In this inimitable title, “UNBANKED — A Place That Is Rarely On Map & A Bank That Is Everywhere” author Sudeepta Ranjan Kalita chronicles his transformative journey from a seasoned banker to a resilient survivor in the remote town of Yingkiong, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas on the Indo-China border. This gripping travelogue and life experience narrative offers the readers a compelling glimpse into the challenges and triumphs faced by the author during his tenure as a Probationary Officer at the National Bank of India. Interestingly, the manner in which the author had carried out the task of storytelling in his book is captivating enough to make the readers quench for more with every turn of the page, and this is something that actually makes this title reading worthy!
Having backpacked through over two hundred locations in the past decade, author Sudeepta Ranjan Kalita has worn many hats. They have been a banker, a solo motorcycle adventurer on some of the world’s most challenging roads, an amateur photographer, and a teacher. The author has also founded a library, which offers free books and a coaching centre that provides free training to the students who are aspiring for the banking jobs. Living on the fringes of the society and shouldering the immense responsibility of an entire district during the tumultuous period of demonetisation ignited a writer within Sudeepta. Interestingly, through this very book, Sudeepta marks his debut as an author. Well, this particular title, “UNBANKED — A Place That Is Rarely On Map & A Bank That Is Everywhere” is published by Evincepub Publishing and is released in June 2024. Also, the book is available in both paperback as well as in e-book format and the readers can find this learning worthy title on all the top online marketplaces.
This one of a kind novel, “UNBANKED — A Place That Is Rarely On Map & A Bank That Is Everywhere” opens with Kalita’s assignment to Yingkiong, which is fraught with the challenges from the outset. The treacherous roads and unpredictable weather create a formidable backdrop for his new role as an accountant and service manager. The town’s insufficient infrastructure and unreliable technology further complicate his efforts to manage the bank branch effectively. Despite these obstacles, Kalita’s resilience shines through as he grapples with his responsibilities, often without the adequate training or support. His determination to uphold the integrity and fairness in the face of systemic bureaucratic inefficiencies and corrupt practices in loan disbursals is a testament to his character and dedication to his profession!
On top of that the narrative delves deeply into the bureaucratic complexities and inefficiencies that plague the banking system. Kalita’s struggle against the corrupt practices highlights the broader issues within the industry, providing a compelling look at the intersection of personal ethics and professional duty. His commitment to maintaining integrity and fairness, even when it would have been easier to capitulate to corrupt norms, is inspiring and thought-provoking.
Coming to the Readers’ Connect part, it becomes obligatory to mention that the book is written with a unique tone, which indeed makes it a precious read. One of the most poignant elements of this life-experience novel, “Unbanked” is Kalita’s firsthand account of the 52 days of demonetisation and its effects on the common people of India. His observations provide valuable insights into how such policies influence the lives of individuals in remote areas, highlighting the often-overlooked human cost of economic decisions. This adds a significant layer to the narrative, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the broader impact of national events on local communities!
Besides, personal relationships play a crucial role in Kalita’s journey. His connection with Shreya provides much-needed solace amidst his professional struggles. The book underscores the importance of these bonds, illustrating how they can offer support and comfort during times of adversity. Shreya’s dedication and hard work at the branch contribute significantly to the successes Kalita achieves, showcasing the impact of teamwork and mutual support. The portrayal of their relationship adds a layer of warmth and humanity to the narrative, making it more relatable and engaging.
Now, upon reaching the final part of the review, i.e. the Book Verdict, we can conclude that a title like “UNBANKED — A Place That Is Rarely On Map & A Bank That Is Everywhere” is for sure a MUST READ one. The book deserves a chance by the readers as it is a powerful narrative of survival, growth, and resilience. Author Sudeepta Ranjan Kalita’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope and determination. Through his experiences in Yingkiong, Kalita not only illuminates the challenges faced by those in remote areas but also celebrates the capacity for personal and professional growth in the face of adversity. This book is certainly a reading worthy title for anyone seeking an authentic and inspiring account of life on the edge of the civilisation. Kalita’s journey offers valuable lessons in integrity, resilience, and the importance of personal and professional ethics, making this title a deeply enriching and thought-provoking read.
Undoubtedly, Sudeepta Ranjan Kalita is a promising author who is very creative in his ideas, which the readers can feel through his spectacular writings. In addition, his honest work makes this book even more reading worthy!
Book’s Link: https://www.amazon.in/gp/product/935673982X