Sishir Kumar Ghosh: Vaishnava Nationalist

Abstract

The article "Sishir Kumar Ghosh: Vaishnava Nationalist" by Varuni Bhatia examines the multifaceted life and contributions of Sishir Kumar Ghosh (1840-1911), a pivotal figure in 19th-century Bengal whose anti-colonial activism was deeply intertwined with his devotion to Chaitanyite Vaishnavism. The article highlights Ghosh's background as a prominent journalist, publisher, and public intellectual, primarily known for his pioneering work with the Amrita Bazar Patrika. It elucidates how his newspaper served as a significant voice for middle-class Indian interests and a staunch critic of British colonial rule, even famously transforming into an English weekly to circumvent the Vernacular Press Act. Beyond his journalistic endeavors, the article explores Ghosh's profound engagement with religious thought, including a brief foray into Brahmoism, Spiritualism, and Theosophy, before solidifying his identity as a leading Vaishnava thinker. It delves into his "neo-Vaishnavism," which proudly asserted Gauranga (Chaitanya Mahaprabhu) as a supreme indigenous avatara, fostering a unique blend of devotional fervor and national pride. The article also discusses his establishment of the Gauranga Samaj to revive and promote Chaitanyite Vaishnavism, and his most popular work, the multi-volume hagiography Amiya Nimai Charit. Finally, it touches upon lesser-known aspects of his personality, such as his physical prowess and musical talents.