🥂 Book Review🥂

Gautham V Kedoor’s Bhujang Shetty: And The Lost Treasure of Basrur is a spirited foray into the world of amateur sleuthing, local lore, and coastal Karnataka culture. Anchored by a refreshingly quirky protagonist—Bhujang Shetty, a juice-seller-turned-detective with a flair for the dramatic—the novel fuses comedy, mystery, and regional history into a light-hearted yet compelling narrative.

Bhujang Shetty, with his aviator shades and exaggerated confidence, is portrayed with both affection and satire. His character is intentionally over-the-top, channeling the archetype of the ‘wannabe Sherlock’ but with distinct Udupi flair. His sidekick, Rathnesh Upadhyaya, provides a more grounded counterbalance, offering a humorous dynamic that readers will find endearing and reminiscent of classic detective duos.

The book offers a subtle commentary on regional identity. Set in Udupi and centered around the historical port town of Basrur, Kedoor integrates elements of Karnataka's local legends and lesser-known maritime history. This lends the novel an educational undercurrent that could be of interest to readers keen on South Indian heritage, especially the Konkan coast's storied past.

The mystery itself—surrounding the fabled treasure of Basrur—is engaging, albeit more focused on fun than forensic realism. The plot unfolds with a sense of whimsical urgency, peppered with comedic episodes and small-town intrigue. While not overly complex, the narrative structure is paced well, making it accessible to both younger readers and adults seeking light fiction.

Themes of friendship, local pride, and the blending of myth with modern sleuthing are handled with a playful tone. Importantly, the book avoids taking itself too seriously, which is its greatest strength—it invites readers into a world where history meets hilarity.

Bhujang Shetty : And The Lost Treasure Of Basrur is a delightful regional mystery that thrives on character charm, local flavor, and comedic storytelling. While it may not satisfy readers seeking intricate crime - solving or high literary polish, it excels in providing a numerous and heartfelt tribute to small - town life and historical curiosity.

Kedoor's prose is conversational, marked by humorous intersections and colloquial dialogue. This style strengthens the book's authenticity and relatability, especially for readers familiar with Kannada - English linguistic hybridity and coastal dialects.

Must read ♥️♥️