While the larger part of Bengal preens herself in preparation for one of the biggest festivals of the world, the Santhal community mourns the entire period during Durga puja. Sounds strange? Wait till you hear why. Away from the extravagance and glamour of Kolkata and the
Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was a brave man, not just in his ideologies, but even in implementing those and persuading the British to formulate laws in favour of the women of India. He had repeatedly protested atrocities against child widows and tried stopping child marriages. However,
Compounding issues around the world have led to millions of people displaced abroad or within their own borders. In India, infiltration from Bangladesh has been a cause of socio-ethnic tensions in the bordering states, primarily in the north-east, as the locals are apprehensive of being
In these days of reinventing and creating new rules out of old traditions, it is equally important to remember our roots, to re-examine the conventions, and norms from which new rules and rituals are created. A way of solidifying our history, if you will, and
Remember that palm leaf sepoy that you played with in your childhood? Yes, in absence of electronic gadgets, children once played with indigenous toys, like the Talpatar Shepai. Chalchitra Academy is trying to revive and popularise this dying crafts form of rural Bengal. They are
For those who grew up amidst Kolkata’s colonial charm, will forever remember deep melodious renditions of popular Western songs in the ‘70s and ’80s, coming from a female singer at Park Street’s iconic Trincas. And how that voice fascinated all, so much so that 50
Agomoni … the very word rings a bell of nostalgia for every Bengali, at home, beyond borders, across oceans and all over the world. This very word brings the message of ‘Homecoming’ not just for Devi Durga, but for thousands of Bengalis worldwide. In praise of
Durga Puja is here! You’ve already decided on your outfits (bought months ago, of course), which pandals you’ll visit with your friends on the days of the puja, and of course, celebrate Calcutta by gorging on street food! However, will all of us spend Durga Puja
Bhog with a difference? If you are used to having the khichuri bhog every year along with that sweet savoury payesh and ofcourse the begun bhaja, the quintessentially Bangali platter, then here you are in for a surprise! Surrounded by dense Sal forests, taking you
She comes from a family that has hardly ever read newspapers. When she was born, her parents were told by her grandparents that being the only daughter, she will soon be married off and hence either they produce a son or adopt a son who