Context of the Novels of Bankim Chandra in perspective of 19th Century History/ উনিশ শতকীয় ইতিহাসের প্রেক্ষিতে বঙ্কিম উপন্যাসের কথনবিশ্ব

Abstract

Bankim Chandra Chattapadhyay (1838-1894) was the first Bengali novelist and the editor of the periodical Bengali magazine ‘Bongodarshan’. His novels were profoundly influenced by the cohesive elements of the 19th-century renaissance, characterized by an emerging middle-class awareness, a romantic sensibility, and a deep engagement with historical consciousness. Before he started writing Novels, he was an earnest reader of history.  His writing creativity with potent knowledge of History was reflected in his every novel. These two spirits were stirring in his novels ‘Durgesnandini’ (1865), ‘Kopalkundala’ (1866), ‘Mrinalini’ (1869), ‘Chandrasekhar’ (1875), ‘Rajsingho’ (1882), ‘Anondomath’ (1884), ‘Devi Chowdhurani’ (1884), ‘Sitaram’ (1887) etc. The Strength of his writing is - A Reader can experience the feel of Patriotism & Nationalism in his every Novel and it was intertwined with the world socio-political history & Indian Nationalist movement and the cultural Renaissance of the late 19th Century. Analogically we can mention ‘Vande Mataram’ which was published in 1882 as a part of his Bengali novel Ananandamath, it was written as a tribute to the motherland, personified as the goddess of the country. ‘Vande Mataram’ Its lyrics express devotion to India and reflect themes of patriotism and national pride. The first two verses of the song are usually sung, and its significance remains deeply rooted in Indian history and culture. All his novel had been written in the context of the traditions and reform movements, revival and conservation of Hinduism, conflict between eastern and western culture, deficiency of progressive approach, priority of socialism etc. which I have explained periodically in my paper. As one of the first modern novelist in Bengali literature, his works made the foundation for the future writer. His Contribution in Indian Cultural and literacy History has created a long-lasting impact.