TALES OF A VOYAGER by Syed Mujtaba Ali (Translated by Nazes Afroz)

Paperback. NEW. In the turbulent era between the two World Wars, a renowned traveler and writer named Syed Mujtaba Ali embarked on a remarkable journey from India to Europe. Boarding a ship, he left behind the beautiful shores of Sri Lanka and set sail on the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea. Along the way, he sailed along the African coastline, ultimately crossing the Horn of Africa until the ship finally reached its destination at Suez Port. During this epic voyage, Ali experienced a multitude of captivating encounters and gathered a collection of intriguing stories. Among his newfound friends were two young individuals named Paul and Percy, who quickly became his devoted companions. Their unwavering loyalty endeared them to Ali, and their adventures together would provide endless entertainment. However, one particularly enigmatic character stood out among the rest. Abul Asfia Noor Uddin Muhammad Abdul Karim Siddiqi, despite his limited speech, possessed an uncanny ability to solve any problem that came his way. Carrying an assortment of curious items in his capacious overcoat pocket, including toffees and a gold cigarette case, Siddiqi fascinated Ali with both his mysterious persona and his impressive problem-solving skills. As the ship continued on its voyage, Ali regaled his friends with stories of Socotra, an island inhabited by notorious pirates on the quest for hidden treasures. Through his words, the enchanting tales of Socotra sprang to life, transporting the listeners to a world filled with adventure and intrigue. Delving into history, Ali recounted the incredible journey of a giraffe from Africa to China, via India. This fascinating tale highlighted the interconnectedness of nations and the marvels of ancient trade routes. Ali's ability to intertwine history and storytelling captivated his audience, leaving them in awe of the wonders that lay beyond their immediate surroundings. Upon reaching the shores of Suez, Ali and his friends disembarked in order to behold the magnificent pyramids of Giza. In these historic lands of Egypt, Ali's keen observations and vivid descriptions painted a vivid picture of its vibrant culture and rich heritage. He showcased the diverse personalities of the locals, from the spirited taxi drivers to the warm and welcoming café owners. Moreover, Ali's understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization brought to life the intriguing world of pharaohs and tomb hunters. Ali's travelogue, titled "Tales of a Voyager," exemplifies his erudition and wit, while maintaining a light-hearted and entertaining tone throughout. His writing possesses a unique ability to seamlessly blend laughter with moments of introspection and tenderness, enchanting his readers and leaving a lasting impact. In the words of the Dhaka Tribune, "Syed Mujtaba Ali knows how to perform magic through his writing!" His stories have the power to evoke roaring laughter one moment, only to touch the depths of one's soul with their poignant satire the next. Ali's literary prowess enables him to transport his readers to distant lands, offering them an unforgettable journey brimming with laughter, wisdom, and unforgettable moments. "Tales of a Voyager" is yet another gem from the author who captivated audiences with his immensely popular travel account, "In a Land Far from Home (Deshe Bideshe)."