Fri Jul 18 01:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article based on it:
**Summary:**
The article is a review of the crime novel “The Beast Within” by Rudraneil Sengupta. The reviewer praises the book for being a compelling Indian police procedural, a genre often lacking in quality in Indian literature due to systemic issues within the police force. The novel centers on Inspector Prashant Kumar investigating the death of a young tribal house help in Delhi. The review highlights the author’s understanding of both the police system and the diverse landscapes of Delhi, creating a realistic and engaging story with memorable characters. The reviewer suggests it could be the start of a successful series.
**News Article:**
**Indian Crime Fiction Gets a Boost: ‘The Beast Within’ Hailed as a Standout Police Procedural**
**New Delhi, July 18, 2025** – Rudraneil Sengupta’s new novel, “The Beast Within,” is generating buzz as a significant addition to the Indian crime fiction scene. A review published in *The Hindu* today praises the book for delivering a compelling police procedural, a subgenre often found wanting in Indian literature.
The novel follows Inspector Prashant Kumar as he investigates the suspicious death of a 15-year-old tribal house help in Delhi. The review emphasizes Sengupta’s deep understanding of the Indian police system, portraying its complexities and challenges with authenticity. “Sengupta’s weary and damaged Inspector Prashant Kumar is a credible protagonist who works the many planes of NCR’s realities without either diminishing inequities or ignoring power structures,” the review notes.
Beyond the procedural aspects, the novel is lauded for its vivid depiction of Delhi’s diverse settings, from affluent neighborhoods to impoverished slums, creating a strong sense of place that permeates the narrative. The supporting characters, particularly the wrestler-turned-cop Meera and Kumar’s aide Zeeshan, are also singled out as memorable additions.
The reviewer suggests that “The Beast Within” stands out from other recent crime novels and could be the start of a successful series, offering a refreshing and realistic portrayal of law enforcement in India. The book is already sparking conversation about the state of Indian crime fiction and the need for more nuanced and authentic portrayals of the country’s criminal justice system.
First Piper 