Gobinda Samanta Ba Banglar Ek Rayater Itihas

• Author: Rev. Lal Behari Day
• Genre: Novel
• Cover: Hardcover
• ISBN: 9789354250323
• Pages: 344
• Weight: 452 grams

Book Overview:

Gobinda Samanta Ba Banglar Ek Rayater Itihas (Gobinda Samanta and the History of a Bengal Peasant) is a celebrated work by Rev. Lal Behari Day that originally appeared in English in 1874 under the title Bengal Peasant Life. The novel provides a vivid depiction of the life and struggles of Bengal's rural peasants in the 19th century. It is a crucial social commentary on the hardships faced by the agricultural community during British colonial rule.

The narrative unfolds through the story of Gobinda Samanta, an agricultural laborer, exploring his daily life, family, and the socio-economic pressures that shape his world. Day’s deep understanding of the rural landscape and its people comes through in this monumental work, which not only gives a voice to the peasantry but also critiques the exploitation by landlords and the colonial system.

The novel was first recognized as a significant literary achievement, winning accolades for its portrayal of rural life. Gobinda Samanta is considered an important early work in Bengali literature that aligns with the tradition of social realism. It was praised by many, including Charles Darwin, who expressed his appreciation of the work.

About the Author:

Rev. Lal Behari Day was born on December 18, 1824, in Sonapulashi village, Burdwan, in a Vaishnavite merchant family. Driven by his thirst for knowledge and faced with financial difficulties, he converted to Christianity. He wrote extensively in both English and Bengali and was an active editor of various publications such as Arunodaya, Indian Reformer, and Bengal Magazine. His works primarily revolved around social issues, especially focusing on the lives of the marginalized sections of society.

His novel Gobinda Samanta has been instrumental in shedding light on the plight of Bengal's peasants, earning recognition both in India and abroad. He was awarded an honorary fellowship by Calcutta University in 1877 for his contributions to literature and social reform. Lal Behari Day’s intellectual contributions were immense, and he left an indelible mark on Bengali literature, particularly in the areas of social commentary and realist fiction.

Translator:

The translator of this Bengali edition is Dhurjatiprasad Chattopadhyay, a scholar from Jadavpur University, who has made significant contributions in the fields of assistive technology, environmental studies, and Santal-Bengali lexicography. He has also authored books such as Ramayan: Nature, Environment, and Society and Santal-Bengali Dictionary.