Parineeta (Hindi, Paperback, Chattopadhyay Saratchandra)

Set in Calcutta, India, in the early twentieth century, Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's Parineeta is a bittersweet tale of love, which explores social issues related to religion and class and how they affect a woman's dignity and self-respect. When Shekhar Roy, the son of a rich and an unscrupulous businessman, and Lalita, the orphan girl who lives with her poor uncle, secretly exchange garlands, they consider themselves man and wife. Being neighbours, their families have shared a warm and friendly relationship. But Shekhar, knowing that his father will never accept this marriage due to the differences in status and religion, is unable to accept it. What will become of their love and marriage? Will they ever be together?