Dr. Mrittunjoy Guha Majumdar, IHAR Science Cell Head & Executive Member, was invited to speak on the exploration of the nature of reality from both scientific and Indian Knowledge Systems perspectives on Doordarshan’s flagship Sanskrit news magazine show Vartavalli. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the show for its important role in promoting Indian culture and the Sanskrit language. In his talk, Dr. Guha Majumdar reflected on his intellectual journey and discussed key themes such as non-classical resonances within Advaita traditions, along with notable achievements in ancient Indian science and mathematics.
This marks Dr. Guha Majumdar’s third appearance on Doordarshan; a notable earlier feature included his documentary on quantum mechanics, ‘Chancing upon the Quantum’, produced under the Science India initiative.

National Library and Primus Books Hosted Discussion on Revisiting Bagha Jatin and Early Revolutionaries of Bengal (1890–1915)

Kolkata, 1 June 2026: The National Library of India, in collaboration with Primus Books, hosted a discussion on IHAR Bharat Foundation’s executive member Prof Shri Amitava Chatterjee’s book, Revisiting Bagha Jatin and Early Revolutionaries of Bengal (1890–1915), at the Conference Hall of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Bhasha Bhavan, National Library, Kolkata.

The event brought together eminent historians, academics, students, and readers for a stimulating discussion on the history of revolutionary nationalism in Bengal and the enduring legacy of Bagha Jatin and his associates. The book revisits the formative years of Bengal’s revolutionary movement between 1890 and 1915 and offers fresh perspectives on the political ideas, organizational networks, and anti-colonial activities that shaped this critical phase of India’s freedom struggle.

The discussion featured distinguished speakers including Professor Ajay Pratap Singh, Director General of the National Library of India; Professor Smritikumar Sarkar, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Burdwan; Professor Alok Ghosh, former Professor of History at Kalyani University; Professor Rup Kumar Barman, Vice-Chancellor of Bankura University; and Dr Rabiranjan Sen of Katwa College.

The speakers highlighted the importance of revisiting lesser-explored dimensions of India’s anti-colonial movement and reflected on the contribution of revolutionary nationalists to the struggle against British rule. Particular attention was devoted to the historical significance of Bagha Jatin’s leadership and the events culminating in the Battle of Buribalam, which continue to generate scholarly debate regarding their place in the larger narrative of India’s freedom movement.

The discussion underscored the need for continued research into regional histories of nationalism and the role of archival scholarship in recovering overlooked episodes and personalities from the past. Participants engaged actively with the themes raised by the book, making the event a meaningful forum for historical reflection and academic exchange.

The programme concluded with an interactive session with the audience, followed by refreshments.

Organized by:
National Library of India in collaboration with Primus Books, Kolkata

Libraries have always played a vital role in shaping political sentiments and nurturing nationalist ideas in India. In Bengal, one of the most significant institutions that fostered political and revolutionary awakening during British rule was the Chaitanya Library, located in Kolkata.

Founded in 1889, the library’s founding members included eminent intellectuals such as Gaur Hari Sen, Kunj Behari Datta, and Rabindranath Tagore.

Situated on Beadon Street, right beside the historic Minerva Theatre, the Chaitanya Library still stands tall and imposing. Within its walls lies a treasure trove that transcends time and history. Sadly, years of neglect and fading memory have left this iconic institution in decline. Once home to more than one lakh books and magazines, the library is now in urgent need of attention—not only to protect its vast collection but also to preserve its tangible and intangible heritage.

With this concern in mind, the IHAR West Bengal Chapter recently conducted a survey visit to the library. The team will soon prepare a detailed report on the state of the Chaitanya Library and explore ways in which its treasures and legacy can be preserved for future generations.

Special thanks to Manideepa Basu, Mouli Roy, and Prof. Utkalika Sahoo, Bangabasi Evening College for their time and support in initiating this important step on behalf of IHAR West Bengal Chapter.