Engraved Epics: Early Bengal Prints of Ramayana

During the mid-19th century, Calcutta under British rule, flourished as the vibrant capital city of India. This period marked a significant cultural and artistic renaissance. Indian students eager to embrace new forms of expression learned various artistic techniques, wood engraving being one of them. The Bengali publishing industry seized upon this artistic innovation, producing a remarkable collection of illustrated versions of the Ramayana during this era. This book stands as a testament to the artistic trend, with the author consciously choosing to narrate the epic through the compelling medium of available illustrations. Each image serves as an episode, a scene, a character study, contributing to a holistic visual interpretation of the timeless tale. Through the interplay of text and image, the book aims to offer a new genre of storytelling, inviting readers to delve into its profound narratives and rich cultural heritage.