Bankimchandra Chatterji

Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | History

Why in news?

Ministry of Minority Affairs to inaugurate the celebration of Commemoration of 150 Years of the National Song “Vande Mataram” on 7th November 2025.

• Bankim Chandra Chatterjee (1838–1894), was a novelist, poet and journalist.
• Early Life & Education
  • He was born on 26/27 June 1838 in Naihati, Bengal Presidency.
  • He was graduated from the University of Calcutta in 1858.
  • He joined the British Indian Civil Service and served as a Deputy Magistrate and Deputy Collector.
• Literary contribution
  • Inspiration – His first novel Durgeshnandini (1865) was inspired by the ruins of Gar Mandaran Fort; it is considered the first modern Bengali romance novel.
  • Works – He authored 14 novels and numerous satirical, scientific, and critical essays in Bengali.
  • Pen name – “Kamalakanta” used for satirical essays.
  • Notable works, including Anandamath (1882), Durgeshnandini (1865), Kapalkundala (1866), and Devi Chaudhurani (1884).
  • Anandamath – A novel, published in 1882 - introduced the song “Vande Mataram”, later composed by Rabindranath Tagore, which became a symbol of India’s freedom movement.
  • Publication – “Vande Mataram” was first published in Bangadarshan, Bankim’s literary magazine.
  • Historical Impact – The song gained prominence during the Swadeshi movement, following the partition of Bengal.
• Role in Bengal Renaissance
  • He was instrumental in the cultural and intellectual awakening of 19th-century Bengal.
  • He promoted national pride, social reform, and literary excellence.
• Awards & Titles
  • Known as "Sahitya Samrat" meaning "Emperor of Literature", for his pioneering role in Bengali prose and nationalism.
  • In 1891, awarded the title of Rai Bahadur, a colonial honour for distinguished officials.
  • In 1894, conferred the title Companion of the Most Eminent Order of the Indian Empire (CMEOIE), a prestigious award for service to the country.
• He died April 8, 1894, Calcutta.

Quick Fact

References

1. PIB | 150 Years of the National Song “Vande Mataram”
2. NDTV | Bankim Chandra Chatterjee