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
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
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
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
“If you offer sweets at Zahra Pal’s Durga Puja, your son-in-law will come home” – such is the local belief in Nandakishoreganj, under the Majhiyali Gram Panchayat in Uttar Dinajpur district. Exactly eight days after Devi Paksha, a one-day Durga Puja (Zahra Mela) is held in
Bhai Phonta, also referred to as Bhai Dooj in other areas of India, is one of the most sentimental festivals of Bengal. It honors the genuine connection that exists between brothers and sisters, a connection based on love, laughter, concern, and, of course, a plethora
Owning a garden house by the Ganges had become a “trend” among the affluent classes of the 19th and 20th centuries. One such house was Peneti’s Gobinda Home or Gobinda Kumar Home. Initially established as a leisure retreat, this house has, over time, transcended its
Kali — the name reflects the strength of the divine power. Her dark and fierce presence embodies the utmost divinity and devotion. Every idol of Kali is either Black, Grey, or Blue (Shyama Kali). However, very few people know about Shwet Kali or White Kali. This