Contact : 9883520202 Email: ownthepastotp@gmail.com  www.ownthepast.org

THE FREEDOM WALKS 

Bengal, through the 19th and early 20th centuries was witness to a phenomenon known as the Bengal Rennaissance. It  signified the social, cultural and intellectual awakening and  encompassed a blend of people from all walks of life- writers, poets, philosophers and artists. These persons shaped the thoughts and beliefs and influenced  society not only in Bengal but eventually the entire country.

The intellectulals, influenced by western thoughts and philosphy , embraced  issues questioning orthodox norms, confronting religion and the dogmas. Ironically, the enthusiam for Western ideas and ways of  life also produced a wave of anglophobia which laid the foundations of the freedom movement.

The three walks of the  different sites and places are

The Boi Para Walk:

In the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Kolkata was the epicenter of ‘The Bengal Renaissance’. This movement questioned existing orthodox ideas, particularly with respect to women, marriage, the dowry system, the caste system and religion. The area around College Street in Kolkata was the heart of the reformist movements like the Brahmo Samaj. Several leading institutions of learning were set up here. This area  provides an interesting insight into the social and intellectual concerns that shaped India, culminating in the struggle for independence.

  • Availability: Throughout the year. Recommended time start time 7 am in summers and 7.30 am in winters.
  • Duration: 3 hours approximately
  • Meeting point: Central Metro Station near Maharana Pratap’s statue.

 The Nationalist Trail:

Bidhan Sarani, the erstwhile Cornwallis Street was built by the Lottery Commission in the early 1800s. Through the 19th and early 20th centuries, it was the place which was the hot bed for nationalism and the centre of cultural and literary renaissance. The alleys and lanes have  witnessed the emergence of nationalist politics. There are  places associated with eminent personalities, the roots of the Bengal Renaissance. A  powerful influence in moulding current social and political thought, much of the legacy has been lost and forgotten.

  • Availability: Throughout the year. Recommended time start time 7 am in summers and 7.30 am in winters.
  • Duration: 3 hours approximately
  • Meeting point: Raja Ram Mohan College, Amherst Street.

The Spirit of Renaissance-Emergence of a New Society:

The 19th century in Bengal was a time of transition from medieval to the modern in a number of fields, including literature, religion, social reforms, political leanings and scientific discovery. Under the leadership of Raja Ram Mohan Roy, boundaries of traditional Hindu culture were pushed and there was a strong advocacy for the betterment  of Indian society especially that of women. In this walk, we explore the sites which laid the foundation of women’s education and emancipation.

 

 

FOR ALL TOURS

  • Tour price: Rs. 1500 per person (Minimum 2 pax required)
  • Inclusions:
  • Expert English-speaking guide
  • Some local snacks and bottled water
  • All entries
  • Exclusions:
  • Any personal tips which the guests would want to give.