বাংলা শব্দ ভাণ্ডার : প্রসঙ্গ ব্রতপার্বণের নামকরণ ও তার উৎস সন্ধানে/ Bengali Vocabulary: In Search of the Naming and Origins of Brata Festivals

Abstract

The Bengali language is now recognised as one of the classical languages of India. This raises the question: what criteria must a language fulfil in order to attain the status of a classical language? We may say that a language attains classical status when it possesses antiquity, excellence, and cultural prestige. The extent to which these qualities are reflected in the collective consciousness of the people, folk literature, folk mythology, folk culture, refined literature, music, and the arts may be considered as important criteria for evaluating such characteristics. There is no longer any doubt that the Bengali language has undoubtedly fulfilled all these criteria. In this context, the present article seeks to explore the naming of various brata observances and festivals practised in the rural life of Bengal, along with the etymological meanings of their associated terms and their social contexts. Accordingly, we have entitled our project “Bengali Vocabulary: In Search of the Naming and Origins of Brata Festivals.”

          Just as every individual has their own language, every folk community likewise possesses its own distinctive linguistic expressions. Here, the term ‘folk’ refers to people. It may be said that human speech is limited, whereas the thoughts and emotions within the human mind are infinite. With this limited vocabulary and language, people create countless comprehensible words and expressions. Therefore, the contribution of the folk and folk communities to the creation and development of language is immeasurable. Needless to say, folk communities have nurtured and enriched the Bengali vocabulary over a long period of time.

          The spontaneous expression of the vitality inherent in Bengali language and culture is rooted in women's brata rituals, popular religious observances and festivals, village names or place names, and collective folk festivals, among other practices. The Bengali language possesses an extraordinarily rich vocabulary, and bratakatha occupies a special place within it. Bratakatha is a unique form of folk culture, primarily associated with religious and social rituals and ceremonies in the rural society of Bengal. In any case, in accordance with the title of our article, we shall attempt to discuss the subject from this particular perspective.

          Finally, it may be said that bratakatha is not merely a religious ritual; it constitutes an important chapter in the history of Bengali society, culture, and language. An exploration of its origins provides us with an opportunity to delve deeper into the history of Bengali language and culture. Therefore, through the study and research of bratakatha, we can develop a richer understanding of our cultural heritage.