Bengal Muslims and Colonial Education, 1854-1947: A Study of Curriculum, Educational Institutions, and Communal Politics

This book explores the impact of British education policies on the Muslims of Colonial Bengal, examining the student composition and curriculum of educational institutions, the role of Muslim leaders, and the conflict between Hindus and Muslims over education and employment. It also discusses the experiences of Muslim women at various schools and universities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 18 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the profound impact of British education policies on the Muslims of Colonial Bengal. It conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the student composition and curriculum of various educational institutions specifically designed for Muslims in Calcutta and Dacca, shedding light on how these institutions played a crucial role in shaping the educated Muslim middle class. The author embarks on an insightful exploration of the roles played by influential Muslim leaders, such as Abdul Latif and Fazlul Huq, in promoting education among the Muslim community. Additionally, the book examines the detrimental effects of segregation in education, which was actively supported by the British, on fostering Muslim anxiety and separatism. By analyzing the intricate conflict of interest between Hindus and Muslims regarding education and employment, the book highlights the strengthening of Muslim solidarity and anti-Hindu sentiments, ultimately leading to the demand for a separate nation. Furthermore, the book delves into the experiences of Muslim women at esteemed educational institutions such as Sakhawat Memorial School, Lady Brabourne College, Eden College, Calcutta, and Dacca Universities during a period when many Brahmo and Hindu schools remained closed to them. This exploration sheds light on the challenges and barriers faced by Muslim women in accessing quality education and highlights the discriminatory practices that perpetuated their marginalization.

An essential contribution to the field of colonial education in India, this book underscores the discriminatory nature of colonial education policies and pedagogy, which played a significant role in exacerbating religious separatism. It offers valuable insights for scholars and researchers interested in modern Indian history, religion, education,Partition studies, minority studies, imperialism, colonialism, and South Asian history. By examining the intricate interplay between education, religion, and politics in Colonial Bengal, this book provides a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shaped the region's history and contributed to the partition of India.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367278281