Exploring Nationalism in Bankim Chandra's Philosophy/বঙ্কিমচন্দ্রের দর্শনে জাতীয়তাবাদী ধারণা

Abstract

The concept of Swadesh (homeland) has evolved significantly over time. In ancient and medieval periods, it did not carry the same nationalistic meaning as it does today. During monarchical rule, a ruler’s domain was considered Swadesh, and the subjects’ loyalty was directed toward their king rather than a collective nation. The idea of patriotism, in the modern sense, was absent. People fought to defend their ruler’s territory, but their allegiance was personal rather than ideological. Unlike Bhagat Singh, who fought for an independent nation, the warriors of Shivaji or Rana Pratap were loyal to their respective rulers, not to a broader nationalist cause.

          The transformation of Swadesh into a concept of national identity gained momentum after the French Revolution, which led to the decline of monarchy and the rise of democracy. This shift redefined sovereignty, placing power in the hands of the people instead of a single ruler. Nationalism emerged as a psychological and ideological force, fostering a deep sense of allegiance to one’s homeland. As these ideas spread across the world, they also influenced India and Bengal.

          In Bengal, literature played a crucial role in shaping nationalist consciousness. Poets, philosophers, and novelists introduced and reinforced the idea of Swadesh through their works. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay was a key figure in this intellectual movement. His writings reflected the transition from loyalty to a king toward a broader sense of national identity. His novels and essays not only depicted patriotism but also provided a philosophical foundation for nationalism in Bengal.

          This research paper explores the rise and evolution of nationalism in Bengali society from a socio-philosophical perspective. By analysing Bankim Chandra’s works, it examines how he conceptualized Swadesh and contributed to the nationalist discourse. Through this study, we gain insight into the intellectual and cultural shifts that shaped the nationalist movement in Bengal and India.