Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's 'Devdas' is a poignant and enduring classic of Bengali literature, first published in 1917. The novel tells the tragic story of Devdas, a wealthy young man, and Paro, his childhood sweetheart, who are separated by societal norms and family pride. Devdas's inability to fight for his love leads him down a path of self-destruction and alcoholism, finding solace in the arms of the courtesan Chandramukhi. This masterpiece explores themes of unrequited love, societal pressure, devotion, and the devastating consequences of regret. It remains one of the most adapted and influential works in Indian literary history.