Award-Winning Novel Justice on the Hills Explores Friendship, Sacrifice and the Quest for Justice
Justice on the Hills, an award-winning political thriller by acclaimed author, ultramarathon runner and mountaineer Sanjai Banerji, presents a compelling fictional narrative on the creation of a new hill state, making it the first novel to explore the fictional formation of Gorkhaland through an engrossing work of contemporary fiction.
At the heart of the novel is Mobius Mukherjee, an ordinary man with an extraordinary sense of justice. A devoted father, loyal friend and determined activist, Mobius finds himself at the centre of a movement seeking dignity, identity and justice for the hill people. His unwavering commitment sets in motion a gripping saga of courage, sacrifice and human resilience.
The story follows Mobius and his close-knit childhood companions, popularly known as the Gang of Six, whose remarkable journey spans more than three decades. Beginning with three classmates at a prestigious residential public school in Dehradun, the narrative traverses the landscapes of Satna and Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, the rugged heights of Ladakh, the avalanche-prone slopes of Nathu La in Sikkim, the bustling cities of Mumbai and Kolkata, before culminating in the mist-covered hills of Darjeeling and Kalimpong against the backdrop of unfolding global conflicts.
Blending adventure with political intrigue, Justice on the Hills keeps readers engrossed through every chapter. The novel moves seamlessly from a desperate act by a sixteen-year-old girl to a devastating avalanche at Nathu La, from custodial brutality to an ultra-marathon at Khardung La, from the Covid-19 pandemic and the death of a celebrated actor to a dramatic night-time police chase along the banks of the Teesta River with pursuing Alsatian dogs. Every twist contributes to a fast-paced narrative that unfolds with the suspense and intensity of a binge-worthy streaming series.
Beyond its thrilling storyline lies an emotionally rich exploration of relationships. Mobius shares a deeply affectionate bond with his daughter Ayushi, fondly known as the “Pahadi Princess.” When Ayushi faces a life-altering medical condition, the family’s emotional strength is put to the ultimate test. His wife Sumitra, practical yet compassionate, struggles to balance family security with her husband’s relentless pursuit of justice, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
Mobius’s closest friends play equally significant roles in his journey. Milind, a celebrated celebrity and model, remains a steadfast pillar of support, while his partner Mandira offers warmth, empathy and unwavering encouragement. Shiv and Chandrika, though maintaining political neutrality, provide invaluable guidance during Mobius’s most challenging moments. Meanwhile, Junali, mentor to her niece Manisha, emerges as one of the novel’s strongest female characters, displaying remarkable courage, leadership and emotional complexity as she guides the struggle for statehood while developing a nuanced and deeply human relationship with Mobius.
As the movement gains momentum, the protagonists confront increasingly complex challenges involving technology, media manipulation, political negotiations, government decision-making and international developments. The novel builds steadily towards a nail-biting climax that leaves readers contemplating the future of the hills and the enduring struggle for justice and identity.
Published by Ukiyoto Publishing, Justice on the Hills is now available in six languages—English, Hindi, Nepali, Filipino, German and French—bringing its powerful message to readers across the world.
The novel has received the prestigious Fiction Book of the Year Literary Award conferred by Suenos by Ukiyoto, recognising its literary merit and compelling storytelling.
About the Author
Sanjai Banerji is an internationally recognised ultramarathon runner, certified mountaineer and award-winning author. His published works include Crossing the Finish Line (Running), The Mountaineering Handbook (Mountaineering), Nobody Dies Tonight (Fitness During the Pandemic), the multilingual novel Justice on the Hills, two acclaimed manga comics, and twenty-four short stories published in twenty-four anthologies. His diverse body of work reflects his passion for adventure, endurance, history and compelling storytelling, establishing him as one of India’s most versatile contemporary authors.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.in/Justice-Hills-Sanjai-Banerji/dp/9360496227/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1V2UX6JS6KKCB&dib=
Ukiyoto Link: https://www.ukiyotoindia.com/product-page/justice-on-the-hills
