Kolikata Darpan: Radharaman Mitra’s History of Past Kolkata
Kolikata Darpan: A Mirror to Kolkata’s Past and Radharaman Mitra’s Enduring Legacy
The literary landscape of Bengal owes a significant debt to Radharaman Mitra, the erudite author of Kolikata Darpan Vol-1 and Vol-2 (A Mirror to Kolkata). This seminal work, much more than a mere historical account, stands as a critical and descriptive masterpiece, offering an unparalleled deep dive into the origins and evolution of Kolkata, then known as Calcutta.
Initially, the various essays that would eventually comprise ‘Kolikata Darpan Vol-1 and Vol-2‘ were serialized in the esteemed Bengali magazine, ‘Ekkhon’. Following their successful run, Mitra meticulously compiled, refined, and released them as a consolidated volume. Notably, the comprehensive chapter on ‘Gangar Ghat‘ (The Ghats of the Ganges) was specifically written for the book and did not appear in the ‘Ekkhan’ series. ‘Kolikata Darpan’ Historical Collection is published in two volumes, with the first volume offering a critical commentary on the writings of the renowned scholar Suniti Kumar Chattopadhyay, alongside its rich historical narratives.
The book is particularly lauded for its detailed exploration of Kolkata’s communication infrastructure, dedicating extensive sections to the intricate history of its railway system and the advent of air transport. It meticulously traces the introduction of trams in Kolkata, detailing when the first tram lines were laid and when the city witnessed its inaugural tram ride. In essence, the first volume of Kolikata Darpan serves as a descriptive treasure trove of lesser-known facts about Kolkata, interwoven with Mitra’s insightful criticisms of Suniti Kumar Chattopadhyay’s observations.
The Extraordinary Life of Radharaman Mitra: A Scholar, Activist, and Historian
Born into a modest family in Kolkata’s Shyam Bazar on February 23, 1897, Radharaman Mitra’s intellectual journey began at Shyam Bazar Vidyasagar School, where he completed his minor studies. His pursuit of education led him to Hindu School. He was matriculated in 1913 from this school. It was here that he forged a lifelong friendship with Nirendranath Roy from 1910, a bond that endured through various trials and triumphs. In 1917 he completed his graduation from St. Paul’s Cathedral Mission College. He was MA in Calcutta University. He was Sahitya Akademi awarded for his notable work Kolikata Darpan in 1981.
Mitra’s academic career was marked by exceptional brilliance. He, along with his close friend Nirendranath Roy, matriculated in 1913. Beyond Bengali, he possessed a remarkable command over English and was deeply immersed in European literature, including French, German, and Russian works. He went on to complete his Intermediate examinations, showcasing his consistent academic excellence.
While Nirendranath Roy pursued higher education, eventually becoming a professor of English literature at Bangabasi College, Radharaman Mitra’s path diverged significantly. Despite his initial aspiration to become an author, he felt a powerful pull towards the burgeoning freedom movement. He actively joined Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement, a decision that would profoundly shape his life.
Where Radharaman Mitra joined first in the Non-Cooperation Movement?
His involvement in the Non-Cooperation Movement began in the Etawah district of Uttar Pradesh. His fervent participation led to a year-long imprisonment. Upon his release, he aligned himself with the extremist faction of the Congress party. However, internal discord within the extremist group soon led him to embrace Communism, becoming a dedicated member of the Communist Party. This shift led to his arrest as a key conspirator in the infamous Meerut Conspiracy Case. Mitra was known for his unwavering honesty and outspoken nature, never resorting to falsehoods. He remained a stalwart figure in the Communist Party, leading numerous movements and dedicating a significant portion of his life to activism.
A Complex Legacy: From Marxist Luminary to Literary Scholar
Radharaman Mitra’s life spanned a tumultuous period of the 20th century, witnessing profound societal and political transformations. His intellectual prowess extended to Marxist philosophy, where he became a distinguished figure. He inspired countless young men and women in Bengal to embrace Marxist thought, becoming a guiding light for a new generation of ideologues.
However, in a twist of fate, the very individual who championed Marxist ideals and drew hundreds to its cause, made the decision to relinquish his membership in the Communist Party in 1952. Following this pivotal moment, he fully dedicated himself to literary pursuits.
It was in this phase that ‘Kolikata Darpan’ truly cemented his legacy in Bengal (Bangladesh and West Bengal) and Bengali literature. His meticulous understanding of Kolkata’s history, down to the minutest details, was the bedrock of this monumental work. ‘Kolikata Darpan’ Vol-1 and Vol-2 are widely considered an invaluable resource for future generations of scholars and historical researchers, providing an unprecedented level of detail and critical insight into the city’s past. While many have written about Kolkata’s history, Mitra’s ability to present such a beautiful, precise, and critical account remains unparalleled. His two volumes on Kolkata’s history generated immense excitement and discussion among readers.
When Radharaman Mitra passed away?
Radharaman Mitra passed away in Kolkata on February 7, 1992, at the remarkable age of 96. His varied life experiences and profound intellectual contributions leave an enduring mark on the cultural and political history of Bengal and India. Despite political differences, his friendship with Nirendranath Roy remained steadfast throughout their lives.
For those eager to delve into the depths of Kolkata’s past through Radharaman Mitra’s unparalleled vision, the PDF file of ‘Kolikata Darpan’ Valume-1 and 2 are made available on this webpage for online reading and download.
PDF Download: Bengali Rare Historical Collection Book
Kolikata Darpan Vol-1
Kolikata Darpan Vol-2
Why Should You Read This Bengali Collection Novel?
✔ Strong Mere collection history telling
✔ Rich and symbolic Bengali prose
✔ A rare but powerful work by Radharaman Mitra
✔ Suitable for literature students and researchers
Note: This digital copy is provided for educational and archival purposes only. Support original publishers if available.