Bankim Chandra Chatterjee Context: The Prime Minister paid tribute to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay a renowned litterateur and nationalist thinker on the occasion of his birth anniversary. About Bankim Chandra Chatterjee Bankim Chandra Chatterjee was born on June 26, 1838, in Naihati, West Bengal. His famous novel 'Anandamath' which was later banned by the British was based on the Sannyasi Rebellion. This novel evoked a sense of patriotism and became closely associated with India's freedom struggle. India's national song, "Vande Mataram," was taken from the novel 'Anandamath'; it served as a powerful slogan during the freedom struggle. Notable Works 'Rajmohan's Wife' was the first English novel written by an Indian. His well-known Bengali novels include: Durgeshnandini (1865) Kapalkundala (1866) Vishavriksha (1873) These literary works addressed important social issues such as women's rights, child marriage, and caste discrimination. His renowned religious work is 'Krishna Charitra'. Role in the Bengal Renaissance In 1872, Bankim launched a literary magazine named 'Bangadarshan'. This magazine helped propagate Bengali nationalism and fostered literary and cultural growth. Bankim wanted the magazine 'Bangadarshan' to serve the purpose of bridging the gap between the educated and the common people, as well as strengthening the Bengali identity. Rabindranath Tagore was deeply impressed by the magazine; he later revived it and used it to publish nationalist ideas and writings.
