Battala

• Author: Sripantha
• Publisher: Ananda Publisher
• Language: Bengali
• ISBN: 9788172155834
• Pages: 114
• Format: Hardcover
• Weight: 509 grams

Book Description:
Battala delves into the vibrant world of 19th-century Bengali printed literature, primarily emerging from the bustling Battala area of North Kolkata. While it is popularly known for publishing lowbrow, entertaining literature, Sripantha argues that the cultural significance of Battala transcended its physical boundaries, with similar cultural dynamics thriving in cities around the world. The book challenges the misconception that Battala only produced obscene or low-quality literature. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the role Battala played in disseminating knowledge to the masses, its influence on folk education, and the interactions between highbrow and popular literature. Through this work, Sripantha highlights the remarkable contributions of printers and engravers in shaping Bengali culture, and offers a fresh, data-driven perspective on the books and images produced in Battala.

About the Author:

• Sripantha was born in 1932 in Gauripur, Mymensingh District. He pursued his education in Mymensingh and Kolkata, where his writing journey began during his student years. In addition to his passion for writing, Sripantha was deeply interested in books, cigarettes, social gatherings, and art. His work reflects a deep engagement with history and culture, particularly focusing on Bengali literature and its historical contexts.