East India Story

This article introduces the retrospective exhibition of Gobardhan Ash, a renowned Indian modernist, hosted by Prinseps at the Kolkata Centre for Creativity. It highlights the event’s significance, notable attendees, featured artworks, and its aim to celebrate Ash’s legacy and contribute to the exploration of Bengal’s artistic heritage.

Prinseps, a leading avant-garde art house, opens its doors to an extraordinary exhibition honoring the life and works of the pioneering Indian modernist, Gobardhan Ash. Titled “The Retrospective of Gobardhan Ash,” this comprehensive showcase spanning the years 1929 to 1969 promises to be a captivating journey through the artistic evolution of one of India’s most celebrated artists.

Riya Sen and Moon Moon Sen, esteemed actresses, graced the inauguration ceremony, adding a touch of glamour to an event steeped in cultural significance. Notable personalities such as Indrajit Chatterjee, Brijeshwari Kumari Gohil, Ina Puri, Richa Agarwal, and many others joined in the celebration of Ash’s legacy. The unveiling of “The Catalogue Raisonne” for the exhibition marked a significant moment, providing art enthusiasts with an invaluable resource for exploring Ash’s body of work.

To read the whole article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/the-retrospective-of-gobardhan-ash/

With .diva Riya Sen Dev Varma Prinseps .patra14 .official

Rajshekhar Basu, who wrote under the pen name Parashuram, was a multi-talented Bengali. Chemist, author, and even a lexicographer, he excelled in crafting witty and satirical short stories. Considered the 20th century's greatest Bengali humorist, he received the prestigious Padma Bhushan award in 1956.

Today, to celebrate his birth anniversary, we're sharing a transcreation (a creative retelling) of Parashuram's story "Hanumaner Shopno" (Hanuman's Dream) by Arindam Basu. The original story, written in Bengali, came out in 1930 and uses humor to take a playful jab at Hanuman's quest for a wife.

Lord Rama ascended the throne of Ayodhya. The state of Koshala became peaceful and the subjects prosperous; thieves, interlopers, and charlatans fled the country as they had no means of making a living anymore. Not a single ill and infirm subject were to be found anywhere in all of Koshala, neither were litigants to spar with each other, and prison cells were empty. Doctors did not have patients anymore, so they started serving the rich, and judges, rather than looking for new loopholes in the law, decided to take it easy.

Lord Hanuman lived in Ayodhya those days. Lord Rama built for him a seven-storied wooden palace in a beautiful banana grove. There the great warrior lived happily amidst his followers.

To read the complete story, go to https://eastindiastory.com/hanuman-s-dream/

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Nona Walia‘s latest book “The Magic is Within” is a transformative exploration of finding enchantment in everyday life, guiding readers to unlock their inner magic and live with wonder. Through gentle guidance and profound insights, Walia advocates for a shift in mindset towards embracing the extraordinary within the ordinary.

In a world often overshadowed by the mundane and routine, Nona Walia’s latest book, “The Magic is Within,” emerges as a beacon of enchantment, urging readers to embrace the extraordinary in the ordinary. Through profound insights and gentle guidance, Walia invites us to embark on a journey of self-discovery, where the essence of magic resides within each of us, waiting to be unlocked.

To read the complete article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/the-magic-is-within/


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Kabir Deb delves into the socio-political implications of Devashish Makhija‘s film “Joram,” emphasizing its portrayal of the struggle between development and nature, the impact of violence on society, and the challenges faced by meaningful cinema in the current cultural climate. The film has been nominated for various international awards and received prestigious awards like Best Story and Critics Award for Best Film at the Filmfare awards.

Art can either be used to create a calamity that can decimate the minds of an entire civilization. Or it has the courage to give life to the revolution society needs but cannot accept. In the Govind Nihalani directed film, Party (1984), Om Puri in a conversation with K.K. Raina speaks about how art should never stay away from the socio-political climate of a nation. It should question the state with utmost honesty. It should never romanticize the slow destruction which happens by washing the conscience of common citizens. Devashish Makhija’s slow-burn drama Joram does justice to the thought of any rational mind making it a piece of art which triggers the ignorant beings of our society. At the same time, it speaks what many people have been saying since India’s independence.

To read the complete article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/joram-the-constructs-of-a-mourning-civilization/

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As our .menon celebrates her 's first anniversary, we tell you the story of this unsung Heroine.

"“It is about a charming young lady,” Sid started, “she was my colleague during my TOI days, and I remember I used to narrate to her stories of Gulzar and Ray, and many others. But today it gives me great happiness to tell you she is a story to tell.”

“Okay, so who is this mysterious lady?”

“It was a wild morning in October,” Sid began, “and I observed, how the last remaining leaves were being whirled from the solitary tree which graces the yard behind our office. I descended for a cup of coffee to the cafeteria where I found Heena in a particularly bright mood.”

“So her name is Heena?” I asked.

“Yes, Heena Grover Menon” Sid confirmed, “and as I found her joyous with that somewhat explicit cheerfulness which was characteristic of her lighter moments I asked him the reason.”

“So what was the reason?” I asked

To read Heena's complete story, go to https://eastindiastory.com/womens-day-story-of-an-unsung-heroine/

We share Gaurow Gupta‘s opinion on ‘Modern Love Chennai‘ where he explores the complexities of love in the face of challenges and vulnerabilities. It follows the journey of Devi and Nitya, two individuals navigating the intricacies of middle-class life while dealing with personal struggles.
Whenever love arrives, it always brings along the fear of losing it. That’s why we often hesitate to accept love, run away from it, resist it, and fight our insecurities while disguising our vulnerabilities.

When Nitya (Ashok Slevan) mustered the courage to confess his love to Devi( T j Bhanu), it was a pivotal moment in their lives. However, this declaration of affection came at a time when Devi was grappling with more than just the emotions of love. Her life was overshadowed by the constant presence of an insurmountable challenge—she was waging a relentless battle against an incurable eye condition.

Devi’s days were often spent navigating a world that seemed to be gradually fading away from her vision. Each passing moment was a reminder of the uncertainty that loomed over her future, as the darkness encroached upon the once-vibrant world she had known. In the midst of this struggle, a question lingered in her heart, a question that filled her with a sense of vulnerability: Would Nitya still love her, standing by her side, even as she faced this formidable adversary that was slowly robbing her of her sight?

To read the complete , go to https://eastindiastory.com/modern-love-chennai-a-heartfelt-journey-of-understanding/

Among the three Bihus in Assam Bhogali Bihu is extra special because bhog means fun and feasting, with the community feast Bhoj being its highlight

by Dr Monideepa Das .monideepa

The beginning of the year invariably takes me back in time by a good four and a half decades, to those glorious winter holidays of my childhood, spent at my ancestral home in Seujiapam Sonari, now Charaideu.

Prelude: It would only be fair to mention that Seujiapam is that locality of the small town of Sonari which in the bygone days, belonged exclusively to the Dutta clan of which my great-grandfather was the patriarch. My grandfather (Koka), was the youngest among four children. He eventually built a home, the Notun Ghor by the side of the main road, separated by a vast expanse of paddy fields from the Puronaa Ghor, which comprised of a cluster of houses where my Koka’s elder brothers and elder sister (Bor-Koka, Maju-Koka and Jethaai-Aaita) resided with their families.

During winter holidays, our family would head from Dibrugarh to Sonari to spend the vacation with my grandparents, uncles and cousins. Almost simultaneously, my aunts and cousins from Shillong, Jorhat and Dimapur would join us. Needless to say that the entire Seujiapam would be waiting eagerly to welcome all of us and our home would soon be bursting with people and abuzz with activities.

To read the complete article, go to the link https://eastindiastory.com/of-bhogali-bihu-at-my-ancestral-home/

Explore the enchanting fusion of poetry and music as Sidhu , the celebrated figure from the band Cactus, ventures into the world of literature with his debut collection, “Modhyoraater Blues.” This artistic journey, marked by a star-studded book launch in Kolkata, brings together luminaries from the music industry, unveiling a tapestry of emotions, experiences, and timeless pieces crafted over the years.

In a fusion of literary and musical celebration, the renowned figure from the band Cactus, Sidhu, marked his birthday by unveiling his maiden venture into the world of poetry with the release of “Modhyoraater Blues.” This debut collection, a culmination of diverse emotions and experiences, was launched amidst an esteemed gathering at Chow Chai, Kolkata, adding another dimension to Sidhu’s artistic repertoire.

The book launch was a star-studded event attended by luminaries of the music industry, including Pota, Anindya Chatterjee, Upal Sengupta, and members of Cactus, amongst others. As the evening unfolded, the ambiance was set aglow with poetry intertwined seamlessly with melodies. Sidhu, along with Anindya Chatterjee, Upal Sengupta, Prashmita Paul, Gabu, and Ujjaini Mukherjee, rendered soulful tunes, resonating with the essence of the poems within the collection. Prabuddha Banerjee’s skillful guitar accompaniment added a mesmerizing layer to the performances.
To read the complete article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/modhyoraater-blues-sidhus-debut-as-a-poet/

Kabir Deb explores the profound exploration of silence, change, and fear in Manav Kaul‘s novel “Patjhad.” Dive into a world where characters navigate the complexities of relationships, societal norms, and the quiet politics beneath the surface. Through Kaul’s unique perspective, experience a literary journey that challenges comfort and mediocrity, inviting readers to confront the illusions they hold dear.

It is not easy to document silence. The deafening noise of silence drives us towards seeking an escape. It may also lead us to a state of mind where our affinity increases towards creating a bond with the observer in us. The observer likes to have many identities to stay attached to all the versions of a material being. Patjhad by Manav Kaul is a novel about a person who does not thrive in singularity. He wants to feel the presence of a person or situation, and likes to change with the subsequent effect they bring. Although a dissociation from the circumstances around him is evident too. The nature of experience is to never let a person feel that it is brewing. Only after the feeling starts to break into granules, we get to understand how our experience went through a vigorous process of sedimentation. These fallen pieces leave footprints for a rusty tomorrow.

To read the complete article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/patjhad-the-tale-of-the-distant-land/

Kabir Deb , , Manjula Negi Somashis Gupta Mazumder

Explore the captivating rendezvous between interdisciplinary artist Sujoy Prosad Chatterjee and polymath Anirban Andy Bhattacharya at the ICCR library room. Dive into profound discussions on sustainability, AI, and CSR, featuring Anirban’s book ‘The Ruins of Hope’ unveiling.

In a captivating rendezvous of intellect and inspiration, the library room of ICCR became the stage for an evening of profound discussions. Sujoy Prosad Chatterjee, an acclaimed interdisciplinary artist, engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with Anirban Andy Bhattacharya, a polymath whose vast array of experiences spans entrepreneurship, academia, activism, and literary creation.

The event, titled ‘Pipe Dream: An Evening of Inspiration,’ delved into the realms of sustainability, artificial intelligence, and corporate social responsibility. Anirban, the founder of Amplo Global, a company committed to sustainability, shed light on their CSR activities, collaborating with NGOs like Jadavpur Bondhu Collective Social Welfare Society. The heartwarming inclusion of a performance by children from marginalized communities underscored the tangible impact of their initiatives.

To read the complete article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/pipe-dream-an-evening-with-anirban-andy-bhattacharya/


Anirban Bhattacharyya Sujoy Prasad Chatterjee Sudipta Chanda The Dreamers"

As Santa wraps up his last-minute gift packing for the festive season, let us take you on a journey through time and taste buds with a tale of a 16th-century English delicacy, the Christmas Cake that undergoes a delightful transformation in the heart of Calcutta. Join us in exploring the narrative of Aparajita’s Cake, a delectable twist on tradition in the City of Joy.

Aparajita’s Makha Sondesh Cake: A Unique Fusion

Aparajita’s Makha Sondesh Cake is a testament to her creativity and love for blending tradition with innovation. Inspired by the Christmas spirit of the city and the Bengali fondness for sweets, this unique dessert promises a symphony of flavors that captivate the taste buds.

Recipe

Ingredients

Flour-1cup
Sugar -1cup
Butter – 50g
Milk-50ml
Egg-2
Baking Powder 1&1/2tsp
Vanilla Essence
For filling
Maakha Sandesh-300g
Whipped cream 1/2cup

Method

For sponge

Melt the butter with the milk and let it cool.
In a bowl with the hand mixer mix the eggs till the colour becomes light add the sugar beat further when it becomes little frothy then add the dry ingredients mix it again add vanilla essence then add the milk.
Pour in tin and bake it in a preheated oven for 28 mins at 180 degree.
Before taking out just insert a stick in centre if comes out clean then it’s done.
Take out of the oven and let it cool completely.

To read the complete recipe and article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/christmas-cake-chronicles-aparajitas-magic/



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Discover Shahana Shome‘s musical journey through the enchanting ‘Old But Gold’ series on her official YouTube Channel. Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies of retro Bollywood songs as she pays heartfelt tribute to legendary composers and voices who shaped the golden era of Indian music.

In an era dominated by modern beats and digital rhythms, the timeless melodies of yesteryears are finding a passionate advocate in the young and talented singer, Shahana Shome. Her musical journey, which commenced in her childhood, has taken her from rendering ghazal classics to advocating for social causes. Now, with her latest endeavor, she is turning her attention to the golden melodies of retro Bollywood songs, celebrating the iconic creators who shaped the Indian music landscape.

Shahana Shome, known for her renditions of classics like “Mohabbat karne waale kam na honge” and “Yun Sajaa Chand,” and her advocacy for social causes like “Save the Girl child” and “Education for the underprivileged”, has launched a new series on her official YouTube Channel – ‘Shahana’s Music’. Titled ‘Old But Gold,’ this series is a heartfelt tribute to the evergreen Bollywood songs that have stood the test of time.

To read the whole article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/melodies-through-time/

We share this article on the occasion of World Toilet Day (19th November) which explores the cultural differences in a**l cleansing practices between Western countries and a third-world nation, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals from the latter when adapting to Western norms. Writes Dr. Puja Banerjee Barua

If there is anything that makes me think twice about a trip to any country in the West, it is (you will never guess!) the dilemma l face when l weigh the choices one has while attempting to cleanse one’s ‘behind’ after answering nature’s call!

I know l am using a rather strange term to describe a generally indescribable part of the body, butt (pun unintended!!) the alternatives are way worse! With a faint hope that you all have caught on to the general idea of what l am about to elaborate on, l am launching into the details.

Now in our third-world resource-poor country, for centuries together the norm has been to use a much endangered natural resource, water, uninhibitedly, for this purpose. And it holds for all religions, across class, creed and community. Whether it is Hinduism or Islam or Christianity, washing with water is the standard procedure. How that water is carried or procured may vary by region and other geographical factors. But water it is. The only difference in rural and urban settings would be the use of one’s own hand (mostly the left) in the former and of a hand-held sprinkler or jet-spray in the latter. In both cases, rigorous hand-washing with soap and water follows!

To read the complete article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/world-toilet-day-the-story-behind-behinds/









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Explore the historical significance of cultures and languages in the context of the film “Mujib: The Making of a Nation,” which portrays the life of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the Bengali Language movement. This review discusses the film’s portrayal of historical events, the performances of the cast, and its strengths and weaknesses, providing insights for potential viewers. Review by Somashis Gupta Mazumder with Arifin Shuvoo 𝐍𝐮𝐬𝐫𝐚𝐭 𝐈𝐦𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐓𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐚 Nusrat Faria Mujib - The Making of a Nation

Throughout history, civilizations have journeyed across the world, giving rise to fresh societies and cultures. These cultures and customs emerged as a result of the novel environments encountered by explorers during their travels. With the evolution of new cultures came the development of distinct languages, each holding its own unique and invaluable significance. Speaking of languages brings to mind a recent movie I watched, titled “Mujib: The Making of a Nation.”

The film “Mujib: The Making of a Nation” is a biographical portrayal of the life of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, one of the prominent Bengali leaders who fought the Bhasha Andolon (Language movement) to protest the imposition of Urdu as the national language of East Pakistan. This movement eventually led to the birth of what we know today as Bangladesh. It is worth mentioning here that International Mother Language Day is celebrated across the world to tribute the language movement of Bangladesh in 1971.

I am not only happy but also grateful to the legendary filmmaker Shyam Benegal who chose such a topic for his movie which largely remains unknown to many across the world. The movie is the first co-production between the National Film Development Corporation India and Bangladesh Film Development Corporation. The movie stars Arifin Shuvoo as the titular character, Sheikh Mujib, and Nusrat Imrose Tisha as his wife, Fazilatunnesa (Renu). The screenplay, skillfully penned by Atul Tiwari and Shama Zaidi, maintains a steady pace throughout the film. It interweaves anecdotes from Mujib’s life to evoke an emotional connection with the audience.

To read the complete review, click

Mujib: The Making of a Nation - Some views - East India Story Mujib: The Making of a Nation, a movie released recently has captivated audiences all across. This is a review of the movie.

Thanks for sharing Iman Chakraborty

Iman Chakraborty in America - East India Story Iman Chakraborty gives a mesmerizing performances in the United States during the Mahalaya weekend and Durga Puja celebrations.

“Tvam Swahaa, Tvam Swadhaa…” (concluding part of “Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu…”)

BY SANDIP GHOSH

PART 2

The invocation of Maa Durga has started. Today is Maha Shaptami, the seventh day of north India’s Navratri and the second day of Bengali Durga Puja

Tvam Swahaa Tvam Swadhaa Tvam Hi Vassattkaarah Swara-atmikaa

Sudhaa Tvam-Akssare Nitye Tridhaa Maatra-[A]atmikaa Sthitaa

(You are Swaha (Sacrificial oblations to the gods), You are Swadha (Sacrificial oblations to the manes), You are indeed Vasatkara (Exclamation during sacrifice after which the oblation is poured).

You are the essence behind these Swaras (Exclamations during sacrificial oblations, and thus the One to Whom all Sacrificial Oblations go),

You are the Nectar within the Akshara (Om), residing eternally as the essence behind the three Maatras (O-U-M).

Thus it is that we Her children have gathered to ensure that Maa has a pleasant time with us after Her arrival from Mount Kailash, and before She returns there after four days.

For in the meantime, Lord Shiva is watching us. (Did you fail to notice that on the top of every Durga idol in every pandal(marquee) is the image of Lord Shiva?)

Now then, having come to Her children, it is festivity time. So what will She do?

To read the complete article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/tvam-swahaatvam-swadhaa-concluding-part-of-ya-devi-sarvabhuteshu/







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Devi Durga, originally a non-A***n deity, came down the ages to be worshipped all over eastern India. Here, ahead of this year’s Durga Puja, we bring the mythology as well as history of Durgotsav

By Sandip Ghosh

PART 1

Here comes, from October 11 this year, the biggest and most grandiose religious festival of Eastern India, but do we know the worshipping of the female deity started 22,000 years ago?

Unlike in the rest of India, where the same concept of Mother Goddess Durga is worshipped as a single idol over nine days, in the east, she is worshipped for five days, accompanied by her four children, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik and Ganesh.

So where did it all begin?

Oral and written history of A***n civilization shows that of the four castes prevalent in India in ancient times, the Brahmans, Kshatriyas and Vaishyas, were all entitled to perform the worship of Goddess Durga,

But the Sudras were not, for there was no place for these ‘subalterns’ in the scheme of religious identity of Bharatvarsh.

The pantheon of A***ns was predominantly male deities. The Rig Veda, for instance, mentions just two female deities: Usha, and Saraswati.

To read the complete article, go to
https://eastindiastory.com/ya-devi-sarvabhuteshu/

As the Mahalaya weekend heralded the onset of Durga Puja celebrations in North America, Bengali communities across the United States were in for a special treat this year. Prominent artists from India graced many American cities, enthralling audiences with their performances. Among these celebrated artists was the National Award-winning singer, Iman Chakraborty, who was commemorating a significant milestone in her career – a decade of enthralling US concert tours.

Iman Chakraborty’s journey in the United States began a decade ago, with her first show in Atlanta, Georgia, followed by a spectacular performance in Somerset, New Jersey. The highlight of the evening was Iman’s electrifying rendition of the timeless classic, “Aigiri Nandini.” Her captivating performance set the stage on fire and set the tone for a memorable evening.

Iman Chakraborty’s concert was not just a solo act; it was an interactive experience with her adoring fans. Requests for her ever-popular songs, including “Tapa Tini,” “Rangabati,” “Tumi Jaake Bhalobasho,” and many others, poured in from the enthusiastic audience. A particularly beautiful moment unfolded when the audience chimed in to sing Rabindranath Tagore’s eternal masterpiece, “Majhe Majhe Tobo Dekha,” alongside their beloved singer. This heartwarming interaction between the artist and her fans created an unforgettable memory.

To read the complete article, go to https://eastindiastory.com/iman-chakraborty-in-america/









The Dreamers"
Sudipta Chanda

The slightest nip in the air…a deep breath… and there it is again! The pujo pujo gondho…. I cannot quite put my finger on it. The actual dates are some days away. Is it the Shiuli phool that has begun to blossom and spread its distinctive fragrance all around? Or is it the buzz of suppressed excitement all around me? Or the Kaash phool whose lovely heads can be seen swaying in the wind?! A thrill goes through my being in anticipation of the Sharadiyo rhitu which heralds that which is dear to every Bengali’s heart, in fact, every Easterner’s heart… Sharadiyo Utsav, our very own Durga Pujo!

Scenes from my early childhood replay in my head…a dim awareness of my parents bustling about in the wee hours of the morning on Mahalaya… my father bathed and sitting cross-legged in front of the thakurer aashon or shrine and offering til/sesame and water in observance of Til Tarpan, a customary offering of food and water to our departed ancestors on the last day of Pitri-paksha ; my mother too bathed and assisting him, while the All India Radio, Guwahati station, played Birendra Krishna Bhadra’s Chandi Path. There was something sublime and surreal about the whole scene.

Immediately post Mahalaya, things would begin to spice up. There was the frenzy of Pujo shopping…a much-awaited affair. The whole family would troop off to Fancy Bazaar and after hours and hours of endless window shopping, haggling amongst ourselves, haggling with the shopkeepers, snacking on samosas, mishtis and cups of chaa at Lakkhi Cabin, return home with the buys, battle-weary but with smiles on all our faces! Pujo was incomplete without Pujor jama-kapor!

To read the complete article, go tohttps://eastindiastory.com/durga-pujo-our-pride-asthami-specialasthami-special/

Writen by Puja Banerjee Barua, who is a child specialist by profession and a humanist by passion, her soul is stirred by humane acts of selflessness and love.








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Every year, as autumn descends upon the vibrant city of Kolkata, the streets come alive with a palpable sense of excitement and fervor. The reason behind this unparalleled enthusiasm is none other than the grand and much-awaited festival of Durga Puja. Celebrated with unparalleled zeal in West Bengal, this festival transcends mere religious observance, transforming into an artistic, cultural, and social phenomenon. The city turns into a canvas for creativity, showcasing breathtaking artistry and craftsmanship that never ceases to amaze.

In 2023, the Burmashell Durga Puja Committee of Sodepur has managed to pull off a feat that allows you to take a journey to one of the most iconic architectural wonders of the world, the Paris Opera House, without leaving the City of Joy. This stunning pandal stands as a testament to the incredible dedication and artistic prowess of the craftsmen involved. With meticulous attention to detail, the Burmashell Durga Puja Committee has recreated the Paris Opera House, complete with its intricate design and exquisite workmanship.

To read more, go to https://eastindiastory.com/a-parisian-extravaganza-at-burmashell-durga-puja-committee/

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Photographs by Gopal Dey
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