When we think of Jagadhatri Puja today, the glamorous celebration of Chandannagar often comes first to mind with towering idols and spectacular light displays drawing visitors from across Bengal. But far older, quieter, and steeped in royal history is the Jagadhatri Puja of Krishnanagar Rajbari
In Bengal’s spiritual tradition lies a story that has been told and retold for generations—the story of the Ray family of Balagarh, Hooghly, whose unwavering devotion to Goddess Jagadhatri has illuminated their home and hearts for centuries. Some believe Jagadhatri Puja began in Krishnanagar, Nadia. Others believe that Bengal’s earliest
The mere mention of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay evokes a reflective pause in any reader. His narratives, particularly that of Aranyak, are capable of altering our view of the world around us. They encourage us to notice rustling leaves, assorted bird songs and even gentle rivers. With the words
Humans usually migrate for livelihood. But Bengalis’ relationship with Banaras (Varanasi) is not exactly that. Over time, they have indeed come here for education and trade, but mostly to make Kashi their permanent home. There is no clear record of when Bengalis first started considering Kashi
We were walking north along Netaji Subhas Road, west of Lal Dighi, passing on the left the GPO, the Reserve Bank, and the Eastern Railway headquarters, and on the right, Writers’ and Lions’ Range behind us. By “we,” I mean myself, my American friend Dr.
Indigo signifies the struggle of Indian peasants during the British Raj, when the demand for the dye in the European textile industry sharply rose. Bengal is the living history of the “Indigo Revolt”, held in 1859, just after the Indian Rebellion. Indigo was introduced in the country in
Nestled in the southern part of Bengal is one of the world’s most enchanting and mysterious places - the Sundarbans. A region of rivers, tides and verdant mangrove forests. The very name of Sundarban means, “beautiful forest,” as these particular mangrove trees are known as Sundari
In the villages and towns of Bengal, before the cinemas and the television screens, there had always been a remarkable tradition called Jatra. People from the neighbouring villages would come and gather in the open air to see a two-or-three hour live event. Jatra is a
Kolkata, the City of Joy is renowned for its lively roads, ancient structures, tram lines and crowded bazars. A stroll down its by-lanes would expose one to an energetic mesh of tradition and contemporary life. One of the unique features of the city has always been
Bengal has a rich history from ancient to modern India. Among all the historic eras, the British Raj remains in the spotlight. The tales of the Lascars, however, trace their roots to the pre-British era, emerging a century or more before colonial rule truly took hold. From the 17th