Description
“The Calcutta Chromosome” is a science fiction novel written by Amitav Ghosh, an Indian author known for his works exploring historical and contemporary themes. Published in 1995, the novel combines elements of mystery, science fiction, and historical fiction to create a complex narrative.
“The Calcutta Chromosome” is set in two different time periods. The primary storyline is set in the near future, in the late 1990s, where Antar, a computer programmer, becomes obsessed with the disappearance of his colleague, L. Murugan. Antar delves into Murugan’s research on Ronald Ross, a British physician who made significant contributions to the study of malaria. As Antar investigates Murugan’s work, he discovers a mysterious and powerful substance called the “Calcutta Chromosome.”
The narrative also includes flashbacks to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when Ronald Ross conducted his groundbreaking research on malaria in Calcutta (now Kolkata), India. Through these historical segments, the novel explores Ross’s scientific discoveries and his interactions with Indian society and culture.
As Antar uncovers the secrets of the Calcutta Chromosome, he becomes entangled in a web of parallel realities, time travel, and a secret society called the “Calcutta Chromosome Club.” The novel blends elements of science fiction, historical fiction, and mythology, creating a complex and thought-provoking narrative that explores themes of scientific exploration, the nature of identity, and the interconnectedness of past and present.
“The Calcutta Chromosome” received critical acclaim for its imaginative storytelling and intricate plot. It won the Arthur C. Clarke Award for Science Fiction in 1997, solidifying Amitav Ghosh’s reputation as a versatile and talented writer. The novel’s unique fusion of science and history provides readers with a captivating exploration of scientific inquiry and its impact on human lives
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