Intizar Hussain's novel "Basti" tells the story of Zakir, a professor of history in Lahore,

Pakistan. The narrative unfolds in two main timeframes:

● 1971: The story opens in Lahore during the final months leading to the fall of
Dhaka and the Bangladesh Liberation War. This backdrop of political turmoil
prompts Zakir to reflect on his own life.
● Flashbacks: Through memories, Zakir revisits his childhood in Rupnagar, a
peaceful town in India, before the violent partition of India and Pakistan in
1947.

The novel is not a linear account. Hussain employs a fragmented, almost dreamlike
style, mirroring Zakir's own thoughts.

Here are some key aspects of the novel:

● Partition's Impact: The partition of India is a central event that shapes Zakir's
life. He experiences loss, displacement, and the trauma of witnessing
violence.
● Identity and Memory: "Basti" delves into themes of identity and belonging.
Zakir grapples with his sense of self as a Muslim within the context of a newly
formed nation and the historical legacy of Muslims in the subcontinent.
● Marginalized Voices: Hussain offers a perspective from those who are often
overlooked in historical narratives. The focus is on the personal experiences
of ordinary people caught up in larger events.

"Basti" is a powerful exploration of memory, history, and the human cost of political
upheaval.