SHORT DESCRIPTION:

“Amrutaphala” (meaning “The Divine Fruit”) by Manoj Das is a critically acclaimed Odia novel that masterfully blends history. legend, mystery, magic, and realism. It explores themes of existential suffering and the quest for eternal truth through two parallel narratives. One story delves into ancient times, focusing on King Bhartruhari of Ujjain and his profound dilemma after receiving a mystical, immortal fruit – the “Amruta Phala. The other, main narrative, is set in the contemporary age, where a highly successful businessman finds himself grappling with similar existential questions and challenges. The novel is celebrated for its engrossing plot, the seamless intertwining of these two distinct yet logically connected storylines, and Manoj Das’s profound philosophical insights into human nature and destiny. It earned him the prestigious Saraswati Samman in 2001.