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Preserving Bengal’s Intellectual Legacy: IHAR West Bengal Chapter Undertakes Detailed Survey of Uttarpara Joykrishna Mukherjee Public Library

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The site visit report on the Uttarpara Joykrishna Mukherjee Public Library is a comprehensive survey conducted by the Indian History Awareness Research (IHAR) team, highlighting the library’s unparalleled status as a treasure trove of rare manuscripts, books, and archival materials crucial for understanding Bengal and India’s cultural and intellectual heritage. This survey was prompted by concerns raised by the descendants of Shri Joykrishna Mukherjee regarding the fragile state of invaluable collections within this historic institution. As an independent organization committed to heritage conservation, IHAR assessed the library to recommend steps for its safekeeping, digitization, and modernization, thereby continuing the library’s legacy as a pillar of learning and knowledge since its inception in 1859.

The project was overseen by Project Director Shri Surya Sarathi Roy, Director of India Operations at IHAR. The IHAR team comprised notable members including Shri Bhujang Bobde (Director, Karnataka Epigraphic Conservationist Archives), Ms. Manideepa Basu (Executive Member, Indian Museum), Ms. Mouli Roy (Executive Member, National Library), and Shri Sumit Ganguly (Co-Convenor Academic, IHAR), among others. Their collective expertise in history, museology, conservation, and law was pivotal in conducting a detailed evaluation of the library’s current condition and proposing actionable measures for its preservation.

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Why not Conserve? Delving into the Ground Realities of Conserving Unprotected Heritage in India

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About the Article Author - Protyoy Sen

Protyoy Sen is an architect, currently pursuing his Masters in Building Conservation at the Welsh School of Architecture, Cardiff University. Having graduated from CEPT University Ahmedabad in 2023, his primary interest lies in the tangible values of conserving heritage, incentivisation for its stakeholders, and aligning conservation with broader goals of urban planning and sustainability. He believes that the potential of heritage in creating a rooted economy is currently underutilised in India, and attributes his passion to the architectural legacy of his hometown, Calcutta. His earlier research delved into the practical challenges of conserving heritage buildings, and its quantifiable benefits for the society.

Protyoy also has over two years of experience in the industry, having worked with Indian heritage bodies such as INTACH and DRONAH. His work, during this time, included projects with private clients, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and State Archaeology and Tourism departments.

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Prayagraj and Its Sacred Glory (Prayāga Māhātmya)

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About the Article Author - Jitendra Tiwari

Jitendra Tiwari is a committed educator and cultural practitioner devoted to the service of Bharat through the revival and application of its eternal civilizational wisdom. His work consciously integrates education, heritage conservation, and sustainable rural development, aiming to harmonize tradition with meaningful service to society.

He served for five years as Headmaster at Govardhan Gurukul, Govardhan Eco Village, where he was deeply involved in value-based education, character formation, and community development initiatives. At present, he teaches Mathematics and English at a Gurukul in Parmanand Ashram, Prayagraj. His teaching journey—spanning Prayagraj and earlier experience in Mumbai—has strengthened his resolve to nurture disciplined, holistic learning among students, shaping them into responsible future leaders of society and the nation.

Through the Sri Adishankaracharya Foundation, he actively works to promote Panchgavya-based organic farming, cow protection, farmer and artisan empowerment, and digital documentation of Bharat’s rich heritage. He also curates heritage walks in Prayagraj and develops educational modules and guidebooks grounded in the region’s sacred history and cultural legacy.

Deeply inspired by the teachings of great Acharyas—especially Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Nishchalanand Saraswati Maharaj—Jitendra Tiwari views his life’s work as a humble offering toward the protection, propagation, and lived practice of Bharat’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

 
 
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Sangam and Kumbh Mela in Bengal: The Sacred Legacy of ‘Dakshin Prayag’ Tribeni

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About the Article Author - Pallab Mondal

Pallab Mondal is an independent researcher and columnist with a keen interest in cultural and social issues. A committed cultural and social activist, his work focuses on engaging with society through research, writing, and grassroots perspectives. He holds an MA in Social Work from Rabindra Bharati University, which informs his analytical approach and active involvement in social and cultural discourse.

 
 
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