Uttarbanger Rajbangshi by Charuchandra Sanyal [Hardcover]

"'Uttarbanger Rajbanshi' is a comprehensive book on the Rajbanshi community residing in the Darjeeling Terai (Siliguri), Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar districts of West Bengal. Based on years of field research and experience, this valuable book was first published in English in 1965 by Charuchandra Sanyal. The book carefully discusses the Rajbanshis' demographic distribution, natural environment, character, pre-history, cultural practices, lifestyle, marriage customs, death and related ceremonies, religious rituals, music, dialects, and more.

By shedding light on their lives, often viewed through the lens of a backward and marginalized community, the book helps to alleviate social discrimination. The author’s sense of responsibility and belief have made this research-oriented work incredibly significant. Sanyal observes the simplicity and intelligence of the Rajbanshi people through their sports, proverbs, and songs. He perceives the vast vocabulary in their dialect, which has the potential to enrich any Indian language.

Even fifty years after its publication, this unparalleled work on the Rajbanshi community continues to inspire and inform the root-seeking new generation. The book has been honored with the Rabindra Award."