Rethinking the Local in Indian History: Perspectives from Southern Bengal

This volume explores the concept of the 'local' in Indian history through a case study of Bengal, examining how global currents interact with local idioms to produce diverse histories. It discusses the formation of the 'local' in different spatial entities, such as the Jangal Mahal, Sundarbans, Birbhum-Bankura-Purulia, and Calcutta, and explores administrative and amateur representations of these spaces. The chapters explore themes such as textual representations, epistemic practices, educational policies, and administrative manoeuvres, and will be of interest to scholars and researchers in science and technology studies, history, sociology, social anthropology, and South Asian studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 226 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume delves into the concept of the 'local' in Indian history, employing a case study of Bengal to explore how global currents, including colonial governance, pedagogical practices, and intellectual rhythms, intertwine with distinct local idioms to shape diverse regional histories. It examines the processes through which the notion of the 'local' is established within various spatial entities, such as the frontier province of the Jangal Mahal, the Sundarbans, the arid terrain of Birbhum-Bankura-Purulia, and the urban spaces of Calcutta and other small towns. Furthermore, the volume discusses the various administrative and amateur representations of these settings to illustrate how certain spaces become associated with specific images or histories. The chapters within the volume explore a diverse range of themes, including textual representations of the region, epistemic practices and educational policies, as well as administrative maneuvers and governmental practices that aided the state in mapping its people.

An indispensable contribution to the field of Indian history, this interdisciplinary work appeals to scholars and researchers in the domains of science and technology studies, history, sociology, social anthropology, and South Asian studies. Its comprehensive approach sheds light on the intricate interplay between global and local forces, providing valuable insights into the complex tapestry of Indian history.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032055336