Eminent Persons
Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
▪ The death anniversary of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay was observed on 8th April, remembering his contributions to Indian literature, nationalism, and the cultural awakening of Bengal during the 19th century.
▪ Nationalism and Literature: Through works like Anandamath (banned by the British), which narrates the Sanyasi Rebellion, Bankim became synonymous with India’s struggle for independence.
▪ The national song of India, Vande Mataram, originated from Bankim’s Anandamath, becoming a symbol of the freedom movement.
▪ Famous Works: Rajmohan’s Wife (1864) (first novel in English by an Indian). His novels Durgeshnandini (1865), Kapalkundala (1866), and Vishabriksha (1873) addressed social issues like women’s rights, child marriage, and caste discrimination.
