Chander Pahar (Mountains Of The Moon)

Shankar Ray Choudhuri completes his First Arts graduation, marking the end of his formal education. Faced with the prospect of a dull job at a jute mill, he yearns for a life filled with adventure and exploration.

A fellow villager secures Shankar a position as a station master on the Uganda Railway. This opportunity marks the beginning of his thrilling adventure in Africa, allowing him to escape his mundane life.

Shankar's adventurous spirit is put to the test when he faces a man-eating lion one fateful evening. He narrowly escapes the predator by retreating to the safety of his cabin, realizing the dangers of his new life.

Realizing the threat of a black mamba, Shankar requests a Springfield bolt-action rifle and carbolic acid from the head stationmaster. This decision highlights his readiness to confront the natural perils around him.

Shankar befriends Tirumal Appa, an Indian soldier in the British Army, who frequently visits him. Their friendship blossoms amidst the backdrop of Africa, bringing some companionship into Shankar's life.

Tragedy strikes when Tirumal falls victim to the lion that has been terrorizing the area. Shankar is left enraged and heartbroken, motivated to confront the beast that took his friend's life.

In a daring act, Shankar uses himself as bait, covering himself in blood to lure the lion. In a heart-pounding confrontation, he finally manages to put the predatory beast down, avenging his friend’s death.

During his recovery, Shankar meets Diego Alvarez, a seasoned Portuguese explorer and gold prospector. Alvarez shares thrilling tales of his adventures, inspiring Shankar and fueling his desire for exploration.

Shankar decides to join Alvarez in his expedition, leaving his provincial life behind. Their partnership sets the stage for new adventures, but they are soon confronted by natural challenges.

During one of their excursions, Shankar and Alvarez are ambushed by the legendary Bunyip. In a selfless act, Alvarez sacrifices himself to save Shankar, leaving him devastated and alone.

After the loss of Diego Alvarez, Shankar performs a solemn burial ritual for his fallen friend. This acts as a poignant moment that solidifies Shankar's connections to the explorers he meets along the way.

Shankar's adventure takes an unexpected turn when he stumbles upon diamond mines deep in the jungle. His discovery leads him down a treacherous path, but he becomes enamored with the promise of wealth.

While navigating the mines, Shankar discovers the remains of Attilio Gatti along with a cryptic note about the diamonds. The note implores that Gatti's remains be buried with Christian rites before claiming the treasure.

Shankar’s quest for vengeance escalates as he devises a meticulous plan to trap the Bunyip using sharpened sticks. After a tense wait, his ingenuity pays off as he successfully defeats the monstrous creature.

After enduring hardship in the Kalahari desert, Shankar is rescued by a passing survey team. Upon recovering, he sells diamonds and decides to honor Alvarez by embarking on future expeditions with a seasoned team.