Bankim Chandra's 120th death anniversary today

Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay is considered one of the greatest novelists of the sub-continent. He is widely regarded as a key figure in literary renaissance of Bengal as well as undivided India. Some of his writings, including novels, essays and commentaries, were a breakaway from the traditional verse-oriented writings, and provided an inspiration for authors.
Today (April 8) marks the 120th death anniversary of the litterateur.
Bankim Chandra was born in the village Kanthalpara in Naihati, in an orthodox Bengali Brahmin family, to Jadab Chandra Chattopadhyay and Durga Debi. He was educated at the Mohsin College in Hooghly and later at the Presidency College, graduating with a degree in Arts in 1857. He was one of the first two graduates of the University of Calcutta. He later obtained a degree in Law as well, in 1869.
He was appointed as Deputy Collector of Jessore. Bankim Chandra went on to become a Deputy Magistrate, retiring from government service in 1891. His years at work were peppered with incidents that brought him into conflict with the ruling British. However, he was made a Companion, Order of the Indian Empire in 1894.
Renowned poet and essayist Zahid Haider said, “Bankim's novels are informative, thought-provoking and well composed. They can be categorised into three genres: historical romances, novels highlighting nationalist fervour, and those reflecting the socio-political and economical conditions in 19th century Bengal.”
“Kapalkundala” (1866) was Bankim's first major publication. The heroine of this novel was modelled partly after Kalidasa's Shakuntala and partly Shakespeare's Miranda. However, the partial similarities are only inferential analysis by critics, and Bankim's heroine may be completely original. In “Krishnakanter Will” (1878) Bankim produced a complex plot. In that complexity, critics saw resemblance of Western novels.
One of the aims of Bankim was to interest people in science and in the progress of the society and country. It was a time when educated Bengalis preferred speaking English instead of their own language. Bankim wanted to promote the love of the mother tongue in the educated Bengalis, and to make them share their knowledge with others through their language.
Bankim Chandra passed away on April 8, 1894.
 

Compiled by Staff Correspondent