the non Bengali reader friends I have, but also comtributes to the richness of Bengali literature.
The collection contains many short stories that talk of ghosts, monsters and spirits from the heart of Bengal. They range from horrific ghosts to benevolent spirits, and even funny tales of Mahesh babu realising ghosts are real when he dies!
The stories are also a great dialogue on the society that was in the early 20th century Bengal, and to return to the decrepit little train stations or stormy nights in the city is a pleasure I had forgotten.
If you are waiting to find a good Bengali book translated in English, get this. The language is easy and well translated, with helpful glossaries at the end of each story. If the vampires and werewolfs of Europe have impressed you, take a taste of Bengal's shakchunnis, tantriks and shoshan bhoot here.
I have grown up on a healthy dose of Bengali ghost stories. To find a translation of those familiar tales is a happy nostalgia that has transported me to 2014. This collection not only makes a great gift for all the non Bengali reader friends I have, but also comtributes to the richness of Bengali literature.
The collection contains many short stories that talk of ghosts, monsters and spirits from the heart of Bengal. They range from horrific ghosts to benevolent spirits, and even funny tales of Mahesh babu realising ghosts are real when he dies!
The stories are also a great dialogue on the society that was in the early 20th century Bengal, and to return to the decrepit little train stations or stormy nights in the city is a pleasure I had forgotten.
If you are waiting to find a good Bengali book translated in English, get this. The language is easy and well translated, with helpful glossaries at the end of each story. If the vampires and werewolfs of Europe have impressed you, take a taste of Bengal's shakchunnis, tantriks and shoshan bhoot here.
May 9, 2026
The book is a simple and interesting collection of 15 short stories. Each story is different, but all have that slightly scary and mysterious feel.
What I liked is that the stories are not over the top. They slowly build fear, sometimes through normal situations like old houses, quiet lanes, or family homes, which makes them feel more real. A few stories really stay in your mind even after finishing, while some are just nice, quick reads you can finish in one sitting.
The writing style is very easy to follow, and it doesn’t try too hard to sound complicated. It feels like someone is narrating these incidents in a calm way, which actually makes the creepy parts stronger. Some stories also have a small emotional touch, not just fear, which adds a nice balance.
Since it has 15 stories, you don’t get bored—if one feels slow, the next one picks up with a different idea or setting. I also liked how the background of Bengal is shown naturally through the stories, without forcing it.
Overall, it’s a good book if you enjoy short ghost stories that focus more on mood, small details, and that lingering uneasy feeling rather than loud horror.
What I liked is that the stories are not over the top. They slowly build fear, sometimes through normal situations like old houses, quiet lanes, or family homes, which makes them feel more real. A few stories really stay in your mind even after finishing, while some are just nice, quick reads you can finish in one sitting.
The writing style is very easy to follow, and it doesn’t try too hard to sound complicated. It feels like someone is narrating these incidents in a calm way, which actually makes the creepy parts stronger. Some stories also have a small emotional touch, not just fear, which adds a nice balance.
Since it has 15 stories, you don’t get bored—if one feels slow, the next one picks up with a different idea or setting. I also liked how the background of Bengal is shown naturally through the stories, without forcing it.
Overall, it’s a good book if you enjoy short ghost stories that focus more on mood, small details, and that lingering uneasy feeling rather than loud horror.
May 20, 2026
An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories selected and translated by Barnalisaha is a collection of fifteen stories which keeps the readers hooked till the end. There are stories from authors like Manilal Gangopadhyay, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Rohan Roy, Himadri Kishore Dasgupta and Syed Mustafa Siraj.
It is a haunting and spooky read by multiple writers. The author has done a fantastic job of translating them. Each story is eerie and catches the reader's attention. The language used is lucid and easy to understand. It is a simple and interesting read. The writing style is unique and flawless. In some stories, there is also an emotional touch apart from fear. The part I loved is that this scary tales has a touch of cultural depth. These are the stories from Bengali literature. These stories give shape to fears, memories and losses. Each story is written in an amazing way which keeps us glued to the page. This anthology of multiple writers is thrilling, spooky and will amuse the readers. Overall, I loved this book and would strongly recommend it to all.
It is a haunting and spooky read by multiple writers. The author has done a fantastic job of translating them. Each story is eerie and catches the reader's attention. The language used is lucid and easy to understand. It is a simple and interesting read. The writing style is unique and flawless. In some stories, there is also an emotional touch apart from fear. The part I loved is that this scary tales has a touch of cultural depth. These are the stories from Bengali literature. These stories give shape to fears, memories and losses. Each story is written in an amazing way which keeps us glued to the page. This anthology of multiple writers is thrilling, spooky and will amuse the readers. Overall, I loved this book and would strongly recommend it to all.
May 20, 2026
🍁Book:- Best Ghost Stories From Bengal
🍁Author:- Barnali Saha
🍁Publication:- Bee Books
🍁Printed Price:- Rs. 399/-
It is an anthology of Bengali horror stories translated into English featuring supernatural elements, raw human emotions and tantric procedures. The best part of the book is that there are stories of eminent Bengali writers such as Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Hemendra Kumar Roy, Panchkari Dey, Avik Mukhopadhyay, Himadri Kishore Dasgupta and many more. Though I have not read these particular stories in Bengali, reading some of my favourite authors in a translation is a bit special for me. From the spooky world of Tantra to the spine chilling ambience with the presence of the unearthly creatures, this book will definitely attract the fans of the horror genre.
Each story of the book is hooking enough in a different way but still some of the stories such as "The Kaak Baba's Companion", "The Spirit of Azamgarh" and "The Birdhouse" feel like something extraordinary. The language of the translation is easy to understand throughout the book and its presentation doesn't feel forceful. It is enjoyable overall and highly educated.
🍁Author:- Barnali Saha
🍁Publication:- Bee Books
🍁Printed Price:- Rs. 399/-
It is an anthology of Bengali horror stories translated into English featuring supernatural elements, raw human emotions and tantric procedures. The best part of the book is that there are stories of eminent Bengali writers such as Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Hemendra Kumar Roy, Panchkari Dey, Avik Mukhopadhyay, Himadri Kishore Dasgupta and many more. Though I have not read these particular stories in Bengali, reading some of my favourite authors in a translation is a bit special for me. From the spooky world of Tantra to the spine chilling ambience with the presence of the unearthly creatures, this book will definitely attract the fans of the horror genre.
Each story of the book is hooking enough in a different way but still some of the stories such as "The Kaak Baba's Companion", "The Spirit of Azamgarh" and "The Birdhouse" feel like something extraordinary. The language of the translation is easy to understand throughout the book and its presentation doesn't feel forceful. It is enjoyable overall and highly educated.
January 23, 2024
An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal
This book is a collection of 20 short stories from various writers from 1838-1938. These stories were originally written in Bengali and in this collection the author has translated them into English.
Among the 20 stories there's at least 2 stories that would make you laugh, at least they were funny to me. Others will leave you lost in thought trying to figure out what exactly happened and then others that would leave you with a spine chilling sensation.
The English translation is well done. The atmosphere of the original story is being well constructed. Some of the stories can easily engulf you into their mystics. I was glad to see that the translator was able to keep the Bengali essence of the stories intact. As someone from Bengal I really appreciate that.
It's an easy and interesting read. I also liked how at the end of the stories there were definitions of the few regional words that were used. I even read a few of the stories to my younger siblings and they loved it too.
You know to keep track of my favourite stories I was drawing stars on the index page and now while writing this review as I was consulting it I've realised I enjoyed reading this book. Except for 2-3 stories that I did not like, everything else I've given 4-5 stars.
I would recommend reading this as a bonding activity for siblings and children. It's worth a read.
This book is a collection of 20 short stories from various writers from 1838-1938. These stories were originally written in Bengali and in this collection the author has translated them into English.
Among the 20 stories there's at least 2 stories that would make you laugh, at least they were funny to me. Others will leave you lost in thought trying to figure out what exactly happened and then others that would leave you with a spine chilling sensation.
The English translation is well done. The atmosphere of the original story is being well constructed. Some of the stories can easily engulf you into their mystics. I was glad to see that the translator was able to keep the Bengali essence of the stories intact. As someone from Bengal I really appreciate that.
It's an easy and interesting read. I also liked how at the end of the stories there were definitions of the few regional words that were used. I even read a few of the stories to my younger siblings and they loved it too.
You know to keep track of my favourite stories I was drawing stars on the index page and now while writing this review as I was consulting it I've realised I enjoyed reading this book. Except for 2-3 stories that I did not like, everything else I've given 4-5 stars.
I would recommend reading this as a bonding activity for siblings and children. It's worth a read.
May 22, 2026
"An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories" is a haunting collection of Bengali culture and tradition. Despite not belonging to the place, I was able to feel the horror and fear amongst people. It helped me visit the ghostly tales of women in family histories.
It comprises 15 stories written by different writers. Though all the stories made me feel the essence of supernatural powers and the lingering echoes of history, I liked "The Jack of Hearts", "The Road Ends Here", "Burnt Turmeric" and many more.
The haunting narratives are complemented by vivid descriptions that transport readers into the eerie landscapes, especially of rural Bengal. The authors have meticulously blended the emotions of people with the fear of ghosts. Each author has made this essence of horror palpable.
Overall, this is a haunting collection of Bengali ghost stories. It made me recite the name of Shiv Shambu all the time while reading this book.
It comprises 15 stories written by different writers. Though all the stories made me feel the essence of supernatural powers and the lingering echoes of history, I liked "The Jack of Hearts", "The Road Ends Here", "Burnt Turmeric" and many more.
The haunting narratives are complemented by vivid descriptions that transport readers into the eerie landscapes, especially of rural Bengal. The authors have meticulously blended the emotions of people with the fear of ghosts. Each author has made this essence of horror palpable.
Overall, this is a haunting collection of Bengali ghost stories. It made me recite the name of Shiv Shambu all the time while reading this book.
May 23, 2024
This slim little book immediately caught my eye the minute I walked into the bookstore. Translated by Barnali Saha, the book has twenty delicious tales of the supernatural from Bengal. IMO, there are ghost stories, and then there are ghost stories from Bengal. Maybe I’m biased, but such is the rich storytelling tradition of Bengal.
The stories do their job well and are comforting (in a way only ghost stories can be) and feel as intimate as frightening stories told to you by your grandmother at bedtime (the best time for eerie tales).
Filled with vivid narratives, the stories delve into Bengali ghost folklore, and give you a front row view of the paranormal and occult.
If you are someone who loves a good ghost story, and Bengali literature, please read this book.
The stories do their job well and are comforting (in a way only ghost stories can be) and feel as intimate as frightening stories told to you by your grandmother at bedtime (the best time for eerie tales).
Filled with vivid narratives, the stories delve into Bengali ghost folklore, and give you a front row view of the paranormal and occult.
If you are someone who loves a good ghost story, and Bengali literature, please read this book.
May 26, 2026
This book is a small anthology of 15 scary ghost stories with an atmosphere of suspense and mystery. These ghost stories are very captivating as the author slowly builds up the fear which is felt after reading them.
There are some scary stories that are rather brief, and others that will remain unforgettable after reading them. The stories' narration is interesting and entertaining, with a variety of eerie settings like haunted huts, empty streets, or ordinary family houses. Moreover, some of the stories have additional aspects other than fear, adding an emotional touch to them.
The style of writing is simple but interesting, and all stories are clear. Nevertheless, at the same time, they keep readers immersed into each scene because of descriptive details. The ghost stories are short, yet captivating.
I would recommend this wonderful collection of ghost stories for readers who are fond of such books. They are interesting and can make the atmosphere at home truly spooky
There are some scary stories that are rather brief, and others that will remain unforgettable after reading them. The stories' narration is interesting and entertaining, with a variety of eerie settings like haunted huts, empty streets, or ordinary family houses. Moreover, some of the stories have additional aspects other than fear, adding an emotional touch to them.
The style of writing is simple but interesting, and all stories are clear. Nevertheless, at the same time, they keep readers immersed into each scene because of descriptive details. The ghost stories are short, yet captivating.
I would recommend this wonderful collection of ghost stories for readers who are fond of such books. They are interesting and can make the atmosphere at home truly spooky
February 1, 2024
A great book covering intriguing tales from Bengal. On-point translations and witty selection of tales make it a must-read for everyone. You get to know a lot about the mystic tales of Bengal with varied aspects of its unique folklore. Nowhere will you get to feel any gap in the translation part. Yes, it vividly captures every detail of the stories. A truly 5 star read!
February 7, 2024
I am what you may call a horror enthusiast. So when I picked up this book, I knew I won't be disappointed. And I wasn't!
An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal, published by @bee.books , has the perfect selection of short horror stories from Bengal. It has short stories written by Hemandra Kumar Ray to the great horror master Syed Mustafa Siraj.
There were some stories which I had heard when I was young kid and it was quite a nostalgic experience for me to revisit them again!
I found the translation to be quite good and the language was easy to understand. My favourite from the lot was -
1. Station Named Ghum Ghumiye by Syed Mustafa Siraj
2. Who was She by Hemendra Kumar Ray
3. Bhusandi's Field by Parasuram
It is a perfect pick if you are in the mood for the chills!
An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal, published by @bee.books , has the perfect selection of short horror stories from Bengal. It has short stories written by Hemandra Kumar Ray to the great horror master Syed Mustafa Siraj.
There were some stories which I had heard when I was young kid and it was quite a nostalgic experience for me to revisit them again!
I found the translation to be quite good and the language was easy to understand. My favourite from the lot was -
1. Station Named Ghum Ghumiye by Syed Mustafa Siraj
2. Who was She by Hemendra Kumar Ray
3. Bhusandi's Field by Parasuram
It is a perfect pick if you are in the mood for the chills!
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