Description
“A Matter of Rats: A Short Biography of Patna” by Amitava Kumar is an evocative and insightful exploration of the city of Patna, the capital of the Indian state of Bihar. Through this short biography, Kumar presents a nuanced and multifaceted portrait of a city that is often overlooked or misrepresented in popular narratives.
Kumar, an acclaimed author and journalist, approaches Patna with both a personal and historical lens. The book opens with a reflection on the ubiquitous presence of rats in Patna, using them as a metaphor for the city’s enduring struggles and resilience. This unique perspective sets the tone for a narrative that is as much about the lived experiences of its inhabitants as it is about the city’s rich and complex history.
The book is structured around a series of vignettes and essays, each shedding light on different aspects of Patna’s identity. Kumar delves into the city’s ancient past, when it was known as Pataliputra and served as a major center of power and culture during the Maurya and Gupta empires. He contrasts this illustrious history with the contemporary realities of Patna, highlighting the challenges of poverty, corruption, and urban decay.
Kumar’s writing is deeply personal, drawing on his own memories of growing up in Patna as well as the stories of other residents. He captures the vibrant chaos of the city’s streets, the resilience and creativity of its people, and the persistent hope that underlies their daily lives. The narrative is enriched by interviews with local artists, activists, and ordinary citizens, whose voices add depth and authenticity to the portrayal of Patna.
Throughout the book, Kumar grapples with the dualities of Patna—its grandeur and squalor, its past and present, its beauty and its flaws. He challenges readers to look beyond the stereotypes and to appreciate the city in all its complexity. “A Matter of Rats” is not just a biography of a city; it is a meditation on the nature of place and identity, and an invitation to see Patna through a compassionate and curious lens.
Amitava Kumar’s “A Matter of Rats: A Short Biography of Patna” is a compelling and thought-provoking read that offers a fresh and intimate perspective on a city with a rich heritage and a challenging present. It is an essential book for anyone interested in urban studies, Indian history, or the power of place in shaping human experience.
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