The ASCENT An Occasional Diary – SAROJESH MUKERJEE

Embark on a hilarious and thought-provoking journey through the labyrinth of politics and corruption in The Ascent, a satirical gem disguised as the journal of a novice player in the political game. Our protagonist, the narrator, a real-estate developer fed up with local suppliers Chuno and Puti’s insolence, unwittingly gets mired in the world of dirty deals and backroom schemes. With rib tickling humour, he exposes the tangled web of of the developer-politician nexus, all the while navigating his blossoming romance with the neighbourhood beauty, the aptly named Sweety. Set against the backdrop of contemporary Kolkata, we meet an enchanting yet easily recognizable cast of characters- s-from the mischievous Hada and Bhoda to the wily yet loyal Jagai and Madhai, from the cantankerous Bag Lady to the ambitious Subramaniams who want to sell their house and move abroad-all woven seamlessly into the fabric of this colourful tale. As our protagonist’s wealth and influence grow, he catches the eye of political power players, which propels him into a whirlwind of opportunities and challenges. Each calculated move is greeted by a stroke of luck, and he ascends the greasy pole of politics, reaching heights beyond his wildest dreams. The Ascent is a sharp-witted, laugh-out-loud, unmissable exploration of ambition, love, and the murky depths of politics and privilege that speaks eloquently quently of our times.