Sholok

There are numerous books on Bengali proverbs yet hardly any documentation of ‘shlok’ or alliterated verses. In the present day, ‘shlok’ commonly denotes religious hymns and phrases but truthfully, throughout ages, the prevalence of everyday ‘sholok’ has been omnipresent. These lyrical and melodious couplets are not only soothing to the ear but embody the rich historical,cultural and social landscape of Bengal and are concurrently demonstrative of the wit and wisdom of Bengali intellect. Lack of research has almost wiped their individual existence and led them to be merged with the broader segment of proverbs. Subhash and Kajol Das have put in years of research on this glorious verbal art and from their extensive collection compiled 1111 ‘Sholok’ in this book. Each ‘Sholok’ is chronologically arranged and is accompanied by an explanation on its origin and usage , in the format of a short essay. Everything is written in modern-day Bengali language for easy comprehension. A landmark book that will be monumental for all generations to come.