And there was light: the bengal renaissance and the pioneers in education

The nineteenth century Bengal can be traced with jubilant culture, socio-religious and educational transitions most commonly termed as the Bengal Renaissance. The European culture produced its impact and caused an educational awakening. This gradually proceeded towards the development of modern Indian culture and thoughts. The historical background of the education in Bengal will not be complete without elaborating the roles of the pioneers of education. The then society had submerged itself into cultural rigidity which could only be eradicated through the spread of education. It is noteworthy to introspect into how these reformers wisely amalgamated the traditional studies with the western education. This paper is a humble attempt to introspect into the roles of these pioneers who fought relentlessly in establishing modern education at the same time honouring traditional studies. Today there is a threat of disintegration in many of the aspects of our lives, and thereafter it becomes crucial to hold on to the glorious past.