Kaliprasanna Singha

Kaliprasanna Singha () (23 February 1841 - 24 July 1870) is remembered for his two immortal contributions to Bengali literature viz. translation of Mahabharata, the largest epic, and his book Hutom Pyanchar Naksha.

Early Life

In his short span of life (1841–1870), Kaliprasanna was a man of versatile qualities.He was born in 1841 in the renowned "Singha" family of Jorasanko in North Kolkata.His grandfather Jay Krishna was one of the directors of Hindu College. Kaliprasanna's father Shantiram Singha died when he was only six years old. Babu Hara Chandra Ghosh became his mentor after his father's death.

Education

Kaliprasanna was admitted to Hindu College. In 1857 he leaved College. He enhanced his English knowledge under the guidance of an European teacher Mr.Kirkpatrick.He had contribution in different fields as an author, editor, a publisher, a philanthropist, a social worker, and a great patron of art, literature and culture.

Contributions

Vidyotsahini Sabha

He established the Vidyotsahini Sabha(a platform for those interested in education) at the age of 14. It was established most probably in 1855. Eminent native gentlemen like Krishnadas Pal, Acharya Krishna Kamal Bhattacharya, Peari Chand Mitra, and Radhanath Sikdar were associated with it. Vidyotsahini Sabha was mainly responsible for promoting Hindu theater. The members of this group performed "Shakuntala" in 1857.According to an witness " The performance of 'Sakuntala' at...
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