On the muddy banks of the Ganges in North Kolkata, two mysterious twins are discovered by a humble idol maker from Kumartuli. Raised among clay, river tides, and the ancient craft of sculpting gods, the boys grow up with an uncanny bond to the water that first brought them into the world.
But when a crisis threatens the livelihoods of Kumartuli’s artisans, the brothers disappear as mysteriously as they once appeared, leaving behind a question that no one can ever truly answer.
Mudskippers is a lyrical tale of fatherhood, folklore, sacrifice, and the timeless rhythm between the river and the people who live by it.
Listen to the audio version of this evocative story from StoryNookOnline by Trishikh Dasgupta.
Some of my books (collection of short stories, novels, and more) are available in print and digital editions. They gather many unique journeys, quieter questions, and stories that continue beyond this page.
Dear Ned, thank you so much for sharing my story on your website.
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Thank you Ned for sharing my Audio Story with a larger audience.
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This is fantastic!
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Thank you Kiki, so happy that you liked the story.
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Great story, thanks. I ❤️ that sense of the twins coming from the Ganges and returning to it.
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Dear Katelon, thank you for liking the story. Yes, one of the key elements of the story was the kids coming from the river and returning to the same. I had written this story a few years back on 23rd August 2020. Glad I could do an audio version of it finally. People can read the original story at: https://storynookonline.com/2020/08/23/mudskippers/
I am in the process of converting all my free stories to audio formats. It will take a bit of time, but I don’t mind that. I have taken uo the challlenge. And this does not mean that I will stop writing the weekly free stories, apart from publishing collections of new short stories that can be bought by my fans.
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On my way to listen to it now
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That is so great. I am sure that you would really love this story.
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I did. I was very sad for the statue maker. But I do agree that these are Ganga’s children. And that they had blessed him for many years. He complained about their pranks but I am sure he was left thinking of the years of laughter they gave him. And of love.
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Yes that is the truth, sometimes we are irritated with the people we love, and say bad things in anger, and when they are gone, we regret.
The story has a sad note, but a very positive outcome as well.
I also like to believe that Kada and Mati are Ganga’s children.
Glad that you enjoyed the story.
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I believe without a doubt that’s what they were.
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What a hauntingly beautiful and evocative premise! 🌊
You’ve woven atmosphere, folklore, and emotion so seamlessly—the imagery of Kumartuli, clay, and the Ganges feels alive and deeply rooted in place. The mystery of the twins and their connection to the river adds a lyrical, almost mythic depth that lingers in the mind.
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Thank you so much, Verma’ji. Your words feel like they have walked through the same muddy lanes and paused by the same riverbanks that shaped this story.
Kumartuli and the Ganges have always carried a quiet mythology of their own. I only tried to listen closely and let that rhythm find its way into the narrative. I am glad the twins and their silence could leave behind an echo for you.
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You are most welcome.
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🙏🌹
Aum Shanti
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Thank you so much.
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Fine story. Life truly can be mysterious.
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Thank you so much for liking the story. Yes, life can be so mysterious.
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