Abstract

This article provides a critical exploration of Sankar’s novel, Chowringhee, through a close reading of its English translation. Using Foucault’s exploration of heterotopias, the article delves into the depiction of heterotopic and heterochronic spaces within the novel, uncovering the deep-seated nostalgia evoked by these spaces. The protagonist’s experiences at the Shahjahan Hotel, a heterotopic space that is both foreign and captivating, serve as a focal point, leading to a profound sense of nostalgia for Calcutta’s past. The article is divided into two main sections. The first undertakes a detailed examination of the heterotopic spaces depicted in the novel, while the second delves into the nostalgia these spaces evoke. The characters in Chowringhee are portrayed as navigating a rapidly changing city undergoing transition following colonial rule in India, further intensifying the sense of nostalgia. The article ultimately highlights the novel’s significance in capturing a bygone era of Calcutta.