Historiography and Bengali Thought: Reviewing 'Oitihasik O Itihas Chinta'

Historiography in Bengal has always been more than an academic discipline; it is an exploration of cultural identity and human self-realization. As the prominent historian E.H. Carr observed: "Before you study history, study the historian."

The Bengali word 'Itihas' springs from 'Aitiho'—heritage and that which has come to pass. In 'Oitihasik O Itihas Chinta' (The Historian and Historical Thought), senior Calcutta University history scholars Prof. Jahar Sen and Prof. Nirban Basu, edited by sociologist Dr. Sajal Basu, probe the foundations of modern Indian historical consciousness.

Through chapters examining regional social shifts, religious reform movements, and archival criticism, this book is an indispensable reference for research scholars and students of Indian history alike.