Nari O Paribar by Bharati Ray [Hardcover]

"From the latter half of the 19th century, a significant change began in the urban life of this country. On one side was the Babu culture, and on the other, the newly educated and Western-educated urban society. Inspired by new consciousness, this society sought to break various stagnant institutions through various reform movements. One of the key subjects of their initiatives and movements became women. Many scholars in this country, as well as certain associations and publications, made efforts to free women from their low social status, ignorance, superstitions, and confined lives. Among these, the 19th-century journal Bamabodhini Patrika was notable. 'Bamabodhini Sabha' published this journal. A few young Brahmo men took the initiative to publish Bamabodhini Patrika in 1863 to 'elevate the mental development' of women. Edited by Umeshchandra Dutta, Bamabodhini was the first magazine in India and the whole of Asia aimed at women. Earlier, a magazine named 'Masik Patrika' (1854-55) was published for women but did not last long. Bamabodhini's publication period extended for sixty years, a testament to its significance, demand, and importance for any magazine. The purpose of the magazine was clearly stated in its first issue: 'Without providing a path for enlightenment to enter the inner quarters, the general welfare cannot be achieved.' The management was vigilant about not only providing enlightenment but also fostering 'the emergence of true knowledge' and 'excellent mentality' among women. The magazine published various topics, including education, health knowledge, travel narratives, stories and novels, poetry and visual arts, science topics, success stories of foreign women, child-rearing methods, religious discussions, and domestic life. In sum, it aimed to awaken and invigorate the minds of readers from all walks of life. In the context of history, Bamabodhini holds a prominent position among contemporary periodicals. On one hand, it shaped the views of 19th-century reformists and nationalist leaders, and on the other, it created the image of women and evaluated their roles in society and family. The value of that portrayal is that its influence has not faded even today. The signals of a revolutionary change in women's society across the country are no longer unclear. This magazine bears the signatures of a strong past's ideals and indicates a promising historical beginning. In terms of evaluating the social status of women in a distinct perspective, Bamabodhini is a pioneer of a new path. Bamabodhini itself is history. The current collection includes essays on women and family published in this magazine."