Sindhu Sobhyotay Shankha O Agastrajatra (Bengali Version)

Book Details

• Author: Dipan Bhattacharya

• Illustrator: Sontu Karmakar

• Publisher: Shabdo Prokashon

• Binding: Hard Cover

• No of Pages: 320

• Year of Publication: 2024

About the Book

Sindhu Sobhyotay Shankha O Agastrajatra explores the fascinating historical journey of the conch shell (shankha) from the ancient Indus Valley Civilization to its widespread presence in Bengali culture today. The book investigates the origins of the conch, tracing its roots back to the Sindhu (Indus) Civilization, where the first evidence of its use was discovered. But how did the conch, once so closely tied to ancient traditions, make its way into the culture and beliefs of far-flung places like Bengal?

This inquiry raises intriguing questions: How similar are the conchs from the Sindhu Civilization to the ones used today? If the conch survived the decline of the Indus Civilization, could it provide a clue to the identity of the people who once inhabited that region? The book delves deeper into these mysteries, exploring the artisans who made conchs, the communities that sheltered them, and how the tradition of using conchs spread to Bengal.

Additionally, the book addresses the ancient practice of applying sindoor (vermilion), pondering whether there is evidence of this custom existing in the distant past, and how these traditions are intertwined with the culture surrounding the conch.

A compelling blend of archaeology, culture, and history, Sindhu Sobhyotay Shankha O Agastrajatra invites readers to embark on an enlightening journey through time, discovering the significance and legacy of the conch shell in ancient and modern societies.