Cultural Heritage and Educational Legacy of Howrah District

Date: 19th January, 2025

Index

• Bibliography
• Ancient and Vedic Periods: Educational and Cultural Foundation
• Medieval Period: The Mughal and Sultanate Rule
• Post-Independence Era: Modern Educational and Cultural Developments
• Achal Bhattacharya

Cultural Heritage

The Howrah district (Ancient Bhurshut) of West Bengal, located on the western bank of the Hooghly River, has a deep-rooted cultural and educational heritage shaped by its unique historical, geographical, and socio-cultural context. Tracing this legacy from ancient times to the present reveals a vibrant tapestry of influences and contributions to India’s intellectual and cultural landscape. In this essay, we have added a special note on Achal Bhattacharya for his contribution to recording the history of Howrah District.

1. Ancient and Vedic Periods: Educational and Cultural Foundation

Vedic Influence: The region, like much of Bengal, was influenced by the intellectual ethos of the Vedic period (1500–500 BCE). The Vedas and Upanishads emphasized oral traditions of learning, with rishis and sages teaching students in gurukuls. Bengal, referred to as Gauda or Vanga (Banga in the period of the Mahabharata) in ancient texts, was not only known for its fertile lands but also as a center of philosophical and intellectual debates.

In Howrah (ভুরশুট) and surrounding areas, archaeological evidence suggests an early presence of Vedic practices, as reflected in the widespread cultivation of agrarian rituals and yajnas. This legacy finds echoes in the continued use of Sanskrit chants and rituals in temples such as the Ramakrishna Memorial Temple in Belur Math.

Vedic Scholars and Oral Traditions: Bengal, including Howrah, was influenced by the flourishing tradition of Vedic learning. The presence of agrarian and riverine societies in the region contributed to the development of rituals and yajnas, integral to Vedic practices. The early focus on oral learning through shruti (what is heard) and smriti (what is remembered) would later shape the intellectual pursuits of the region. Knanyakubja Brahmins (readers of the Rigveda) came and settled as early as 300 CE in the Howrah-Govindapur area.

Ties to Tirthankar Jainism and Buddhism: During the later Vedic period, Bengal became a cradle for new philosophical movements, including Buddhism and Jainism. The Howrah region, being close to Pataliputra (modern-day Bihar), was part of this cultural confluence. Historical accounts suggest the movement of monks and scholars along the Ganges, fostering educational exchanges. Khadir Puri (Present Khidir Pur) was a Buddha Bihar existed upto 1500 CE.

Again, the Jain Tirthankar Mahavira and Buddhist monks traveled extensively in this region. The Buddhist emphasis on educational institutions like monasteries (viharas) would later influence Howrah’s intellectual environment.

2. Mauryan and Gupta Periods: Expansion of Education

Mauryan Influence (322–185 BCE): Under the Mauryan Empire, Bengal became part of a larger political and cultural framework. Kautilya’s Arthashastra mentions the economic richness of regions like Tamralipta (modern Tamluk), close to Howrah. This prosperity supported cultural exchanges, the establishment of trade routes, and the patronage of learning centers.

Gupta Period (4th–6th Century CE): Often regarded as a golden age for Indian culture, the Gupta Empire had a significant influence on Bengal. In Howrah, the region’s close ties to the Ganges ensured a flow of ideas and education. Temples and monasteries flourished as centers of knowledge. Sculptural motifs found in the temples of the region often reflect the Gupta-era artistic traditions, emphasizing religion, cosmology, and philosophy.

3. Early Medieval Period: Pala and Sena Dynasties

The Pala dynasty (8th–12th centuries CE), which ruled Bengal, significantly advanced education and culture. The Palas were patrons of Mahayana Buddhism, and their rule saw the establishment of renowned universities like Nalanda and Vikramashila. Although Howrah itself did not host such institutions, its strategic location near the Hooghly River facilitated the spread of knowledge from these centers.

Art and Architecture: Pala-era terracotta artifacts and temple sculptures found in Howrah and nearby districts reflect the region’s connection to broader intellectual trends. These artifacts also highlight the fusion of Buddhist, Hindu, and folk traditions.

Buddhist Scholarship under the Palas: The Palas were great patrons of Mahayana Buddhism and supported institutions like Nalanda and Vikramashila, where scholars such as Atisha Dipankara (born in nearby Bikrampur, now in Bangladesh) emerged. Howrah’s location along riverine trade routes suggests that Buddhist monks and scholars would have passed through the region, disseminating their knowledge and ideas.

Sena Dynasty: The transition from the Palas to the Senas (12th century CE) marked the resurgence of Hinduism, particularly Vaishnavism. The Senas contributed to Bengali script development, laying the groundwork for vernacular education. Sanskrit remained the dominant medium of instruction, but the seeds of regional linguistic identity were sown.

Influence of Sanskrit and Early Bengali Literature: The Sena dynasty, which succeeded the Palas, emphasized the use of Sanskrit while also supporting the early development of the Bengali script. Scholars like Jayadeva, the famed author of Gita Govinda, who lived during the Sena period, influenced the broader region, including Howrah.

4. Medieval Period: The Mughal and Sultanate Influence

During the medieval period, Bengal came under the rule of the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughals. Howrah, being close to the Mughal trading hub of Hooghly, became a melting pot of cultures.

Madrassas and Islamic Education: The establishment of madrassas and maktabs introduced Arabic and Persian education to the region. These institutions were vital in teaching theology, philosophy, and mathematics. The syncretism between Islamic and local Bengali traditions influenced Howrah’s cultural milieu.

Baul and Bhakti Movements: The Bhakti movement during this period found fertile ground in Bengal, including Howrah. Figures like Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486–1534) revitalized Vaishnavism through devotional songs and poetry. The oral tradition of Baul songs, rooted in spiritual teachings, became a hallmark of the region’s cultural identity.

5. Colonial Period: Emergence of Modern Education

Howrah’s transformation into an industrial and urban hub during British rule also revolutionized its educational landscape. The British emphasis on Western-style education led to the establishment of schools and colleges.

Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar (1820–1891): Vidyasagar, one of the greatest reformers of Bengal, spent significant time in and around Howrah. Known for his efforts to simplify Bengali prose and for advocating widow remarriage, Vidyasagar’s contributions to education and literature had a profound impact on the intellectual life of Bengal.

Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda: The Ramakrishna Math and Mission, established in Belur (Howrah) by Swami Vivekananda in 1897, became a beacon of education and spirituality. The mission’s emphasis on combining traditional Indian values with modern scientific knowledge continues to shape Howrah’s educational ethos.

Contribution to Bengali Renaissance: During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Bengal was the epicenter of the Bengali Renaissance, a socio-cultural and intellectual awakening. Howrah, with its proximity to Kolkata, benefited from the movement’s ideas. Prominent figures like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar and Rabindranath Tagore influenced the region’s educational and cultural reforms.

Schools and Colleges: The establishment of institutions like Howrah Zilla School (1856) and Shibpur Engineering College (now IIEST Shibpur, established in 1856) reflected the region’s growing emphasis on formal education.

6. Post-Independence Era: Modern Educational and Cultural Developments

After India’s independence in 1947, Howrah continued to develop as an industrial and cultural hub. Educational institutions expanded, catering to a diverse population.

Howrah Zilla School and Shibpur Engineering College (IIEST): Institutions like Howrah Zilla School (founded in 1845) and Shibpur Engineering College (now IIEST Shibpur, established in 1856) became centers of modern education. The engineering college, one of the oldest in India, produced several notable engineers and scholars who contributed to the district’s intellectual reputation.

The Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST), Shibpur, has become one of India’s premier engineering institutions. Its origins date back to the 19th century, highlighting Howrah’s long-standing emphasis on technical education.

Cultural Festivals and Traditions: Howrah is renowned for its vibrant Durga Puja celebrations, deeply rooted in Bengal’s cultural fabric. Additionally, the Panchanantala Kali Puja and Jagannath Rath Yatra reflect the district’s spiritual heritage. Howrah became known for its contribution to Bengali theatre, particularly in the jatra tradition, a form of folk theatre that blends music, drama, and storytelling. Intellectual debates and literary gatherings also became common in the urban parts of the district.

Local Art and Craft: Howrah’s cultural legacy includes its famous terracotta art, clay idol-making, and weaving traditions, which reflect the district’s connection to ancient artisanal practices.

Notable Modern Scholars and Writers: Modern Bengali authors and intellectuals such as Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay, Shibram Chakraborty, and Saradindu Bandopadhyay (creator of the iconic detective Byomkesh Bakshi) found inspiration in the rich cultural milieu of Bengal, including Howrah. Though not all lived in Howrah, their works resonated deeply with its people. We should not forget that Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay (27 June 1838 – 8 April 1894) used to sit as a deputy collector in present day How Court Campus.

A Tapestry of Heritage

The educational and cultural heritage of Howrah is a testament to its rich and layered history (Read: তন্ময় ভট্টাচার্য, ভূরিশ্রেষ্টির (ভুরশুট ) বাংলাভাষা ৭০০ খ্রিস্টাব্দ). From the Vedic traditions of oral learning to the establishment of modern institutions, the district has been a crucible of intellectual and cultural growth. Its geographical location near the Ganges and Kolkata has allowed Howrah to absorb and disseminate diverse influences, creating a vibrant and enduring legacy. Howrah District Library and Shibapur Public Library continue to define the educational identity of Howrah today.

Bibliography

1. Ancient and Vedic Times: Roots of Intellectual Tradition

References:

1. Basham, A. L.
   The Wonder That Was India
   Publication Date: 1954
   Reason to Read: This book provides a comprehensive overview of Indian civilization during ancient and Vedic times, including the cultural and philosophical contributions of Bengal. It helps contextualize Howrah’s intellectual roots within the broader Vedic tradition.
2. Majumdar, R. C.
   The History of Bengal (Vol. 1)
   Publication Date: 1943
   Reason to Read: Majumdar’s work is indispensable for understanding Bengal’s role during ancient and early medieval times, including the influence of Vedic traditions and the rise of Buddhism and Jainism.

2. Early Medieval Period: The Pala-Sena Legacy

References:

1. Sastri, H. C. Raychaudhuri
   Political History of Ancient India
   Publication Date: 1923 (Revised Edition: 1953)
   Reason to Read: This classic work examines the political history of Bengal under the Palas and Senas, highlighting their patronage of education and culture. It offers insights into the intellectual milieu that indirectly influenced Howrah.
2. Bagchi, Kalidas
   The Pala Empire of Bengal and Bihar
   Publication Date: 1981
   Reason to Read: Bagchi’s research focuses on the contributions of the Pala Empire to art, culture, and education, helping to contextualize the intellectual advancements of the region.

3. Medieval Period: Islamic Influence and Syncretism

References:

1. Eaton, Richard M.
   The Rise of Islam and the Bengal Frontier, 1204–1760
   Publication Date: 1993
   Reason to Read: Eaton provides a detailed account of how Islamic culture and education influenced Bengal, including areas like Howrah, during the medieval period. It discusses the synthesis of Islamic and Bengali traditions.
2. Ahmed, Wakil
   Bengali Muslim Thought and Literature (1204–1947)
   Publication Date: 1978
   Reason to Read: This book explores the intellectual contributions of Bengali Muslims during the medieval and colonial periods, with insights into madrassas and literary traditions.

4. Colonial Period: The Bengali Renaissance and Howrah’s Intellectual Awakening

References:

1. Sengupta, Nitish
   Land of Two Rivers: A History of Bengal from the Mahabharata to Mujib
   Publication Date: 2011
   Reason to Read:
   This book provides a sweeping history of Bengal, with a focus on the Bengal Renaissance and its impact on districts like Howrah. It is a valuable resource for understanding the rise of reformers and intellectuals.
2. Chakrabarty, Dipesh
   Rethinking Working-Class History: Bengal, 1890–1940
   Publication Date: 1989
   Reason to Read: Chakrabarty’s work sheds light on the industrialization of Howrah and its socio-cultural implications during the colonial period.
3. Murshid, Ghulam
   The Bengali Renaissance: Identity and Creativity from Tagore to Satyajit Ray
   Publication Date: 2011
   Reason to Read: This book captures the spirit of the Bengal Renaissance, emphasizing the contributions of reformers like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar and institutions in the Howrah region.

5. Modern Period: Post-Independence Intellectual Developments

References:

1. Dasgupta, Atis
   The Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Movement: Impact on Indian Society
   Publication Date: 1993
   Reason to Read: Dasgupta’s analysis of the Ramakrishna Mission at Belur Math offers valuable insights into its role in fostering intellectual and spiritual growth in Howrah.
2. Roy, Niharranjan
   Bengal: The Cultural Heritage
   Publication Date: 1978
   Reason to Read: This work explores Bengal’s post-independence cultural and educational evolution, touching on Howrah’s continued relevance.
3. Chatterjee, Partha
   The Nation and Its Fragments: Colonial and Postcolonial Histories
   Publication Date: 1993
   Reason to Read: Chatterjee’s examination of the cultural and intellectual developments in Bengal during and after colonial rule provides a nuanced understanding of Howrah’s place in the modern intellectual landscape.

Additional References for All Sections

1. Sanyal, Hitesranjan
   Social Mobility in Bengal
   Publication Date: 1981
   Reason to Read: This book provides a sociological perspective on Bengal’s intellectual and cultural evolution, with relevance to Howrah’s demographic and cultural diversity.
2. Chaudhuri, Sukanta
   Calcutta: The Living City (Vol. I & II)
   Publication Date: 1990
   Reason to Read: These volumes explore the socio-cultural dynamics of Kolkata and its neighboring districts like Howrah, offering a comprehensive picture of the region’s intellectual life.

Howrah-Specific Historical and Cultural Works

1. Mukherjee, A. B.
   Howrah Itihas O Samaj (History and Society of Howrah, in Bengali)
   Publication Date: 1992
   Reason to Read: This book focuses on the historical development of Howrah, including its socio-cultural evolution, industrial growth, and contributions to education and literature. It’s a key resource for anyone looking to understand Howrah’s distinct identity within Bengal.
2. Banerjee, N. R.
   History of Howrah: From Earliest Times to the Present
   Publication Date: 1985
   Reason to Read: A comprehensive history of Howrah, covering ancient to modern times. This book offers detailed insights into the district’s intellectual and cultural contributions, including its connection to Bengal’s broader historical developments.
3. Sengupta, D.
   Howrah: A Socio-Economic Survey
   Publication Date: 1975
   Reason to Read: This work focuses on Howrah’s social and economic transformation, highlighting its contributions to education, literature, and intellectual discourse during the colonial and post-independence periods.

Colonial and Renaissance Period

4. Gupta, Amitava
   Heritage of Howrah
   Publication Date: 2003
   Reason to Read: This book explores Howrah’s architectural, industrial, and cultural heritage, focusing on its contributions to the Bengal Renaissance and the intellectual growth of the region. It also sheds light on key institutions like Shibpur Engineering College.
5. Ghosh, Binoy
   Bangalir Itihas: Sadhinata Samay Theke Adhunikata (History of the Bengalis: From Independence to Modernity, in Bengali)
   Publication Date: 1979
   Reason to Read: Ghosh discusses Howrah’s role in the Bengal Renaissance, particularly its connections to the reformist movements led by figures like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar and its industrial expansion that fostered educational growth.

Educational Institutions in Howrah

6. IIEST Shibpur (Editor)
   Celebrating 150 Years: A History of IIEST Shibpur
   Publication Date: 2006
   Reason to Read: This publication chronicles the history of the Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (formerly Bengal Engineering College), highlighting its contributions to technical education and the intellectual legacy of Howrah.
7. Howrah Zilla School Alumni Association
   Memories of Howrah Zilla School: 150th Anniversary Edition
   Publication Date: 1995
   Reason to Read: This publication celebrates the rich history of Howrah Zilla School, one of the oldest educational institutions in the district, and its impact on the intellectual life of Bengal.

Ramakrishna Mission and Howrah’s Spiritual-Intellectual Legacy

8. Ramakrishna Mission (Editor)
   Belur Math: A Center of Spiritual and Intellectual Enlightenment
   Publication Date: 2001
   Reason to Read: This book details the establishment and development of the Ramakrishna Mission at Belur Math in Howrah. It explores the institution’s contribution to education, philosophy, and intellectual discourse in Howrah and beyond.
9. Swami Vivekananda
   Lectures from Colombo to Almora
   Publication Date: 1897
   Reason to Read: Though not specific to Howrah, Vivekananda’s ideas resonated deeply in the district, especially through the work of Belur Math. This collection of lectures is essential to understand the philosophical impact of the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda movement.

Modern Studies on Howrah’s Cultural Legacy

10. Chatterjee, Sekhar
    Howrah: The Forgotten City
    Publication Date: 2010
    Reason to Read: This book delves into the cultural and historical aspects of Howrah, emphasizing its rich yet often overlooked contributions to Bengal’s intellectual and industrial growth.
11. Dutta, Shibaji
    Jatra Pala: The Folk Theatre Tradition of Howrah
    Publication Date: 2005
    Reason to Read: This work focuses on the jatra tradition, a form of folk theatre deeply rooted in Howrah’s cultural landscape. It discusses the intellectual and artistic expressions that have shaped local culture.

General Histories with Howrah-Specific References

12. Bhattacharya, Sukumar
    Hooghly and Beyond: The History of Bengal’s Riverine Districts
    Publication Date: 1988
    Reason to Read: While focusing on Bengal’s riverine districts, this book provides valuable insights into Howrah’s historical role as a trade and cultural hub, fostering intellectual exchanges.
13. Chakraborty, Ajay
    Industrial Bengal: The Legacy of Howrah and Hooghly
    Publication Date: 1990
    Reason to Read: This book explores the industrial and economic history of Howrah, linking it to the educational and intellectual advancements of the district.

Achal Bhattacharya

Special Note: Achal Bhattacharya, a resident of Howrah district, is a distinguished historian renowned for his seminal work, Howrah Jelar Itihas (History of Howrah District), which offers an exhaustive exploration of Howrah’s history, culture, and socio-economic development. Published in two volumes, the first volume appeared in 1980, followed by the second volume in 1982. Howrah Jelar Itihas is esteemed for its meticulous research and comprehensive coverage of the district’s evolution. Bhattacharya delves into various aspects, including the region’s geography, economic progress, educational advancements, and linguistic and literary developments. His work is particularly valuable for its detailed examination of local history, providing insights that are often absent in broader historical narratives.

While collecting material for writing his History of Howrah District, Achal Bhattacharya acknowledged the works of the following people:

“I had to seek assistance from so many individuals and organizations to gather information that it is impossible to express gratitude to everyone within the limited scope of this text. To those whose names are not mentioned, I sincerely ask for forgiveness. With humility, I mention the names of only a few individuals who have been instrumental in this effort. They are:

• Avash Majumdar, editor of Howrah Kahini and Sahityabani
• Probal Ray, Rautara
• Sri Krishna Chaitanya Thakur, Dharsha
• Panchugopal Ray, Raspur
• Ashraf Ali Mallik, Shakrail
• Mukul Ghoshal, Mugkalyan
• Bhubaneshwar Bandyopadhyay, Balu Hati
• Salil Basu, Khariap
• A. V. Gambet, former Principal of St. Thomas Church School
• Sthanil Das, Bangiya Sahitya Parishad
• Ratan Das, Calcutta University Library
• Shailendra Nath Mukherjee, Nijbalia
• Sudarshan Das and Kumar Chattopadhyay, Panchla
• Ajay Kumar Mitra, Public Relations Officer, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan
• Abhoy Bhattacharya, Sarada, Amta
• Sanat Kumar Basu and Bhavataran Bez, Uttar Gobindapur, Jagatballavpur
• Ajit Das, Salkia
• Niren Sen, Belur
• Bibhuti Bhushan Mukhopadhyay, Santragachhi
• Timathiyam Hembam, Professor (OT), Bishop’s College, Kolkata
• Sita Mohan Bandyopadhyay, Bali
• Basudev Moshal, Sarenga
• Dr. Chandan Ray Choudhury, Shibpur
• Sri Nishikanta Ranjan Ray, Curator, Victoria Memorial
• Ganesh Lalwani, Baranibash Mohalla, Kolkata

ভারতীয় যুক্তরাষ্ট্রের অন্তর্গত পশ্চিমবঙ্গ রাজ্যের যোলটি জেলার মধো একমাত্র কলকাতা বাদে আর সকলের চেয়ে আয়তনে ছোট হলেও হাওড়ার ইতিহাস কিন্তু ছোট নয়।

According to Epigraphia Indica, during the third decade of the 7th century CE, Maharaja Shashanka ruled over a vast territory extending from Burdwan (Bardhaman) in the north to Ganjam in the south. Therefore, it is beyond doubt that Howrah, along with the surrounding regions, was a part of Maharaja Shashanka’s empire. Some epigraphical evidence suggests that during Shashanka’s reign, Bengal was divided into six administrative divisions, one of which was known as Karnasuvarna.

This division included the northern and central parts of the present-day Hooghly, Howrah, Bardhaman, and Murshidabad districts. Karnasuvarna, believed to be Shashanka’s capital, was a prominent political and administrative center during his rule.

After Shashanka’s death, there is little recorded history about the governance of this region for some time. However, it is evident that the overlords of Rarh (the western region of Bengal) continued to hold dominion over the Howrah area during the subsequent period. This historical continuity underscores the significance of Howrah as a part of Bengal’s political and administrative landscape. (Achal Bhattacharya)

In the 11th century, the Chola king Rajendra Chola invaded the Vanga region and annexed a significant part of present-day Midnapore and Howrah districts. Later, in the 12th century, the first ruler of the Ganga dynasty of Odisha, Chora-Ganga Deva, expanded his territories by advancing into Upper Mandar’s region, reaching as far as Mandaran in the Arambagh subdivision of the Hooghly district. It can be reasonably assumed that during his victorious campaigns, he passed through the present-day Uluberia subdivision of Howrah, which likely became part of his dominion.

Historical records preserved in the Jagannath Temple at Puri, particularly ancient copper plate inscriptions, reveal that the Uluberia subdivision of the Howrah district once fell under the rule of Ananga Bhima Deva, a king of the Ganga dynasty. Meanwhile, the Howrah Sadar subdivision remained under the control of the regional overlords of Rarh. By the mid-16th century, Mukunda Deva Harichandan, the last powerful Hindu ruler of Odisha, launched campaigns in the southwestern part of the Howrah district and advanced as far as Tribeni in Hooghly. However, in 1568 CE, the Pathan Sultan of Bengal, Suleiman Karrani, sent his general to drive Mukunda Deva out, establishing dominance over areas including Odisha and its borders.

The exact timeline for the complete integration of the Howrah district into Muslim rule remains unclear. However, it is evident that during the establishment of Muslim settlements in Tribeni and Satgaon in the Hooghly district, the Barishreshtha kingdom near these areas in Howrah retained its independence.

During the reign of Alauddin Husain Shah (1493–1519), Sultan of Gaur-Bangla, Odisha was under the rule of Prataprudra Deva. This was the period when Chaitanya Mahaprabhu undertook his journey to Puri. Some glimpses of Howrah’s condition during this time can be found in Sri Chaitanya Charitamrita by Krishnadas Kaviraj. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu traveled from Odisha to Bengal, crossing the Rupnarayan River, which provides insight into the socio-political and cultural state of Howrah during the early 16th century.

The accounts suggest that Howrah played a significant role as a transitional territory, connecting the western regions of Odisha with the eastern expanses of Bengal. This strategic importance shaped its historical trajectory, as it transitioned through Chola, Ganga, Pathan, and later Mughal influences. (Howrah Jelar Itihas Page 19-20)

The term Betor today refers to a locality in Bakshara, near the southern part of Sanat Para in Shibpur, close to Shalimar at the intersection of Grand Trunk Road and Andul Road. The Betaitchandi temple is located in this area, where, as legend has it, Chandra Sadagar, a prominent merchant of Bengali folklore, worshipped the goddess Betaitchandi during one of his trade voyages. However, these remnants give no clear indication of Betor’s prominence as a bustling port in the 16th century.

In an article published in the Sahitya Parishad Patrika in 1341 Bangabda (1934 CE), Kalidas Dutta references historical evidence that sheds light on the region’s past. He mentions the discovery of a copperplate inscription at Govindapur, issued by King Lakshman Sen of Bengal. This inscription records the donation of a village named Viddar Shasan under the Betor Chaturak division of Bardhaman province to a Brahmin named Basudev Sharma. The donated land is described with its boundaries as follows:

• South: Lenghdeb Mandapi
• North: Dharmanagari
• East: Jahnavi (the Bhagirathi River)
• West: Dalimb-Kshetra

These boundaries suggest that the Betor Chaturak division, under the Bardhaman province, extended eastward to the Bhagirathi River. Present-day Betor in Howrah district corresponds to the geographical extent of the historical Betor Chaturak division. The name Betor itself appears to be a derivative of the earlier administrative unit, which gained prominence during the Sena dynasty.

This historical context highlights Betor’s importance as a significant administrative and trading center during the Sena period. The copperplate inscription, with its precise delineation of boundaries, reflects the region’s integration into the broader socio-political and economic framework of medieval Bengal. (Howrah Jelar Itihas Page 36)

“কালীঘাটে কালীবন্দ, বেতোড়ে বেতাই। পুরুটে ঠাকুর বন্দো, আমতায় মেলাই “।

মক্কাযাত্রীদের যেমন পথিমধ্যে বিশ্রামস্থল জেড্ডা, সপ্তগ্রামে বাণিজ্যযাত্রা পথে বেতড়ও তাই ছিল।

Theatre: The first general theater of Howrah, Kamala Theatre, was established in 1911 on Chintamani De Road, named after the newborn daughter of Prasanna Mitra, Kamala. After raising funds through ticket sales, the Howrah-based artists formed this troupe with the help of a cooperative of local cultural enthusiasts. The troupe was initially formed with the support of several people from the Howrah community, though disagreements over hiring female artists led to a split, with Surenbabu leaving the group.

Lalit Chattopadhyay, who resided at Panchanantala Road and was known as Lalit Master, made his debut as a playwright and director for the troupe. Among the notable actors and actresses were Prasanna Mitra, Prafulla Ray, Sudhangshu Ray, Hiran Banu, Noni Gopal Bandyopadhyay, Jyotishbabu, Banwari Lal Bandyopadhyay, Haripada Bhattacharya, Sthamati, Khoundan Bala, Harimati, Panchubala Dasi, and others.

The troupe enjoyed patronage from prominent figures like Charu Chandra Lingha and Nitaadhan Mukherjee. Some of the major works staged by the troupe included Forhad by Joydev Atul Mitra and Vijay Basanta by Amritlal, which gained considerable attention. These performances not only marked the beginning of a new cultural movement in Howrah but also set the stage for further artistic development in the region. (Howrah Jelar Itihas Page 290)

The first performances in Howrah began at the Town Hall, where plays were held every Saturday and Sunday. The revenue from daily ticket sales amounted to about 250 rupees. As the audience grew, under the guidance of Charu Chandra Singha, Banmali Bandyopadhyay took the initiative to construct a permanent theater on Park’s Garden Lane (now known as Atyindra Mukherjee Lane) in Shibpur. This theater was eventually built where the current Kamala Theatre is located.

Around this time, the businessman Madan, who had profited from investing in cinema theaters in Kolkata, was so impressed with the performances at Kamala Theatre that he took the initiative to build a theater in Howrah as well. Madan later became a patron of Bengali theater, founding Bijou Theatre and promoting Hindi drama performances. However, this venture was unsuccessful. The land where all these events occurred now houses the Bengali Bani cinema.

By 1920, Kamala Theatre closed its doors. In Mugkalyan village, Lakshadhan Ghosal’s performances had left an impression on Sarat Chandra, while in the town of Bali, Tarakumar Mukhopadhyay was recognized as a playwright of the Shishir era. Yogendranath Mukherjee of Shalkia was a renowned stage manager during his time.

On October 28, 1967, the Kalpavriksha Theatre Community of North Howrah inaugurated Michael Theatre in Arvind Market, on Arvind Road, Shalkia. The inauguration was attended by renowned playwright Manmath Ray. Performances were held on Sundays and holidays, but after Michael Theatre closed down, it was replaced by Shishmahal Theatre, which continued professional stage performances for a while.

At Kadamtala, the Navarupam Cinema Hall hosted regular performances of the play Ami Mantri Hobo (I Will Become a Minister), performed by prominent artists like Jahur Rai, for some time. However, in the present day, Howrah no longer appears on the map of permanent professional stage theaters in West Bengal. (Howrah Jelar Itihas Page 292)

Music: The music world of Howrah owes much to the contributions of musicians like Kalipada Pathak and Nikunj Dutta, who played pivotal roles in shaping its heritage. Nikunj Dutta, a prominent figure in the khayal and thumri genres, hailed from Shibpur and was known for his unique style. His musical journey was enriched by the teachings and influence of his family, particularly his relatives, who were renowned kirtan singers from the northern part of Shibpur. In 1933, Nikunj Dutta joined All India Radio, where he gained further recognition. His debut recordings with Columbia Record Company included the songs “Madhav Tuch Rahal Madhupur” and “Tumi Eshechho He Nath.”

Another legendary musician, Durlav Chandra Bhattacharya, emerged from a family of Ramthakur worshippers in Shibram Lane, Sitagachhi, and was an expert in the pakhawaj. His remarkable skills were highly sought after, and it is said that during his time, no one in the region could match his mastery of the instrument. His performances in Banaras at music conferences were particularly notable, where he performed with several prominent musicians, never once faltering in his rhythm.

Durlav Chandra Bhattacharya’s life was marked by excellence and perseverance. Even at the age of 69, while playing in Kolkata with Lalit Mukhopadhyay at the home of Bhupen Ghosh, he was struck by a serious illness, which ultimately led to his passing. He left behind a rich legacy of music, with his contributions to the pakhawaj being celebrated even today.

Among the lyricists of Howrah, Pulak Bandyopadhyay, who resided in Shalkia, was highly regarded for his poetic compositions. Additionally, Dhananjoy Bhattacharya from Belur, along with Palnalal Bhattacharya and Balir Sonal Singh, earned significant recognition for their contributions to Bengali folk music, becoming celebrated names in the music industry of Bengal. These musicians and lyricists, through their dedication and artistry, played crucial roles in the development and dissemination of the musical culture in Howrah. (Howrah Jelar Itihas Page 299)

Painting: Nandalal Basu, a renowned artist from Howrah, holds a special place in the legacy of the region’s artistic culture. Although originally from Banupur village, his name is firmly etched in the list of prominent painters of Howrah. Among the first painters of Howrah, Srinurendranath Das is also notable. He was born on 25th August 1883 in Majhu and later moved to Rajbalipara in Howrah. Srinurendranath Das, who was a distinguished student of Havel Sahib at the Government School in 1898, went on to create remarkable works that garnered admiration. At just 19 years old, he presented his work to the then District Magistrate of Howrah, who purchased the painting for 200 rupees. This painting was subsequently displayed at Howrah Town Hall.

In 1919, his famous painting, “Dusmanter Darbare Shakuntala” was exhibited. The painting’s price at the time was a staggering 4000/- rupees, a remarkable figure considering the prices of other paintings in the exhibit. This was further highlighted by the fact that Atul Borno’s paintings were priced at 50 rupees and Hemendranath Majumdar’s at 250 rupees. In 1915, the Indian Dharm Mahamangal in Varanasi honored him with the title of ‘Artistic Excellence.’ His academic work was unparalleled, and his paintings have been celebrated for their unique and devotional themes.

Surendranath Das had also studied under Abanindranath Tagore, a renowned figure in the Bengal Renaissance. He spent four years under his tutelage. He went on to create magnificent works that were recognized both in India and internationally. His artwork, like “The Meditating Buddha” and “Anti-Naturalistic Figures,” are housed in Kolkata’s museums.

Other renowned artists from Howrah include Ranada Ukil, Langit Sen, Dhirendra Barmar, and his contemporaries who contributed to the vibrant art scene of the region. Notably, the famous Guniya House was adorned with their murals. In 1934, after a successful exhibition in London, his reputation soared further. Srinurendranath Das was also the innovator behind “home décor sketches” in the form of sketches that were used in Metro Cinema in Kolkata.

Furthermore, prominent artists from the district included Sarthakendra Patra, Sail Chakarbarti, Rebati Bhushan Ghosh, Nikilesh Das, Prakash Karmakar, and others. Among these, several went on to study at Santiniketan, like the artist Dharmnarayan Dasgupta, who worked with a local educational institution in Howrah for many years. (Howrah Jelar Itihas Page 307-308, 1980 Edition)