Sherlock Holmes Day: The classic that inspires generations beyond borders 

May 22nd, the birth date of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the author of Sherlock Holmes novels, has been celebrated as Sherlock Holmes Day worldwide since 2013. 

Holmes has captivated readers since his first appearance in a publication titled 'A Study in Scarlet' in 1887. To think it's almost 140 years since the birth of this great genius! His all-time popularity is prominent in literature and numerous adaptations across movies, television series, and even graphic novels. Holmes' legacy transcends cultures, inspiring a generation of detectives in South Asian literature like Byomkesh Bakshi, Feluda, Kakababu and Masud Rana.

Behind the story of the day

Sherlock Holmes Day is all about celebrating the genius Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and that's why Doyle's outstanding writing became an instant hit.

Sir Doyle was in his late 20s under an existential crisis and sold a short story for £25 — all rights included — to a local publishing house in 1887.  Little did he know that the writing would become a milestone in crime fiction and sell more than 60 million copies since its debut in 1887. He made Sherlock based on an Edinburgh University professor, Dr. Joseph Bell, and his imagination.   

The Omnipresence of Holmes in Pop Culture

Sherlock Holmes has been reconceptualized countless times. Ever since it entered the public domain free of copyright, the character Holmes has fit into various genres and eras. This might spark debate about which adaptation seems better to the viewer's eyes. 

Robert Downey Jr.'s action-packed version in Guy Ritchie's films introduced Holmes to a younger, global audience, blending Victorian charm with contemporary flair.

From Basil Rathbone's classic portrayal to Benedict Cumberbatch's modern twist in Sherlock, each adaptation intensifies the character while keeping the brilliant detective's original essence.

The BBC's 'Sherlock' catapulted Holmes into the 21st century, utilizing modern technology while retaining his legendary deduction skills. 

Influence on Bengali detective fiction 

Sherlock Holmes's brilliance was not confined to the West. His influence is undeniable in South Asia, particularly in India and Bangladesh. Characters like Byomkesh Bakshi, Feluda, and Masud Rana have become cultural icons, each embodying unique elements with fascinating stories. However, the world of detective breathes within them. 

Byomkesh Bakshi: The satyanweshi

Created by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay in 1932, Byomkesh Bakshi is often called the 'Satyanweshi' or truth-seeker. Unlike Holmes, who is a consulting detective, Byomkesh prefers to be called an inquisitor, a seeker of truth. 

Set in pre-independence India, Byomkesh's stories are rich in local flavour and historical context, blending traditional detective work with the social and political nuances of the time.

The TV adaptation of Byomkesh Bakshi in the 1990s brought the character to national prominence, with Rajit Kapur's portrayal becoming iconic. Byomkesh's deductive skills, keen observation, and moral integrity resonate with audiences, mirroring Holmes' traits while remaining distinctly Indian.  

Feluda: The favourite detective of all generations

Satyajit Ray's Feluda, first introduced into the juvenile genre in 1965, is another beloved detective who carries the influence of Sherlock Holmes. Feluda's adventures are thrilling mysteries and cultural explorations because of Ray's storytelling power and authentic description of sites. The character's popularity extends beyond books to successful film adaptations, where Soumitra Chatterjee and later Sabyasachi Chakrabarty brought Feluda to life on the silver screen. 

The detective genre is so popular among teenagers and adults because Satyajit Ray's magic in his writing brings together people of all ages. 

Masud Rana: The Bangladeshi spy

Abdul Hakim and Kazi Anwar Hossain created Masud Rana, a unique combination of James Bond and Sherlock Holmes. It is a fantasy character for many youngsters. First appearing in 1966, Masud Rana has become a symbol of daring and ingenuity in Bangladeshi literature. 

While primarily an action hero and spy, Rana's stories often channel controversial mysteries and intellectual challenges reminiscent of Holmes. 

Legacy of Sherlock Holmes to this day

Sherlock Holmes remains an unmatched legacy to this day. His unparalleled ability to solve problems left a template for detective novelists worldwide. Byomkesh Bakshi, Feluda, and Masud Rana are not mere imitations but tributes to Sir Doyle's masterpiece. 

The quest for truth is a universal pursuit, so the timeless appeal of a great detective story remains unchanged. Whether it's the foggy streets of Victorian London or the bustling alleys of Kolkata and Dhaka, the thrill of unravelling a mystery continues to captivate our imaginations. When we find ourselves indulged in a detective novel or series, remember that the shadow of Sherlock Holmes is there, guiding each step towards the revelation of truth.

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