As we dive down memory lane remembering Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay on his birth anniversary, there is a timeless legacy for generations to relive his work. A prolific Bengali writer in the 20th century, he wrote on subjects of prominence, which are still relevant in the contemporary world. He was born during the time when the national freedom struggle was ripe. And he played a critical role to lead a nation liberated from colonial influence as well as years of prejudices.
He was a reformer, who through his writing and political position gravitated towards revolution. His legacy still remains relevant and enlightens us in today’s time. Chattopadhyay wrote from and for the roots that made him the person he was. He was a progressive writer ahead of his time and emphasised the urgency to liberate our country subjugated for generations. His writing depicted stories of writing against social discrimination and rural India.
Early Life
He was born on September 15, 1876, at Devanaandapur in the Hooghly district of West Bengal. As his family was facing financial problems in his household growing up, he had to cut short his education and work. Chattopadhyay’s career began as an assistant to Settlement Officer as well as being a translator for the Calcutta Law court and clerk in the Accounts Department of Burma Railway.
Activist
Sarat Chandra as a revolutionary and reformer through his narrative was trying to bring a shift. He played an active role in Non-Cooperation Movement, in 1921 he was elected as the president of the Howrah District Congress. His writing was banned for its stance against the government. His novel Pather Dabi is a story about society trying to free India from British Raj. A novel indeed to influence young minds of India towards a chain of ideas not clouded by dominant authorities.
Chattopadhyay first published work was Baradidi (1907) which gained him recognition and is still widely known. His last novel Shesh Proshno (1931) has a reflective and awakening undertone while highlighting how unjust history has been towards people and inequality often is concealed through the largeness and prevalence of oppression. Amongst his novels well known and acknowledged, are Devdas (1917), Srikanata(1917), Chelebelar Galpa(1938), Bipradas(1935). His works were published after his death and without a doubt has left a timeless impact.
Author
Chattopadhyay’s women in the novel were written with immense courage, strength and potential. The gender inequality and oppression women face were encountered by progressive women with vigour to change their lives and the lives around them. The women portrayed in Devdas(1917), Charitraheen(1917), Sesh Prashna(1931), and Datta(1918) have dynamic women dealing in a world in ways that are not conventional. His works have a strong feminist outlook while writing which he is widely known for and looked up to.
His works have been translated into multiple languages to provide more accessibility. Books turned into various popular adaptions carrying the same intention that he wanted the world influenced. Novels transformed into dramas and performed.
Chattopadhyay passed away on 16th January 1938, his works still remain alive and make his presence established. Chattopadhyay’s writing is a timeless appeal. He left a legacy to rethink the history we are told and see the world in a more dissected version with major issues which are remain ignored. He was a great novelist of his time and his impact is evident on Bengali literature and countering important themes through his narration is admirable. This Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav we celebrate and remember his invaluable contribution to the Indian freedom struggle.
