#Bengali Stories For Children

[booksmets]

Lipika by Rabindranath Tagore PDF

Lipika by Rabindranath Tagore Bengali Books PDF. Name of Book – Lipika, Author – Rabindranath Tagore, Genre – Bengali Short story, Book Format – PDF, PDF size – 7 MB, Rabindranath Tagore wrote the Short story Lipika for Children. Rabindranath Tagore, the renowned Indian poet, writer, and philosopher, was a multifaceted literary figure who made significant contributions to various genres,…

[imab00kwh0r3]

babel, and why i love it (SPOILERS!!!!)

ok im terribly late to reading it, for its not sold in many places where i live, so i found the pdf luckily.

babel is a book about colonialism and racism and oppression, it is about revolution and battling your inner conscience (in my opinion at least, i'll elaborate later). it tells the story of robin swift coming to the prestigious royal institute of translation or better known as babel, where during his yrs there he discovers that the glamourous oxford university isnt such a righteous place. his loyalty is tested, blood is shed and tears fall which leads up to a revolution to stop an incoming war.

there are many reviews regarding how its racist to white ppl (which is astounding to even think about) and that its not accurate as women werent allowed to go to university in the 1830s but im not going to talk about that, that much. i wanted to speak on the actual translation/language aspect of it.

throughout the book, translation and language r some of the main themes (obviously) but the impact it has on the people, both in the book and irl is smth i havent seen anyone mention. language isnt just a form of communication but it is part of our culture, it is part of our identity, and during colonial times many languages suffered, they were being erased as they were "barbaric" or "strange" they were banned and anyone who spoke them was punished like in victoires chapter. robin, ramy and victoire all can barely speak their native languages, robin has almost fogotten cantonese, ramy has very basic knowledge of bengali and victoire is never given a chance or is permitted to speak in haitian creole. they lost one of the main things that connects them to their motherland, they only have their appearance left. they will never be able to talk to their ppl properly.

victoire was frustrated that haitian creole isnt recognised as a proper language like how in their exams, her match-pair wouldnt be counted properly as haitian creole wouldnt be used much hence its "useless" in the eyes of prof. leblanc. she was beaten when she would speak haitian croele in her house in france. when she first came to babel she was correcting herself from "kreyol" to "haitian creole" and was unsure if she could even study it.

robin realised that prof.lovell actually knew more than him about his own language, his mother tongue. he could barely stand being back in canton and he felt isolated in a way as everything changed and was new and so was the language even though he was born hearing and speaking it.

not much is talked about this with ramy except that he barely knows bengali, even though hes fluent in english, latin, greek, arabic, persian and urdu. he knows 6 languages and in his chapter he is sed to "absorb languages like a sponge" and that he recited poems or writing in other languages he didnt know perfectly, even down to tone, only after having it read to him once but he barely knows his mother tongue.

this relates to modern times as many languages of previously colonised countries rely on english words like in india u will barely hear the word pathshala, instead u will hear school. in mauritian creole when people speak they will slip in english words, like "netwai whiteboard la" which means clean the whiteboard.

we dont know our language fully because of the erasure of them.

theres also 1st gen immigrant children where their mother tongue is smth they barely hear or they forgot after a while, they feel so incredibly disconnected once they realise. this is how robin is and this is how i am too, i was born in europe, then at 7 i moved to england and now im somewhere entirely different, i dont remember my mother tongue, i dont dream in it. which ultimately makes u lose ur voice in a metaphorical way.

u cant speak because u dont know how.

another important thing is the purposeful mistranslations and burning of books, thats not fully discussed in the book although it would have been a nice touch. colonisers purposefully mistranslated things to control the masses because when they burnt our books, they burnt our language, knowledge and people. and the exploitation of our languages like the statue at univ of william jones sitting at desk and 3 hindu sages on the floor infront of him exists, and how missionaries were taught our languages to help in conversion.

now onto the 1830s inaccuracies and racism:

its the fucking 1830s do u think white ppl were nice to poc at this time, like slavery just ended in the eyes of the law for britain but still continued in other places like america. reverse racism doesnt exist, white ppl can be prejudiced against but u lot r not oppressed and never will be, u lot wont be killed for being white, so stop crying. and about the women wouldnt be at university in the 1830s thing its fiction, r.f. kuang took some liberties.

and that is all i have to say, dont start an argument, anyways babel is great, go read it!!

[whippersnappersbookworm]

So I saw a lot of criticism by the Sanghis that Hindu mythology is not something one should write fanfiction about or that it's a religion, and therefore people shouldn't interpret and create stories of their own. But let me tell you something: the culture of fanfiction and re-interpretation of Hindu mythology is not at all new; it has been going on for decades.

So, as I said before in the blog, I am a Bengali, so most of the examples I will give are from Bengali literature. So Krishna is a huge part of these fandoms, and a lot of people write and draw things related to him. But this is definitely not a new thing; it has been going on since the time of Joydev's Geeta Govinda and Vidyapati's Vaishnav Padabali. There is a famous poem by Rabindranath Tagore:

শুধু বৈকুণ্ঠের তরে বৈষ্ণবের গান!

পূর্বরাগ, অনুরাগ, মান অভিমান,

অভিসার, প্রেমলীলা, বিরহ মিলন,

বৃন্দাবন-গাথা,—এই প্রণয়-স্বপন

শ্রাবণের শর্ব্বরীতে কালিন্দীর কূলে,

চারি চক্ষে চেয়ে দেখা কদম্বের মূলে

সরমে সম্ভ্রমে, —এ কি শুধু দেবতার!

Which translates to

"Are the songs of Vaishnav for Baikuntha alone?

Courting, attachment, sulkiness, sensitiveness,

Tryst, dalliances, parting and union, theme of,

The songs of Brindaban – this dream of love,

In the Shraban night on the bank of the Kalindi

The meeting of the four eyes under the Kadambatree

In blushing adoration - are these all for the Lord?

Most of the Vaishnav Padaboli and Radha Krishna Leela poets were very much influenced by their personal lives, which makes sense because they never really saw Radha Krishna with their own eyes, so obviously they need some kind of reference and muse for their works. For example, it is said that Vidyapati drew inspiration from the real relationship between a man and woman in that contemporary period for Radha and Krishna. He created the character of Radha from the very image of an adolescent, joyous young girl of that time period. His radha has a lot of human qualities. Then Chandidas, another important poet, apparently based Radha on his own lover, Rami. Rami was a lower-caste woman with whom Chandidas had an affair, but he couldn't marry her because it was not socially acceptable. Chandidas's Radha is portrayed as a sad woman, mourning for her lover from the very beginning, even before she meets Krishna, and it didn't change even when she was united with Krishna, as she was based on Rami, a woman who could never be with the man she loved due to society. Apart from them, the poets who composed Radha Krishna hymns during and after the rise of Sri Chaitanya in Bengal started including Chaitanya in their poetry. They wrote hymns dedicated to Chaitanya alongside Krishna; some of them even started crafting similar descriptions and personalities for both Radha and Chaitanya. It's from their narrative that Radha's love for Krishna symbolises devotees love for god; it was literally Krishna x Chaitanya. CHAITANYA FANFIC!!)

Apart from Vaishnav Padabali, we can also find examples of such works in Sakhta Padabali. For example, the whole concept of Durga pujo in Bengali is inspired by married women visiting their paternal family once a year with their children. The poets basically localised the mighty goddess Durga as a young girl married to Shiva, who is old and penniless. Several poets, like Ramprasad Sen and Kamalakanto (I don't remember his title), wrote hymns from the point of view of Menaka (Parvathi's mother) as she begged Giriraj (Parvati's father) to bring her daughter back. She chides Giriraj for marrying her young daughter to Shiva, who is old and penniless and roams in the crematorium with his ghost acquaintances. She worries about her young daughter suffering all alone in the Himalaya with no one to take care of. Isn't this also a kind of fanfiction? Where goddesses are made into normal women?

Also, if we talk about Mahabharat and the Ramayana, they also had fanfiction even before the rise of Wattpad and Tumblr. All the translations (except a few) adopted these epics in such a way that they could fit into their culture and contemporary society. It's a known fact that Tulsidas's Ramayan deviates a lot from the original one (Maya Sita, vegetarianism, etc.).

So in a way, it can be a retelling of some sort. So if we are shitting upon the culture of retelling and fanfiction, we should also talk about these examples, not only the modern ones. The truth is that retellings and fanfictions are necessary for these types of stories to survive. It makes sense that one modifies these age-old stories so they can fit into contemporary society. Every piece of ancient literature, be it the Greek epics, the Bible, or Hindu mythology, has its own share of retelling and fanfiction. These are not owned by a certain group of people; they don't have the right to gatekeep. People can and should explore these stories from their own point of view. They have the right to rewrite and retell the stories from a modern perspective. So before you chide a blog on Tumblr for writing Mahabharata-inspired fanfiction or incorrect quotes or bully them for writing a canonically incorrect ship,or critices them for writing self insert fic with Krishna stop and think for a second.

[scarletpearlsstuff]

I leave, but then…

I’m a leaver, I leave everything midway. Tea, driving classes, crash courses, jobs, story books, movies, relationships, and to-do lists. But over the past year I’ve realised, there is one thing I complete. I go from A to Z.

My mother and grandmothers from both the sides had their own fable of cooking. Right from bati chocchori a femine taught dish to Thakur dalan er ranna, I got to taste devouring Bengali dishes all my life.

Cooking has attracted my attention since childhood, before I realised I was foodie. I sat by these ladies, kept looking at their hands doing the magic. There were no spoons to measure, no recipe book they would look into, and of course YouTube was an aline. It was just intuitions, love and kindness to serve a patriarchal family.

By the rule book the men always ate first, followed by the children. Women? You know. I got my sheer taste of spending my days in join families. So it was the cousins, irrespective of gender who sat together for the meals. The only thing that made gender biasness in that cousins’ table was- the boys were served the larger pice of mach, an extra Chingri mach, two extra paneers and a bit more care.

All the fun that I’ve had in the kitchen faded with that extra for the boys. I wanted to have some more food. Only to realise in my teens, it was not the food, it was biasness that made me sad and jealous.

I vouched I’ll not enter the kitchen, will serve big pieces to the girls, and will fight for my chingri Mach. This worried the men and women of the house without a pinch of gender-role to meddle.

Made my way to college, got away from home and just when I thought I’ll be free, adulting started knocking. Apart from many a things I had to do during my mess days, cooking was the far more irritating and important thing. Numerous failed attempts of making a perfect roti to fry the fish perfectly, I realised cooking was rather a life skill and an art.

With all the love and loathsome cooking I did, hiring a cook later and Swiggy-Zomato later that I’ve managed to fill my tummy.

But deep down, I missed the taste of childhood. Ma’s cooking and seeing the whole gala of the kitchen. I decided, I’m gonna cook myself now onwards. With day in and day out, I discovered a fact about myself. The leaver is not a leaver when it comes to cooking.

Right from the deciding the menu, chopping the veggies, washing the mach mangsho and more, measuring the masalas, calling ma for guidance and indulging in YouTube cook channels, and dishing the food, I completed tasks.

This whole hullabaloo of the kitchen is therapeutic for me (exceptions be considered).

Am I a good cook?

Yet to reach there.

Will I keep cooking?

No.

Do I enjoy it?

Thoroughly.

With a lot being said and shared, I’m ending this blog with a quote,

“Cooking is like painting or writing a song. Just as there are only so many notes or colors, there are only so many flavors—it’s how you combine them that sets you apart.”
– Wolfgang Puck

[that-mad-indian-woman]

I haath been sent from beyond to enquire as to what you actually do on Mahalaya...

(Definitely not a bangali wanting you to infodump)

So before I go into what I MYSELF do in mahalaya, I will pretext it by giving some context into what mahalaya actually is.

So. What is mahalaya?

Mahalaya is typically known as the beginning of devipaksha. These "pakshas" Are usually demarcated by the movements of the moon. One fortnight from one full moon to the next is one "paksha". This one is particularly known as " Devipaksha " Because the Mythological story goes as follows(which we grew up listening to from our grandpas)

So when the earth was created, it was believed to be a huge great sea and Vishnu laid at its depths, deep in sleep. Then from his earlobe emerged two demons, madhu and kaitav who wreaked havoc on earth. Lord brahma emerged from vishnu's navel and pleaded the Lord to wake and destroy the evils. After months of meditation, vishnu woke finally. What followed was a war over 5000 years and at the end, when vishnu was exhausted and the demons still remained, he pleaded to Goddess Adishakti who emerged and charmed the demons with her beauty. Vishnu took the chance and killed the demons. Mahalaya is believed to be the day The devi helped in this destruction of evil, so the following fourteen days are said to be "Devi" Paksha.

Now, there's another side of this story. To us bengalis, mahalaya is also believed to be the time devi parvati comes back to her father's house with all her children. Parvati is considered as "barir meye" (Daughter of the house) by almost all bengalis, so pujo is technically a celebration of parvati's homecoming.

To the general kolkata-citizens however; mahalaya implies pujos are close, so celebrations and planning have to be started soon;)

SO, WHAT DO PEOPLE DO IN MAHALAYA?

If one fine day in october, you see your bengali friend wake up at 4am and go up to the terrace; check the dates. Cause it might be mahalaya.

To be completely honest here, not much happens on mahalaya. But it's the time when the clouds are clear, the sun is red in the horizon and Our own daughter is coming back home. Which is why the traditional way of celebrating mahalaya iss waking up when there are still twinkling stars in the sky and watch sunrise. this is usually followed by listening to agomoni songs (agomon=arrival in bengali) and mahalaya recited by one legendary man. We have all listened to the exact same version of mahalaya over the years. My grandpa listened to it as a kid, my father listened to it as a kid, and i myself listen to it every year now. It's mahalaya recited by birendra kishore bhodro. There's a certain spirituality in listening to the fables of destruction of evil by a supreme power while watching the red sun lick the skies and the morning light come to being. for any of you interested, here's the link:

Anyway, there are also TV shows during mahalaya, that show the stories behind the various forms of durga that is worshipped all over bengal in sort of a theatrical manner. As far as i remember, there are 108 forms, all of the same goddess, banishing different evils.

To sum it up, mahalaya for us(or atleast me) is a day to get slightly in contact with the spiritual side of the pujos that follow. Because in the hocus-pocus of all the fun and plans that usually signify pujo, it's usually extremely easy to lose track of what it is actually all about-the victory of good over evil, and ceelbrating women-power through femininity.

@vellibandi @pinkpdf @dhuup

[rockislandadultreads]

Libby eBook Spotlight: 2023 Debut Authors

Lies We Sing to the Sea by Sarah Underwood

Each spring, Ithaca condemns twelve maidens to the noose. This is the price vengeful Poseidon demands for the lives of Queen Penelope’s twelve maids, hanged and cast into the depths centuries ago.

But when that fate comes for Leto, death is not what she thought it would be. Instead, she wakes on a mysterious island and meets a girl with green eyes and the power to command the sea. A girl named Melantho, who says one more death can stop a thousand.

The prince of Ithaca must die - or the tides of fate will drown them all.

Lunar Love by Lauren Kung Jessen

Always a matchmaker, never a match...

Olivia Huang Christenson is excited-slash-terrified to be taking over her grandmother’s matchmaking business. But when she learns that a new dating app has made her Pó Po’s traditional Chinese zodiac approach all about “animal attraction,” her emotions skew more toward furious-slash-outraged. Especially when L.A.’s most-eligible bachelor Bennett O’Brien is behind the app that could destroy her family’s legacy...

Liv knows better than to fall for any guy, let alone an infuriatingly handsome one who believes that traditions are meant to be broken. As the two businesses go head to head, Bennett and Liv make a deal: they’ll find a match for each other - and whoever falls in love loses. But Liv is dealing with someone who’s already adept at stealing business ideas... so what’s stopping him from stealing her heart too?

River Sing Me Home by Eleanor Shearer

The master of the Providence plantation in Barbados gathers his slaves and announces the king has decreed an end to slavery. As of the following day, the Emancipation Act of 1834 will come into effect. The cries of joy fall silent when he announces that they are no longer his slaves; they are now his apprentices. No one can leave. They must work for him for another six years. Freedom is just another name for the life they have always lived. So Rachel runs.

Away from Providence, she begins a desperate search to find her children - the five who survived birth and were sold. Are any of them still alive? Rachel has to know. The grueling, dangerous journey takes her from Barbados then, by river, deep into the forest of British Guiana and finally across the sea to Trinidad. She is driven on by the certainty that a mother cannot be truly free without knowing what has become of her children, even if the answer is more than she can bear. These are the stories of Mary Grace, Micah, Thomas Augustus, Cherry Jane and Mercy. But above all this is the story of Rachel and the extraordinary lengths to which a mother will go to find her children...and her freedom.

The Love Match by Priyanka Taslim

Zahra Khan is basically Bangladeshi royalty, but being a princess doesn’t pay the bills in Paterson, New Jersey. While Zahra’s plans for financial security this summer involve working long hours at Chai Ho and saving up for college writing courses, Amma is convinced that all Zahra needs is a “good match,” Jane Austen-style.

Enter Harun Emon, who’s wealthy, devastatingly handsome, and... aloof. As soon as Zahra meets him, she knows it’s a bad match. It’s nothing like the connection she has with Nayim Aktar, the new dishwasher at the tea shop, who just gets Zahra in a way no one has before.

So, when Zahra finds out that Harun is just as uninterested in this match as she is, they decide to slowly sabotage their parents’ plans. And for once in Zahra’s life, she can have her rossomalai and eat it: “dating” Harun and keeping Amma happy while catching real feelings for Nayim.

But life - and boys - can be more complicated than Zahra realizes. With her feelings all mixed up, Zahra discovers that sometimes being a good Bengali kid can be a royal pain.

[jalebi-likes]

Heya my fellow Bengali mjht fan. I was rewatching the show for the hundredth time and had a few questions

1-why Gunjan was so against Samrat lung to her but helped Nupur lie to Mayank? Is that not hypocrisy?

2-Why Diya and Benji were given a open ended ending? Is that cz they wanted to keep it realistic and show not all college couples end up together?

3-Why was babuji so harsh on Nupur Mayank? He was always shown as the more understanding chilld one while Buinis the uptight strict one. But after the marriage even Bui wanted Nupur and mayank to be accepted and begged to their father ki yelog kaha jayege plz man jao.

4-Who falling in love track was handled best as per you opinion? I feel Mayank and Samrat's was handled best,while Gunjan and Nupur's being kind of rushed.

5-What was the point of Adhiraj and Suhani? They came and left within few episodes. Their love story was so rushed and they ven got engaged so quicklym and we never ever hear fromSamrat's sister Suhani while he's going through so much troubles after the leap.

Hello my fellow Bengali <3

Rewatching MJHT just gives me all the fuzzy feels *dance*

But yes, let's get to answering all the questions :)

1 ) Because Nupur is her sister.

You always bend rules, and are a little hypocritical for your own family. And there's a difference between lying and being lied to. Gunjan is always uneasy when she has to partake in a lie or assist any of her near or dear one in lying, but she has zero tolerance when she's being lied to. She even snaps at Nupur when she learns that Nupur lied to Gunjan to take her audio for the talent contest.

2) Yes! Not all college couples end up together!

College is a bubble, real life is not. You meet so many more people - your priorities shape your personality and there's so many future goals and ideologies that affect your life post college. Be it finance, religion, career, children, responsibilities - so many things can make/break a relationship. So, in fact, their ending is the most realistic one. An ex-couple meet again at a mutual friend's wedding. There are sparks, but that's their own story to have.

3) Oh Babuji was COMPLETELY RIGHT. Oh Babuji was incredibly understanding. Imagine, he had told his children to keep his name, his honor, and continue the upbringing he had given as a single parent. His kids are his pride and he must have faced a lot being a single dad. He loves and trusts his kid intensely. At no point was he ever the father to whom Nupur could not communicate that she would like to marry someone else.

And coming from the small town, Shashi must have faced a lot of criticism for sending his kids outside to Mumbai. They would blame him for ruining his kids cause they wouldn't go and study there, rather they'd begin lying, have an affair, etc.

And what happens? Exactly that.

Yes, Nupur does become a brilliant student thanks to Mayank, but how does Shashi even learn about Mayank? That Nupur duped a family friend's son with a false identity, have him date another girl altogether, because she was have an affair with another boy.

That's the worst situation possible. And even then, when Nupur cries to him how great Mayank is, Shashi is ready to put aside his own hurt and his sister's multiple warnings about the situation and meet Mayank.

However, luck is truly against them because he oversees Mayank convincing Nupur to run away with him.

Just why wouldn't he dislike Mayank and Nupur's relationship?

And Shashi isn't really conservation because when he sees how much Samrat cares for Gunjan, he instantly approves of them being a pair - to the point that he's surprised when Gunjan is resistant to that (because she's in a wheelchair).

4) Ok, my favorite falling in love goes to Mayank-Nupur. I loved the contrast of how the practical Mayank does start feeling a lot of filmy things. It was really well balanced in him. And Nupur was so caught in the fancy of it that she didn't know what to do when she actually fell in love? And their confession was gorgeous as well. Samrat's falling in love was STUNNING, Gunjan's was cute - but neither's appealed to me when it came to confession. I felt they dragged it too much. Like Gunjan, I get they were going once bitten twice shy but, for God's sake, her reciprocity in everything just died with the confession and omg that one day that took a whole WEEK with just them doing ping pong over saying emotions? I had a FAB time editing most of it out cause the scenes were repetitive AS HELL.

Falling in love - Gunjan's was the cutest and best (like low-key Valentine's was perfect, you SAW her falling).

Realizing love - Samrat's was best (I get goosebumps with the whole Khabar Nahi and Khuda Jaane moment).

The whole love track - Mayank Nupur (from resistance to confession, perfect)

Staying in love - Mayank Nupur (their in-couple dynamics was the best)

5) To be honest, I kinda did like them, lol. I know it's an unpopular opinion! But it got the plot forward for me.

I've seen a lot of random people in many shows come in and I think Adhiraj Suhani are the only entries in a show that didn't hurt a show as badly as other characters do (cough Bubbly in IPK cough Komal in Begusarai cough Sheetal Aarav in IPK cough Jyoti Prakash Preeti in CJL)

I found it very interesting on how they tied MayUr and SaJan together with this one pair. Like bringing Bablu back? Great idea! I do find it very odd that they're never mentioned again, not even in words. I do think they suffered issues with allotting screen time to which couple on screen. And I think they were spot on with MayUr and I get where they were trying to go with SuRaj, but they started writing SaJan off character.

Like I hated how dismissive Gunjan was of Samrat's trauma. She has NO idea of his past, she was really let off the hook very easily for a grave error. She is in no position to dictate that Samrat should reconcile with his mother/sister. There was also a lot of unnecessary scenes and comedy as well...

I do like them as a track.

And they also knew how to keep SuRaj different from the rest of the pairs. These are the love at first sight type of people. They both think they're the heroes. They both fall in love hard. They're both ready to instantly marry. They're both dramatic. They're just the same person in many ways. Getting to know each other though? That's something that takes time with them.

Which isn't the case for MayUr and SaJan.

However, this point is also the beginning of writing Gunjan off key. Like I start to dislike Gunjan from hereon and I don't quite recover my initial love for her. It's also a place where Samrat and Gunjan's relationship start getting very very imbalanced. He keeps viewing her as perfect and she as 'sigh, Samrat always needs help' mode.

And for how much time SuRaj existed, I'd easily write Samrat having lived in London those three years with his family and only returning to Excel upon his mum's wish because she realized that even in London with his family next to him, Samrat was getting wasted away.

And I'd easily keep SuRaj in mention through a dialogue or two - because they expand Samrat's universe in a sense.

I just don't think Adhiraj and Suhani were as well executed as they could be. They were introduced brilliantly. And I don't think they were a problem to me as much as SaJan became an issue. I LOVED Samrat. I loved the idea of him just not being the only cool person out there cause dude that's what real life looks like.

Gunjan, my love and soul... was a little too unrecognizable. I don't even know why she loved Suhani so much? I'd have a hard time bonding with someone with whom my partner has trauma with!

I hope you like these overtly detailed answers, lol.

Keep hulchuling,

S

[pritishsblog]

BEST DIRECTORS IN CINEMA-3

Hi everyone! This blog is going to be the 3rd part of 8 Part Series of who I think are the Best Directors Cinema as ever seen

And today I will be talking about

SATYAJIT RAY

Satyajit Ray (born May 2, 1921, Calcutta [now Kolkata], India—died April 23, 1992, Calcutta) was a Bengali motion-picture director, writer, and illustrator who brought the Indian cinema to world recognition with Pather Panchali (1955; The Song of the Road) and its two sequels, known as the Apu Trilogy. As a director, Ray was noted for his humanism, his versatility, and his detailed control over his films and their music. He was one of the greatest filmmakers of the 20th century.

(Early Life)

Ray was an only child whose father died in 1923. His grandfather was a writer and illustrator, and his father, Sukumar Ray, was a writer and illustrator of Bengali nonsense verse. Ray grew up in Calcutta (now Kolkata) and was looked after by his mother. He entered a government school, where he was taught chiefly in Bengali, and then studied at Presidency College, Calcutta’s leading college, where he was taught in English. By the time he graduated in 1940, he was fluent in both languages. In 1940 his mother persuaded him to attend art school at Santiniketan, Rabindranath Tagore’s rural university northwest of Calcutta. There Ray, whose interests had been exclusively urban and Western-oriented, was exposed to Indian and other Eastern art and gained a deeper appreciation of both Eastern and Western culture, a harmonious combination that is evident in his films.

(His Famous Works)

Ray's first film, Pather Panchali (1955) won eleven international prizes, including the inaugural Best Human Document award at the 1956 Cannes Film Festival. This film, along with Aparajito (1956) and Apur Sansar (The World of Apu) (1959), form The Apu Trilogy. Ray did the scripting, casting, scoring, and editing, and designed his own credit titles and publicity material. He also authored several short stories and novels, primarily for young children and teenagers. Popular characters created by Ray include Feluda the sleuth, Professor Shonku the scientist, Tarini Khuro the storyteller, and Lalmohan Ganguly the novelist.

(Filmmaking Style)

His Filmmaking

Ray had been subconsciously paying a tribute to Jean Renoir throughout his career, who influenced him the most.Ray considered script-writing to be an integral part of direction. Initially he refused to make a film in any language other than Bengali. In his two non-Bengali feature films, he wrote the script in English; translators adapted it into Hindustani under Ray's supervision.The narrative structure of Ray's films are represented by musical forms such as sonata, fugue and rondo. Kanchenjunga, Nayak and Aranyer Din Ratri are examples of this structure.

(His Filmography)

Ray made over 36 feature film in his 4 decade long. He made movies such as Pather Panchali in 1955,Aparajito in 1956,Parash Pathar and Jalsaghar in 1958, Apur Sansar in 1959, Devi in 1960. He made movies such as Teen Kanya in 1961, Kanchenjungha and Abhijan in 1962,Mahanagar in 1963,Charulata and Two I'm 1964,Kapurush-0-Mahapurush in 1965,Nayak in 1966,Chiriyakhana in 1967,Goopy Gyne & Bagha Byne in 1969,Aranyer Din Ratri and Pratiwandi in 1970, Seemabaddha and Sikkim in 1971,Inner Eyes in 1972,Ashani Sanket in 1973,Sonar Kella in 1974,Jana Aranyw in 1975,Bala in 1976,Shatranj ka Khilari in 1977,Joi Baba Felunath in 1979,Hirak Rajar Deshe and Pikoo in 1980,Sadgati in 1981,Ghare Bhare in 1984,Sukumar Ray in 1987,Ganashatru and Shakha Proshakha in 1990,Agantuk in 1990.

Satyajit Ray on 1994 stamp of India

Portrait of Satyajit Ray

(Awards & Honors)

Ray received many awards including 36 National Film Awards. He was awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1985 and Legion Of Honor in 1987. The Government of India also awarded him with Padma Bhusan in 1965. He also received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1992 at the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. He also won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival

(Legacy)

Ray is considered one of the greatest film directors of all time. He is a cultural icon in India and in Bengali communities worldwide. Following his death, the city of Calcutta came to a virtual standstill, as hundreds of thousands of people gathered around his house to pay their last respects. Ray's influence has been widespread and deep in Bengali cinema; many Bengali directors, including Aparna Sen, Rituparno Ghosh and Gautam Ghose as well as Vishal Bhardwaj, Dibakar Banerjee, Shyam Benegal and Sujoy Ghosh from Hindi cinema in India, Tareq Masud and Tanvir Mokammel in Bangladesh, and Aneel Ahmad in England, have been influenced by his craft.Beyond India, filmmakers Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, George Lucas, James Ivory, Abbas Kiarostami, Elia Kazan, William Wyler,François Truffaut, John Huston, Carlos Saura, Isao Takahata, Oliver Stone,Quentin Tarantino, Wes Anderson,Danny Boyle and Christopher Nolan.

(Sources)

And that's it for this part folks, I'll meet you with another blog about some the Greatest Directors Cinema has ever seen, Until then

CIAO

[finishinglinepress]

NEW FROM FINISHING LINE PRESS: Like Silencing the Wind by Pearl Karrer

On SALE now! Pre-order Price Guarantee: https://www.finishinglinepress.com/product/like-silencing-the-wind-by-pearl-karrer/

Like Silencing the Wind threads themes of conflict and war through #poems that affirm our shared #humanity. They cross barriers of time and continents, beginning with Rodin’s nude bronze of a helmet maker’s wife. Along the way a photograph evokes a French battle-field; a Gaustaus room, a German one. In Plivička, cascading lakes witness a policeman’s murder. War damaged houses lament their lost families. An Armenian girl in a Copper Age cave, a California vet with one leg, a bomb injured Boston Marathoner, Yucatan natives dreaming in thatch palapas, a Taureg nomad, all come to #life on the pages. Ending in Afghanistan, a murdered woman’s voice for freedom carries on the wind.

With a background in microbiology and music, Pearl Karrer currently teaches piano, exhibits art in juried shows and writes poetry. Her poems appear in many anthologies and journals such as Red Wheelbarrow, Slant, The Comstock Review. She has three chapbooks: Weathering (Slapering Hol Press), The Thorn Fence (Finishing Line Press) and Balanced Between Water and Sky (Finishing Line Press). After many years of editing, she has retired from the California Quarterly.

PRAISE FOR Like Silencing the Wind by Pearl Karrer

War pervades Pearl Karrer’s Like Silencing the Wind, passed down through family, a WWI nurse bearing the loss of her fiancé, a boy missing his older brother serving in WWII, children playing war games, a one-legged vet. Even the landscape contains memories of what happened there: trees slashed, waterfalls reminding the speaker of the beginnings of war in Croatia. Thoughts of war interrupt the enjoyment of berry picking, an autumn evening walk. Yet the poetry’s sensory language posits a way to survive the inevitable hurt. It insists that though we are all affected by what happens on the other side of the world we can bear some of the weight of it together.

–Stephanie Bloom Pressman

In Like Silencing the Wind, Pearl Karrer takes her inspiration from marvelously varied sources, offering images of natural wonder from the Plitviĉka waterfalls in Croatia to twin apricot moons rising over a Mayan landscape, each scene brimming with vivid details that bring even the inanimate to life. Karrer spins tales from family photographs in rural Montana, wartime memories of a farmhouse in Croatia, intimations of self in a Rodin sculpture, heart-rending scenes from Afghanistan, Syria, and Boston, ending with the story of a Bengali woman who crossed boundaries and worlds, like wind, with a voice that can’t be silenced. Here are reflections, echoes, reverberations across continents and millennia, each a mirror in which we see our humanity, its violence and tragedy, hope and creative resilience.

–Terry Ehret

Please share/repost #flpauthor #preorder #AwesomeCoverArt #read #poems #literature #poetry #life

[ismahanescorner]

Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating | Book Review

Author: Adiba Jaigirdar

Genre: YA Contemporary, Queer YA

Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books

Release date: 25/05/2021

Rating: 4/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Synopsis:

Everyone likes Hani Kahn—she’s easy going and one of the most popular girls at school. But when she comes out to her friends as bisexual, they invalidate her identity, saying she can’t be bi if she’s only dated guys. Panicked, Hani blurts out that she’s in a relationship…with a girl her friends absolutely hate—Ishita Dey. Ishita is the complete opposite of Hani. She’s an academic overachiever who hopes that becoming head girl will set her on the right track for college. But Ishita agrees to help Hani, if Hani will help her become more popular so that she stands a chance of being elected head girl.  Despite their mutually beneficial pact, they start developing real feelings for each other. But relationships are complicated, and some people will do anything to stop two Bengali girls from achieving happily ever after.

Review: TW//: islamophobia, racism, biphobia. 

I had high hopes going into this one cuz I’ve already read this author’s debut and loved it dearly; and guess what? this book didn’t disappoint!  I really liked the story! It’s a well done fluffy sapphic YA romance that featured two amazingly flawed characters!  I had my personal gripes with both of the mcs at times and their decisions; however, I understand they’re teens and they’re supposed to make plenty of mistakes!  What made me dock a star from my rating is that I wasn’t satisfied with how the conflict at the end was resolved, or rather swept under the rug. I wish if Hani gave us a little glimpse and spoke about her friendship status! 

Definitely recommend it!

[ippnoida]

Bengal literature at Delhi's CR Park

Chittaranjan Bhavan at Delhi's CR Park, the hub of the city's Bengali community, hosted the Bhavan Bookfest from 20 to 29 September 2024, just before the Durga Puja celebrations. Bengali fiction and non-fiction titles and a large variety of Bengal-themed books were featured at the fair, where small and large book publishers and bookstores from West Bengal participated.

Niyogi Books had a well-curated collection of books for readers of all ages – captivating fiction from its Olive Turtle imprint, thought-provoking translations from its Thornbird imprint, engaging non-fiction from its Paper Missile imprint along with enriching Hindi titles from its Bahuvachan imprint. The publishing house's youngest imprint Perky Parrot featured a collection of national and international children's literature.

Daksha Bharati, a children's book publisher from Kolkata, came with its collection of interactive storybooks and detailed atlas. “Children want to know about animals, science, and Indian epics such as Ramayana and Mahabharata. We have created a book on Jurassic World in Bengali so that children retain an interest in the Bengali language while learning about natural history.

“The old type of Atlas had only pictures and names of places but we have come out with a new design where we write a few paragraphs about the history and culture of every place with its map so children have a holistic understanding of geography. This is the reason why our Atlas is very popular all over India,” said Kaushik Paul from Daksha Bharati. The publisher was giving away complimentary paper hats featuring Daksha Bharati's logo and name in Bengali with every purchase.

Since CR Park mostly houses the Bengali community, leading Bengali publishers from Kolkata participated, Pritam Sengupta from Read Bengali Bookstore said, adding a lot of people visited the fair and purchased Bengali literature and some English books as well. Upcoming publishers from Bengal are publishing new content in detective fiction as well as non-fiction books, which reached a large number of Bengali readers, he said.

The IPP team picked up Contemporary Urdu Short Stories from Kolkata, translated by Afif Shams Siddiqi and edited by Fuzail Asar Siddiqi, An Anthology of the Best Ghost Stories from Bengal published by Bee Books, The Bengalis: A Portrait of a Community by Sudeep Chakravarti, Patachitra of Odisha by Anita Bose, and RK Laxman: Back with a punch by EP Unny from the book fest.

[bookyourevents]

Book Your Events—The Best Birthday, Wedding & Anniversary party decoration company in Kolkata

Kolkata is a city that is known for its rich traditions and cultural celebrations. It is the perfect place to create life’s special moments. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or anniversary, every event that is done in this city, must be celebrated in style. With the right decorations and guidance, these occasions become unforgettable experiences filled with joy and love. However, If you’re looking to make your celebration truly special, then let  Book Your Events help you.

Celebrate Life’s Every Milestones

In Kolkata, where it is believed that every milestone such as a wedding, birthday, or may it be an anniversary, is a reason to celebrate. From the laughter at a birthday party to the heartfelt vows exchanged at a wedding, all these moments are what life is all about, right? And the right decorations can really change the atmosphere and create lasting memories for you and for your guests.

Think about your venue fully decorated with beautiful flowers, twinkling lights, and so many personalized touches that are revealing your story to your guests. At Book Your Events, we know that every little detail matters in a big event like a Wedding, and we are committed to making your every expectation into reality.

Why Choose Book Your Events?

Tailored Experiences:  Every celebration of yours is unique and one of a kind, and we know that. For that reason, we the time to understand your preferences and ideas. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand affair, our team will work closely with you to design a decor plan that fits your style and budget.

Expertise in Diverse Events: From birthday parties, and weddings to anniversary celebrations with more than a decade of experience under our belt, we are well-confident in turning your event into a special one. We can create such an ambiance that showcases your love story, our team has the experience to handle it all. 

Attention to Detail: At Book Your Events, we truly believe that the real magic lies in the details. That’s why our decorators pay detailed and close attention to every aspect, making sure of each and every little thing, from centerpieces to lighting beautifully. This attention to detail makes us different from other Wedding decoration company in kolkata 

.

Creating Memorable Birthday Celebrations

Birthdays come once a year and this is a time for joy and celebration. Whether it’s a milestone birthday like the 50th or a simple gathering of friends, our team can bring your vision to life. We create a colorful, fun-filled venue with themes that reflect the personality of the birthday boy or girl. From playful decorations for children’s parties to cultured setups for adult celebrations, we make sure that every birthday is a different experience.

Elegant Weddings to Cherish Forever

A wedding is one of life’s most significant events, and we understand the importance of making it perfect. From traditional Bengali ceremonies to contemporary celebrations, our decorators have a wealth of ideas to support any theme. You can exchange vows under a stunning floral arch, surrounded by loved ones in a beautifully decorated space that caters to your love story.

Celebrating Love with Anniversaries

Anniversaries are a beautiful reminder of love and commitment. Whether you’re celebrating your first year or your golden anniversary, our team can create a romantic atmosphere that captures your journey together. Thoughtful decorations, personalized touches, and a warm ambiance will help you relive the magic of your special day.

Local Touches That Matter

Incorporating local elements into your decor can add a unique charm to your event. From traditional Bengali motifs to modern designs that resonate with Kolkata’s culture, our decorators are skilled at blending styles. This not only enhances the authenticity of your celebration but also connects your event to the rich heritage of the city.

Making Your Vision Come to Life

Book Your Events is the best anniversary decoration in kolkata, and we are really passionate about turning your ideas into reality. Our collaborative ideas and approach mean that we’ll be with you every step of the way, from the initial planning stages to the final execution. With our expertise, you can sit back, relax, and watch that your event will be seamless and stress-free.

Conclusion

With BookYourEvents by your side, your birthday, wedding, or anniversary will be nothing short of magical. We are the best party decoration company in Kolkata and that is exactly why we are committed to providing you the best decoration services.  

We will make sure that every detail of your event reflects your style and personality. Let us help you create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. So if you are thinking of your event to be a real beauty, then do not hold back yourself, contact us (the best Birthday decoration service in kolkata ) today, and let’s make your event, the best event of your life.

[guruglobalschoolindore]

What do children learn at Preschool? A peek into early education

Preschool is an exciting and important stage in a child's early years, during which they begin to explore the world beyond their family and build skills that will serve as the foundation for future learning and personal growth. During this time, children are exposed to a wide range of learning activities that address all aspects of development—social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and artistic. Let's look at what children normally learn in preschool and why these lessons are so crucial.

Self Confidence

First and foremost, enrolling your child in preschool is an important lesson in developing self-confidence. A preschool not only helps children overcome separation anxiety, but it also fosters age-appropriate independence. Children learn a variety of skills on their own, whether it's how to wash their hands before meals or how to organize their stuff effectively. These experiences, in turn, teach in them a healthy sense of self-worth and confidence.

Cognitive Development and Early Academics

Cognitive development is another key component of preschool education. Children are taught early literacy skills such as letter recognition, sound identification, and understanding the relationship between letters and words. Story time, singing, and interactive reading sessions help children build their vocabulary and understand the fundamentals of language. In addition to literacy, preschoolers begin to investigate mathematical concepts by counting, recognizing numbers, and identifying shapes and patterns. These early academic abilities are taught in a fun and engaging way, ensuring that children develop a love of learning that will continue them throughout their schooling.

Socialization Skills

One of the most important parts of preschool education is the growth of social skills. Children engage with classmates and adults outside of their family for the first time in preschool, where they learn important social behaviors. They learn to share toys, take turns, and work together in group activities. These encounters teach kids the value of empathy, respect, and friendship. Through guided play and group projects, they learn how to articulate their needs and listen to others, laying the groundwork for good communication later in life.

Kindergarten Readiness

A Best Preschool for Kids plays an important role in setting the groundwork for school readiness. The correct preschool may make a significant difference in the child's life by allowing them to spend time away from home, providing them with the attention and stimulation they require to develop into good learners, and teaching those pre-academic skills. Above all, the most important thing that the ideal preschool teaches is to start a child's interest. In basic terms, a preschool teaches children how to think rather than what they should think. This important skill helps the children as he or she enters kindergarten and beyond. The ability to question everything around them makes the child a lifelong learner.

To Sum Up

The correct preschool can make a significant impact in preparing a child for kindergarten and life in general. When we encourage young learners who like the learning process, we create students who can make the most of the information they receive. With this strategy, the child will be prepared for school, and we will most likely see favorable results as parents.

Guru Global School is the Play School in Bengali Square, Indore. Our school promotes complete growth and development of children through better education. It helps in the development of children's mind and helps them to join and be active in the society. we have a dedicated team of staff members who prioritize the well-being of students and provides a comprehensive and enriching educational experience for children.

[nappyname2024]

Beautiful Bengali Names Traditional Choices for Your Newborn

Choosing a name for your newborn is an exciting journey filled with love, dreams, and cultural significance. Bengali names, steeped in tradition and rich history, offer a beautiful array of options that resonate deeply with the values and heritage of this vibrant community. From timeless classics to modern adaptations, these names carry meanings that can inspire hope and joy for generations to come. As we delve into the world of trending baby names in Bengali culture, you’ll discover unique choices for both boys and girls that reflect not only individuality but also connect families to their roots. Whether you’re looking for something popular or searching for a rare gem, let’s explore some enchanting Bengali names together!

Popular Bengali names for boys and their meanings

Bengali culture is rich in tradition, and names for boys often reflect this heritage. Among the most popular names is “Aarav,” which means peaceful and calm. telugu baby names  It embodies tranquility, making it a perfect choice for parents seeking serenity.

Another beloved name is “Rohit.” This vibrant name translates to red or sun, symbolizing vitality and energy. It’s an excellent option for lively personalities.

“Dev” stands out as well; meaning god or divine being, it’s a strong name that carries spiritual top baby girl names in marathi,  significance.

For something more unique yet charming, consider “Siddharth.” Meaning one who has attained his goals, it inspires aspirations from an early age.

There’s “Tanay,” which signifies son. A simple yet profound choice that resonates with familial love and connection. Each of these names not only sounds beautiful but also tells a story steeped in cultural richness and meaning.

Unique Bengali names for girls and their meanings

Bengali culture brims with creativity, especially when it comes to naming girls. Popular Telugu Baby names,  Unique names not only reflect heritage but also carry beautiful meanings.

Take “Anaya,” which signifies caring and compassionate. It’s a name that evokes warmth and love. Another gem is “Tithi,” meaning moonlight, perfect for a child who brings brightness into your life.

“Riya” translates to singer or graceful, suggesting elegance wrapped in harmony. Similarly, “Shanvi” means goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing wealth and prosperity—a wish every parent hopes for their daughter.

Names like these celebrate individuality while honoring traditions. Each choice tells a story and carries hope for the future of your little one. Embrace these unique Trending Baby Names in Bengali,  as you embark on the joyous journey of parenthood!

Modern twists on traditional Bengali names

Modern parents are increasingly blending tradition with contemporary flair when it comes to naming their children. Trending Baby Names bengali , rich in history and culture, are no exception.

Take the classic name “Sourav,” which means fragrance. A modern twist could be “Soura,” a playful spin that retains its essence while feeling fresh.

Similarly, “Ananya,” meaning unique or unmatched, can evolve into “Anya.” This shorter variant gives it a chic vibe without losing its original charm.

For girls, “Ritika” transforms beautifully into “Riti.”popular baby names in telugu,  It’s sleek and stylish yet still resonates with cultural roots.

These adaptations not only reflect current baby name trends but also allow parents to honor family heritage while embracing new ideas. By infusing traditional names with modern elements, families create a beautiful blend of old and new for future generations.

Tips for choosing the perfect name for your newborn

Choosing a name for your newborn can feel overwhelming. Bengali Names for Boys, Start by considering the cultural significance behind different names. This adds depth and richness to your choice.

Think about how the name sounds when paired with your last name. Say it out loud, and consider its flow. A harmonious combination creates a pleasing sound.

Don’t forget to explore meanings. Bengali boy Names, Names often carry beautiful stories or sentiments that reflect hopes for the child’s future.

Consider any personal connections you might have to certain names—family traditions or beloved figures in your life can guide you toward something truly special.

Keep trends in mind but stay true to what resonates with you personally. The perfect name should make both you and your child smile now and in years to come.

Exploring the origins of Bengali names

Bengali names are steeped in history and culture. Their roots can be traced back to ancient languages like Sanskrit, Persian, and even Arabic. This rich blend reflects the region’s diverse influences over centuries.

Each name carries a unique story or meaning, often linked to nature, virtues, or significant events. For instance, many Bengali BabyGirl Names ,  embody qualities such as strength or wisdom—attributes that parents hope their children will inherit.

The tradition of naming also varies among communities within Bengal. Some families may choose names from religious texts while others might draw inspiration from literature and folklore.

Moreover, Bengali Names for girl,  conventions have evolved with time. While traditional choices remain popular today, modern interpretations bring fresh perspectives on classic names. This dynamic interplay between the old and new continues to shape what is considered trendy in baby naming circles across India today.

Embracing the beauty and diversity of Bengali names

Bengali names are a beautiful tapestry woven with history, culture, and tradition. Each name carries a story—a reflection of the rich heritage that shapes Bengali identity.

The diversity in these names is truly remarkable. From Sanskrit roots to influences from Persian and Arabic, every name embodies unique nuances that celebrate both individuality and community.

Parents often choose names based on their meanings, hoping to bestow qualities they admire onto traditional Bengali baby names,  their children. Names like “Aarav” signify peace while “Tumpa” evokes joy—each choice is intentional.

Moreover, modern twists add freshness to traditional options. Hyphenated combinations or variations create new favorites without losing cultural essence.

This blend of old and new allows families to honor traditions while embracing change, making Bengali Baby Girl Names with Meaning,  not just identifiers but legacies passed down through generations.

The Significance of Traditional Bengali Names

Traditional Bengali names carry deep cultural significance. They often reflect the rich history and vibrant heritage of Bengal. Each name is a story, steeped in tradition and meaning.

Names are more than mere labels; they symbolize identity. In modern boy and girl name in Bengali  culture, it’s common for names to be inspired by nature, literature, or spirituality. These elements showcase the beauty of life and emotions.

Moreover, traditional names connect generations. They honor ancestors while instilling values in the younger generation. This practice fosters a sense of belonging and continuity within families.

Choosing a traditional Popular Telugu Baby names , can also invoke powerful aspirations. Many parents select names with meanings that inspire strength or wisdom, hoping their child embodies these virtues as they grow up.

These choices enrich not just personal identity but also cultural pride in an increasingly globalized world.

Popular Bengali Names for Baby Boys

Bengali culture is rich with vibrant traditions, and names for baby boys reflect this heritage beautifully. One popular choice is “Aarav,” meaning peaceful and calm. Modern boy and girl name in Telugu  It carries a sense of tranquility that many parents seek.

Another name, “Rudra,” symbolizes strength and ferocity. With roots in mythology, it evokes images of bravery and valor.

“Dev” is another cherished selection, denoting divinity or god-like qualities. This name resonates with families looking to instill spiritual significance from the start.

For those seeking something a bit more contemporary yet deeply rooted in tradition, “Reyansh” stands out as a modern favorite while still honoring Popular Telugu Baby Names , customs.

These names not only carry meaningful connotations but also connect newborns to their cultural legacy. Each time you call these names, they echo stories of history and pride.

Popular Bengali Names for Baby Girls

Choosing a name for your baby girl can be an exciting journey, especially with the rich tapestry of Telugu Baby Girl Names culture. Names often carry deep meanings and beautiful sounds that resonate through generations.

Some popular choices include “Aditi,” symbolizing boundlessness and freedom. It’s a name that embodies strength and grace, perfect for a spirited little one.

Another favorite is “Diya,” which means light or lamp. This name reflects warmth and brightness in every aspect of life.

“Ananya” stands out as well, meaning unique or unparalleled. It’s ideal for parents looking to celebrate their daughter’s individuality from day one.

Then there’s “Madhuri,” translating to sweetness. A lovely reminder of the joy children bring into our lives.

These names not only sound melodious but also hold stories waiting to unfold as your daughter grows. Each choice carries cultural significance while offering something truly personal.

Conclusion

Choosing a name for your newborn is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make as a parent. Bengali names, steeped in culture and meaning, offer an array of choices that resonate with tradition while also embracing modern trends. From unique Bengali names for girls to strong boys’ names, there’s something for everyone.

As you explore these beautiful options, consider how each name reflects not only personal significance but also connects to cultural roots. Whether leaning toward traditional or contemporary styles, the perfect name will carry forward generations of heritage.

With so many trending baby names emerging every year, staying informed can help you find that special gem. The beauty and diversity of Bengali names are waiting to be discovered—embrace them as part of your family’s story!

[therewasabrowncrow]

লক্ষ্মী মেয়ে (Good Girl)

Character inspired by Reclaim the Night Protests and it's origin in books like Grihalakshmi and Brata Kathas:

Griha Laskhmi:

In 1884 a twenty-two year old Indian man wrote the first of what would become two editions of a book on women's conduct. He published Griha Lakshmi ("'The virtuous Housewife" or literally "'The Lakshmi of the House")

Griha Lakshmi was one of almost twenty "advice for women" books written in Bengali during the 1880s and 1890s. 'The authors of most of these texts were men; their purpose in writing was the redefinition of women's roles and the adaptation of these roles to the changed circumstances of life in British-ruled nineteenth century Bengal.

In late 19th century Bengal, urbanisation and capitaist colonialism shaped the Bhadramahila who is "envisioned to embody the virtues of both the ideal Hindu woman and the Victorian image of the perfect lady who could contribute to their husbands' career and educate their children in enlightened ways. She was still restricted to the andarmahal or antahpur- the private sphere- where she had to negotiate with other stakeholders- female members of the family and domestic workers. The Victorian ideal of the "companionate" marriage, in which the wife served as friend and advisor to her husband, was one often spoken of by reform-minded Bengali men.

Home study:

There was general consensus that a proper education would provide the foundation for the future happiness of a married couple and the family- Husbands, writes Dhirendranath Pal, should begin to educate their wives from the first day of marriage. While others criticized the impracticality of home study; girls worked hard the whole day and were too exhausted to absorb anything at night.

Yet one twentieth century study of Bengali women shows how attractive the intimacy and intensity of these imagined late-night conversations might be to unmarried or young just-married Bengali girls. As one women relates:

I fell in love with [my husband] so intensely from the very night of our wedding that my whole day was spent dreaming about meeting him at night. If he ever came home early or ran into me alone on the veranda, I felt as though I were going through an electric shock •••• If he even said a word to me alone, I was so elated. I always expected him to talk to me when I came to bed at night. I hoped he would take a personal interest in me, that he would ask how my days went, whether I needed anything. I also missed my father who discussed his office problems with me. I wondered why my husband had nothing to talk about. I often asked him questions about his work, his colleagues, his friends. I tried to imagine his life outside home

Ultimately, women's literacy should fulfill the following:

They should be able to reproduce their own letters to husbands when he is away at college or work.

They should be able to keep household accounts and release the tired husband from these tasks

They should be educate for the joy of education

Pass knowledge to their children

"Soroj, don't you see how much fault there is in not learning writing am reading? I will write letters to you, but you can't read. Certain others will read the letters and for this reason I will not be able to write all the thoughts in my mind". (Writing/Reading, Girijaprasann Raychaudhuri, 1887)

Bratakathas:

A major traditional source from which girls could learn how to behave as young wives was the didactic stories of the Bratakathas. The bratas were rituals or verses performed in worship of a goddess and often accompanied by the telling of a story- this is usually done by women with other female members in the andarmahal.

One of the goddesses is Lakshmi associated with wealth and prosperity in Bengal that even today, a good girl is called a "lokkhi meye"-literally, "a girl like Lakshmi."

Daily, get up very early and sweep up whatever is scattered about. Never sleep during the day. In the evening time, put incense and sprinkle Ganges water in the rooms and light the lamps. Never speak roughly or loudly with a metallic sounding voice and never cause a clatter while moving about. If you move, move as if there is no sound of your feet. Always silently invoke Lokkhi and Narayan in your mind, then the mercy of Ma Lokkhi will come.

It has often been said that the conservatism of Hindu families comes from the women, and nineteenth century reformers often identified older women in families as their opponents in the effort to alter women's conditions. But one of the curiosities of the Griha Lakshmi text is the way in which, in all but the chapter on literacy, husband and wife switch roles-she arguing for romantic love between husband and wife and he, as we have seen, for more orthodox relations.

The women outside these caste Hindu households also live in a male dominated society, but their economic self-reliance, their independent life style and non-conformity to the morals of bhadralok society allowed them some freedom. The night is therefore relegated to service workers- women of the market place, and wives of the andarmahal to be taught by their husbands. Hindu society needs to reckon with the working girl and this conflict is often violent.

resource:

Face to Face: Roles for Bengali Women in Love and Family (A study based on Griha Lakshmi-a 19th Century Bengali "advice for women" text) by Judith Walsh, 1990 Gendered Spaces: A Study of the Narratives in the Lakshini Puja- Anindita Chatterjee, 2006

[jujustation]

Bengali Comedy and Entertainment Audio Story । Kagoj to Poro Na । Ashapurna Debi

Welcome to our channel where you get to listen a bunch of beautiful audio adaptation of old and precious Bengali entertainment natok and dramas by well popular writers. This is an amazing comic relief laughing story by famous children story writer Lila Majumdar. Here the writer represents the daily life of middle-class people in a fun way. This adaptation of audio story for kids is a such beautiful way to create connection with today's generation and old classics, so that they don't miss the essence of good stories. We present Bengali audio web series for our family, and we hope positive response from our listeners.

Subscribe for more: https://youtube.com/@jujustation2024?si=j7zKyNtO_D4GRJ6X