If you are an Indian, it is quite unlikely that you would not have heard about Vande Mataram, but it is quite likely that you wouldn’t know who gave that beautiful melody to the nation – Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the father of Bengali literature. The legendary man is also known for his spectacular work as a poet, writer, and journalist.
Ever since it was composed and made in 1937, it has been India’s national song since. Lyricist Bankim Chandra penned down the mindful and soulful words in 1882 whilst the nationalism movement had just started. With his words, he invoked a feeling of unsurpassable devotion to the motherland.
Bankim Chand Chatterjee was considered as a highly revered nationalist who was also educated well. He was also among the first ones to graduate from the University of Calcutta. His father was a civil servant working for the British East India Company. He had two brothers. Not surprisingly, his brother Sanjeebchandra was also a writer. He found immense interest and passion in writing. However, what is surprising is the tender age at which Bankim got married. Yes, he had got married at a tender age of 11 years. Bankim married a 5-year old girl.
However, when Bankim turned 22 years old, his wife died which led to his second marriage with Rajlakshmi Devi. He had three daughters from his second marriage. Much understandable, Bankim was surrounded by women in his family and hence his works mostly included topics on strong women. Bankim’s maiden Bengali novel is Durgeshnandini, which was published in 1865; his first novel was in English, called Rajmohan’s Wife.
Well, brave heroes like Bankim Chandra Chatterjee influenced the sentiments of the public and accentuated their dedication towards saving their motherland. Today, as we celebrate the 180th birth anniversary of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, we bow down to the man who made a difference with his words and actions as well.
