Battalar Chhapa O Chhobi by Sukumar Sen [Hardcover]

The term Battolar Boi (books of Battala) often evokes a sense of disregard among modern, educated readers. Some associate it with cheap religious texts like Panchali, others think of Jatra (folk theater) scripts, while some recall the secretive thrillers like Haridaser Guptokotha. But are Battala books truly so undeserving of respect? On the occasion of the bicentennial celebrations of the Asiatic Society, the esteemed Sukumar Sen dispels many of these misconceptions in this book. He demonstrates how the printing presses of Battala played a crucial role in reviving a nearly lost literary and cultural tradition. Culture also encompasses visual arts, and long before the famed Kalighat Pat paintings emerged, illustrations were created for Battala books—marking our first major endeavor in modern visual art. In Bottolar Chhapa O Chhobi, Sukumar Sen not only chronicles the history of illustrated books from Battala but also narrates the fascinating origins of illustrated Bengali books and early printing technology. This new edition includes a Bengali translation of one of the author’s previously published English essays, along with a comprehensive, alphabetically arranged list of printing presses from Battala, other parts of the city, and even rural areas. The editor has meticulously compiled this information, and this edition also features several newly added illustrations. For researchers and curious readers alike, this book stands as a valuable and enlightening treasure.