The Devil's Teacup and Other Ghost Stories

by Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, Prasun Roy (Translator)

A thrilling anthology of thirteen bone-chilling tales that delve into the realms of ghosts, the paranormal, and the supernatural. From malevolent apparitions lurking in the shadows to foreboding omens that foreshadow unimaginable horrors, each story in this collection will make you question the boundaries of reality and what lies beyond. Masterfully weaved narratives to send shivers down your spine.

● Each tale provides a reading experience filled with suspense, mystery, and atmospheric tension.

● The stories offer a different facet of the supernatural or paranormal.

● A collection of horror stories that have emerged from Bengali literature and have been translated into English for the first time.

● Written by the author of Pather Panchali and Aparajito.

● Offers a diverse range of ghost stories—from vengeful spirits to haunted houses, from paranormal encounters to supernatural manifestations, and much more.

Genres: Short Stories, Horror

192 pages, Paperback

Published June 23, 2024

About the author

This author has secondary bangla profile-বিভূতিভূষণ বন্দ্যোপাধ্যায়.

Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay (Bangla: বিভূতিভূষণ বন্দ্যোপাধ্যায়) was an Indian Bangali author and one of the leading writers of modern Bangla literature. His best known work is the autobiographical novel, Pather Panchali: Song of the Road which was later adapted (along with Aparajito, the sequel) into the Apu Trilogy films, directed by Satyajit Ray.

The 1951 Rabindra Puraskar, the most prestigious literary award in the West Bengal state of India, was posthumously awarded to Bibhutibhushan for his novel ইছামতী.

Reviews

[Book_withquotes · Rating 5 out of 5]

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Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay (1894–1950), an acclaimed Indian author, is celebrated for his profound influence on Bengali literature. Best known for his masterpiece “Pather Panchali,” Bandyopadhyay’s works vividly capture Bengal's rural landscapes and human experiences. His storytelling is imbued with an innate connection to nature, portraying the beauty and challenges of rural life. Bandyopadhyay’s poignant narratives delve into the complexities of human relationships and the relentless cycle of life. The sheer simplicity and emotional depth in his writing have left an enduring impact, solidifying his legacy as one of Bengal’s literary giants.

The Devil’s Teacup and Other Ghost Stories is an anthology of short translated stories by Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, translated by Prasun Roy. Every story in this anthology touches on that theme, sometimes more directly than others. It’s unusual for me to like almost every story in an anthology as much as I did the stories herein. I was somewhat surprisingly impressed with the level of writing and unique perspectives and particularly enjoyed “The Shadowy Portrait” and obviously “The Devil’s Teacup”.

I loved the variety of stories and authors have brought together for this anthology, taking us through so many different styles of horror fiction, from the serious to the poignant to the just plain fun. Whatever your tastes, I think you will find something here to love. A perfect collection for those brief moments in time – commutes, lunch breaks – where you just need a tempting distraction. Fans of scary ghost stories and supernatural horror are in for a treat with this anthology!

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

What better way to get to know a culture than through a selection of short stories sounding almost exactly like paranormal encounters regular Bengali people could tell. I've appreciated how much of the layers and layers of different cultures would shine through each one. It is a good selection too, where anyone could find something to their liking between: cursed objects, ghosts from different eras, mythological creatures, and even an ancient goddess.

To be honest, it's better to read as a collection of folk tales than horror stories. Only one story genuinely terrified me: Curious Case of the Paranormal Medal, though Gandaghar's Calamity where the entire situation would have been scary even without the paranormal element, and A Paranormal Illusion with its remarkably eerie atmosphere came close too.

[Saumya Singh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Had I read it as a kid, would've loved it.
But now we have been exposed to far more complex scary stories

[Shweta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally written in Bengali, these short stories have been masterfully translated into English for the first time. They showcase the brilliance of Bandyopadhyay's storytelling, capturing the essence of Bengali folklore and tradition. Each story provides a glimpse into the supernatural beliefs and cultural nuances of the Indian subcontinent, adding a unique flavor to the horror genre.

From vengeful spirits haunting ancient mansions to eerie apparitions roaming shadowy streets, each story in this anthology offers a unique exploration of the supernatural. Bandyopadhyay weaves intricate narratives filled with suspense, mystery, and atmospheric tension, creating a haunting ambiance that lingers long after reading.

One of my favourite story in the collection is 'The Sword of Ronkini Devi,' which tells the tale of a haunted temple of a mystical devi, who was believed to raise an alert for village people whenever a severe epidemic was about to strike their village.

The description of Devi, her sword and the haunting atmosphere created around her presence gave me an immersive experience reading it.

These stories challenge the boundaries of reality, blurring the lines between the tangible and the ethereal. The tales delve into the depths of human fear and superstition, uncovering the primal instincts that make us vulnerable to the unknown.

The author's exploration of the supernatural isn't merely about jump scares or thrills. He delves into the psychological impact of fear, the anxieties that linger in the human mind, and the power of the unseen to shape our perception of reality. The stories are often rooted in the social and cultural fabric of Bengal, adding a layer of authenticity and intrigue.

The Devil's Teacup and Other Ghost Stories' is a must-read for fans of the genre, offering a unique and refreshingly original take on the supernatural.

[Rajendra Kumar · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Devil's Teacup and Other Ghost Stories" is a gripping anthology of bone-chilling tales that will leave you questioning the boundaries of reality and the supernatural world🌍. Written by renowned Bengali author Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay and translated by Prasun Roy, this collection of thirteen stories takes readers on a journey through the realms of ghosts👻, the paranormal👿, and the unknown.

What sets this collection apart is its diversity. Each story explores a different facet of the paranormal or supernatural. The author's ability to build anticipation and evoke fear😨 is truly exceptional, making this anthology an absolute delight for fans of the horror genre.

Author Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay's writing style is atmospheric and captivating, building suspense and mystery throughout each tale. From the first page, readers will find themselves engrossed in the dark and eerie world of the supernatural. Overall, "The Devil's Teacup and Other Ghost Stories" is a thrilling anthology that combines suspense, mystery, and the supernatural to create an unforgettable reading experience💖

[Sanjeeva Maithani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read only Tagore and Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay, I was looking forward to reading another great writer and that too a very different genre. I was not at all disappointed. The stories are simple yet make you feel uneasy deep inside. The backdrop of Bengal 70 years ago adds to the mystery. You feel transported to an era where bullock carts, trains , letters were how people moved themselves or information, in small towns where the belief in the supernatural was very strong. Prasun has done a fantastic job of translating not just the Bengal of 1950's but also characters who are husband, wives, aunts, uncles ,their relations , their reactions to events. Be it the tantric who is instructed by a spirit to let a child due or a cursed teacup or a poor man who is rescued from abject poverty to live in a house full of ghosts ( and is happy), the stories are all simple yet beautifully translated. A must read for Indian horror fiction fans.

[Jackulin Peraira · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Devil' s Teacup and Other Ghost stories
The writing is stimulating and fast paced moreover it's presented beautifully as well making you turn the page at warp speed. Not every story was scary, but it was filled with mystery, danger, doom, evilness and disturbing.

Each story reminds us how little control we actually have, the writing is spine chilling and each story left me feeling unsettled at the same time fascinated me to delve deeper into the stories. The author has done a commendable job,I didn't know where Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay would take the story next, and as the story naturally unfolded I was stupified. It gave me chills, the words and world building is so profound and I was lost in a mind bending spell.

I am not big on the horror and gore stories but this book, is a game changer for me.

[Aryan Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay's "The Devil's Teacup and Other Ghost Stories" is an engrossing trip into the paranormal that combines classic ghost stories with moving human tales. The cultural context of Bandyopadhyay's storytelling is rich, evoking the people and places of Bengal.

There's more to the author's investigation of the paranormal than just jump scares and excitement. He explores the psychological effects of dread, persistent concerns, and how the invisible might affect how we perceive the world.


The collection showcases Bandyopadhyay's skill as a storyteller and his deep understanding of human emotions and fears. For fans of ghost stories and classic literature, this book is a real treasure mine of suspense and folklore that is sure to leave a lasting impact.

Highly recommended

[Asha Seth · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this anthology, the author marries the eerie with the poignant, highlighting the author's genius in creating chilling stories through atmospheric tension sans the traditional elements of horror. The 13 stories set in the realms of paranormal and supernatural, bring out the cultural nuances of early 20th-century Bengal and how! Author doesn't rely on jump scares but rather builds a quiet, creeping unease through settings and eccentric plots, reflective of human emotions, moral dilemmas, or societal critiques.

This is a well-written anthology, with tales that linger in the reader’s mind for the author’s imaginative prowess and richness of language. The thrill here is more psychological than philosophical or physical, and that makes this a promising venture for enthusiasts of the genre, and also for those new to the genre.

[Rohan · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Devil's Teacup and Other Ghost Stories" by Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay offers a captivating journey into the supernatural, blending traditional ghost lore with poignant human experiences. Bandyopadhyay's storytelling is rich in cultural context, bringing the landscapes and ethos of Bengal to life. The collection's strength lies in its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and dread simultaneously. Stories like "The Devil's Teacup" are masterfully woven, with a balance of suspense and subtlety that keeps readers hooked.

The author's nuanced portrayal of characters and their interactions with the supernatural realm adds depth to each tale. This book is a must-read for those who appreciate well-crafted ghost stories with a touch of cultural richness, making it a standout in the genre.

[शिवम् सिंह · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book's captivating story and rich pictures make it a delightful read. The reader is drawn in by the stories' captivating folkloric or paranormal elements, even if not all of them are really scary. A strong sense of resolve is intended to be evoked in readers by each of the book's stories. Along with thrilling moments, it offers a deep sense of empathy for the individuals and their journeys.

This incredibly captivating book will pique your interest throughout thanks to its intriguing blend of paranormal themes and rich cultural backgrounds.

Despite the occasional repetition, the overall experience is incredibly fulfilling, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates delving into the unusual and the uncanny.

Highly recommended

[Sai · Rating 5 out of 5]

The horror and the terror is endless but the stories that will bring either from folk and thriller stories are interesting.


Recently i have read one such captivating thriller that has many crucial and riveting missions of paranormal and curious stories that author has shared from his experiences.

Tales from various segments of Bengal has been narrated in this title one such stories I liked much is the scared tale in the middle of Sundarbans lane in the waters which is called as the A Fabled Curse and another one is 'The sword of Ronkini Devi' .

These are not very scary but very grippy and captivating that will fill the minds of readers with enthusiasm and determination.

[Sonu · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book contains a number of really frightening stories, all of them are packed with mystery, danger, doom, and eerie themes. For those quick occasions when you need a riveting diversion, like during your lunch breaks or on the way to work, this book is ideal. I was left guessing until the very end, which is a testament to the author's skillful integration of unexpected turns into their storytelling style. The author has done a fantastic job.

I was shocked as the plot naturally developed because I had no idea where Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay would take the story next. The translation is excellent; it captures the spirit of the original stories just perfectly.

[Anjana Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

The compelling storyline and rich visuals in this book make it a delightful read. Ghost stories are told throughout the book. Each story is expertly crafted, showcasing the author's talent for fusing horror with nuanced elements of mythology and culture. The author's masterful storytelling vividly captures every moment, engrossing readers in the unfolding drama and the palpable tension of the characters' travels.

Readers will experience the same creepy mood that the author intended thanks to the translation's outstanding capture of the essence of the original works. many gratitude to this collection, which honors him so warmly.

[Jenny Writes · Rating 5 out of 5]

If horror stories are something you can't get over with and engaging into the world of mystery and suspense,is your cup of tea; then this is the read I'd definitely recommend to be.

Penned with uniqueness and intensity,the book is a collection of short stories filled with bone chilling horror that goes beyond one's imagination.

Each story has its own genuine aura that engages you and make you imagine the depth of the characters experiences written out of great interest.
I personally enjoyed each story but the one I was awestruck with was 'The Unexplained'.
You'd definitely savour the read whole heartedly. Impressive and phenomenal read of a kind.

[Shraddha · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. (Goodreads should give an option to rate half a star as well, no?)

A delectable treat for horror nerds. Fires up your imagination with wonderful imagery and storytelling. Not all stories are spooky; some have a supernatural element, while some have intriguing folklore.
The writer has ended several stories with unanswered questions, it becomes repetitive after a while if you are reading the book in one go. But overall, the stories were wonderfully crafted, also, thanks to the deft translation. Overall, horror nerds should give it a read.

[Amreen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The stories in this collection are written by a variety of authors and woven together in an intricate web of horror fiction genres.

Every reader can find something to fascinate them, whether they choose to explore the profound, the spooky, or the pleasantly humorous.

This book is perfect for brief moments when you require a captivating distraction, such as during your lunch breaks or while commuting.

The variety of spine-tingling stories in this book will please readers who enjoy supernatural horror and spooky ghost stories.

[Ammu · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writing in The Devil's Teacup and Other Ghost Stories is appealing and fast-paced, with a stunning presentation that makes you want to turn pages quickly.

Even though not all of the stories are incredibly scary, they are all full of mystery, danger, gloom, and unsettling themes.

All the stories tell us that we have very little control over the unknown. The writing is disturbing and leaves the reader with a sense of both unease and intrigue that begs for a closer look at each story.

[Richa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though I'm not a big fan of gory or scary stories, this book has changed my perspective on them.

It is immensely fascinating because of the never-ending fear and terror it provokes as well as its engrossing folk and thriller narratives.

Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay's narrative style is praiseworthy as it effectively integrates unexpected turns, leaving me guessing till the very end.

Words create such rich realms in this captivating encounter that I was engrossed in a mind-bending spell.

[Rekha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently finished reading a gripping novel that combines strange anecdotes from the author's personal experiences with otherworldly mystery.

The book is a compilation of stories, each full of mystery and suspense, that are set against Bengal's rich cultural background.

One of the stories that really caught my attention is called "A Fabled Curse," and it takes place in the midst of the Sundarbans.

This story captures the spooky ambiance and the unexplained happenings that take place in the Sundarbans while weaving a terrifying yet interesting tale set among the rivers.

[Priyanka · Rating 5 out of 5]

For readers who enjoy horror, this novel is a pleasant treat because of its vivid imagery and gripping narrative. Even while not all of the stories are terrifying, they all include intriguing folklore or paranormal components that draw the reader in.

Even if some of the stories end with unresolved questions, the author has a special gift for creating stories that stick in the memory.

Every scene is brought to life by the author's brilliant narrative, drawing readers into the drama that is developing and the tangible tension of the characters' journeys.

[Abhishek · Rating 4 out of 5]

The works of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay, especially his collection of horror short stories, are brilliantly portrayed in this book.

With its variety of stories, this carefully chosen collection enthrals fans of the genre. The translation expertly captures the spirit of the original pieces, guaranteeing that readers will encounter the same eerie atmosphere that the author intended.

Readers across the country can now enjoy the well-known horror stories of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay thanks to this anthology, which pays homage to him with great affection.

[Misha Kumari · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each of the stories in the book is mysterious and suspenseful. This narrative tells a terrible but intriguing tale set amid the rivers, perfectly capturing the eerie atmosphere and strange incidents that occur in the Sundarbans. Along with thrilling moments, it offers a deep sense of empathy for the individuals and their journeys.

The author's masterful storytelling captivates readers with the unfolding drama and the palpable tension of the characters' travels. The overall experience—despite the occasional repetition—is incredibly fulfilling.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Devil’s Teacup and Other Ghost Stories," a collection of short stories that Prasun Roy translated from Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay’s writings, explores the issue of the paranormal in great detail.

This collection of stories tackles this issue in different ways for each story, but what surprised me was how much I liked almost every story in it.

I was struck not only by the anthology's superb writing but also by its distinct viewpoints on the paranormal.

[Yati · Rating 5 out of 5]

The stories in the book are all packed with mystery and suspense and are set against the rich cultural backdrop of Bengal. An intriguing book that mixes bizarre tales from the author's own encounters with unexplained mystery.In addition to telling a horrifying but intriguing tale set amid the rivers, this novel effectively conveys the eerie atmosphere and mysterious incidents that occur in the Sundarbans.

[Indrajeet · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Devil's Teacup" enthralled me with its unquestionable attraction, while "The Shadowy Portrait" stood out for its complex narrative among the stories.

This collection of thirteen well selected stories captures the enduring charm and eerie beauty that characterise classic horror fiction.

[Aruna Kumar Gadepalli · Rating 4 out of 5]

A collection of 13 stories translated from Bengali. Stories that will make readers wonder about the narration and the storytelling style of the author.

[Roger O · Rating 3 out of 5]

read more like ghostly folk tales/parables. the narrative arcs feel a bit repetitive but there's a lot of descriptive imagery that works really well.

[Avni · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a really good book that gave me chills. I would say the best way to read it would be in a quite place and letting the stories wash over you.