Rajshahi University Journal of Arts & Law
Rajshahi University Journal of Arts & Law is an official journal of the University of Rajshahi that publishes research articles by teachers and researchers of the faculties/institutes (Arts, Law and Fine Arts) concerned as well as those from outside of the University.
১৯৯০ এর দশকে বাংলাদেশের কমিউনিস্ট আন্দোলনের মতাদর্শগত দ্বন্দ্ব: একটি বিশ্লেষণ
This study examines the ideological and organizational crisis that struck the Communist Party of Bangladesh in the early 1990s, precipitated by the fall of the Soviet Union and the downfall of socialist governments in Eastern Europe. These global developments had a deep effect on left movements everywhere, especially in Bangladesh, where inner strife between reformist and orthodox groups deepened. The party faced a dual challenge: the need to reboot its ideological principles in response to a changing global context and the need to maintain internal unity in the face of competing strategic visions. Through an in-depth analysis of the events of 1991-1993, including party congresses, leadership conflicts, and ideological debates, this study highlights the way in which theoretical divergence led to political fragmentation. The research also investigates how dependence on Soviet ideological sponsorship influenced the party's structural volatility after 1991. In short, it is the argument of this paper that the ideological divide within the party was a reflection of international developments and an effort to reconcile socialism with the political reality of Bangladesh.
Ideological Conflict of Communist Party of Bangladesh
Copyright (c) 2026 Rajshahi University Journal of Arts & Law https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
An Assessment of the Financial Barriers to Women's Higher Educational Attainment in Alia Madrasah of Bangladesh
The advancement of women's higher education in Alia Madrasahs of Bangladesh remains hindered by insufficiently examined financial constraints that emerge from structurally gendered socioeconomic imbalances. This study investigates how financial affordability, including familial resource allocation biases, rural dropouts linked to transport costs, institutional funding gaps, and other constraints, disproportionately limit women's higher education enrollment in urban, peri-urban, and rural Madrasahs. This research employs a predominantly qualitative approach, supplemented with some quantitative data, to address the financial challenges of women's higher education in Alia Madrasah. Analyzing survey data from 204 students across 9 institutions nationwide and interviews with KII's and the IDI's the research identifies systemic issues: (1) rural students incur higher hidden cost than urban peers; (2) very few accessed need-based scholarships, with no gender-targeted; and (3) a major portion of the families prioritized sons’ education when facing financial strain. The study concludes with policy recommendations, including the development of gender-sensitive financial aid programs and institutional reforms to enhance accessibility.
Women Education and Alia Madrasah of Bangladesh
সপ্তম জাতীয় সংসদ নির্বাচন ও ডানপন্থী রাজনীতি: নির্বাচনী প্রচারণার ভাষ্য ও প্রভাব
The Seventh National Parliamentary Election of Bangladesh, held on 12 June 1996, marked a significant turning point in the country’s political history. Beyond ending a prolonged phase of political stalemate, the election was notable for the strategic use of right-leaning political narratives within electoral campaigns. This paper examines how key political actors framed issues such as independence, sovereignty, nationalism, privatization of state-owned enterprises, market liberalization and religious symbolism as central themes in their campaigns. Drawing on election manifestos, campaign speeches, newspaper reports, and printed materials, this study employs discourse analysis to explore the nature and impact of right-leaning political strategies. The evidence points to these narratives were instrumental in shaping voter perceptions and behavior, influencing both short-term electoral outcomes and longer-term ideological alignments in Bangladeshi politics. By analyzing the language and strategies adopted by political parties, particularly the Bangladesh Awami League, Bangladesh Nationalist Party, Jatiya Parti and Jamat-e-Islami Bangladesh this research contributes to understanding the adaptability of party ideology, the politicization of religion, and the growing influence of economic liberalism in a transitional democracy. The study offers new insights into the interplay between ideology, campaign rhetoric, and electoral success, and provides a valuable framework for future studies on party politics and voter behavior in Bangladesh.
Seventh Parliamentary Election of Bangladesh
মুয়াবিয়ার খিলাফতে বৈদেশিক সম্পর্ক: একটি ঐতিহাসিক পর্যালোচনা
Hazrat Muawiyah (RA.) was one of the rulers in the history of the world who is remembered for his own merits. He set a unique example of valor, bravery and courage. In spite of being a controversial and extravagant ruler, his personal life remained incorrupted. Muawiyah ibn Abu Sufzan (RA.) ruled as the first Umayyad Caliph of Islam from 661 to 680 AD. regardless of the methods he adopted to seize power, historians have recognized him as an experienced ruler, a skilled diplomat and a fearless warrior. He became a caliph of Damascus and this initiated the concept of monarchy in the history of Islam. During his reign, a well-organized and policy strategy was followed in foreign relations. He focused on expanding the boundaries of the Islamic Caliphate as well as showing skill in establishing good foreign relations with the Byzantine Empire, North Africa, Transoxiana in Central Asia, Khorasan and other neighboring powers. Not only was his Caliphate consolidated but also extended both regionally and internationally. This policy helped him to lay the foundation of the Umayyad Caliphate. This paper attempts to highlight the key aspects of foreign relations during his caliphate.
This article explores Milepost (1962–64), a landmark play by Sayeed Ahmad (1931–2010) that signals a distinctive turn in Bangladeshi dramaturgy. Departing from Beckettian impulses, Milepost is constructed through mechanisms embedded in the articulation of indigenous reality. While a “milepost” typically refers to a roadside marker indicating distance from a particular location, Ahmad’s use of the term is metaphorically radical. In the play, the spatial limits of the titular milepost remain unknowable, mirroring the characters' uncertain trajectories and metaphysical disorientation—underscoring a profound existential crisis. Set against the backdrop of intensifying socio-cultural self-awareness, the article seeks to unravel the play’s inner significance through a critical interrogation of dramaturgical forms that, while bearing European imprints, remain unbound by rigid formalism. There exists a significant dearth of research on Sayeed Ahmad's oeuvre, particularly within the Bangladeshi academic sphere. Yet, his dramaturgy imaginatively reconfigures the theatrical landscape of the Bengali imagination, planting seeds for scholarly inquiry. While Milepost resists conventional realism, its aesthetic legitimacy remains unassailable. The play’s abstract layering—situating an inanimate object at the narrative center—compels both spectators and scholars toward deeper hermeneutical engagement. Anchored in the political and social matrix of pre-liberation Bangladesh, this study investigates how an object can be foregrounded as the protagonist within dramatic structure. Through a methodologically hybrid approach—combining positional neutrality with empirical observation—the essay endeavors to decode the dramaturgical and philosophical mechanics at play. Ultimately, it will argue that Milepost: Observing in Native Reality emerges as a cultural and historical vessel: a theatrical embodiment capable of reflecting the complexity and spirit of Bangladesh’s lived experience.
কাজী নজরুল ইসলাম, লাঙল ও বাংলার কমিউনিস্ট আন্দোলন: একটি পর্যালোচনা
Langal, a weekly magazine edited by Kazi Nazrul Islam, played a pivotal role in the early communist movement in Bengal. Established in 1925 as the mouthpiece of the Labour Swaraj Party, Langal was the first publication in undivided Bengal to promote communist ideology openly. It became a powerful platform for advocating workers' and peasants' rights, social justice, and anti-colonial resistance. This paper examines Langal's contributions to Bengal’s leftist politics, analyzing its key publications, editorial stance, and impact on the growing communist movement. The magazine published translations of Marxist literature, discussions on class struggle, and critiques of British imperialism. Through Langal, communist ideals reached a broader audience, influencing political discourse and mobilizing the working class. By tracing the magazine’s history, this study highlights its significance as an intellectual and ideological force in shaping Bengal’s early communist movement.
রাজশাহী জেলার ঐতিহাসিক পটভূমি (১৯৪৭-১৯৭১)
The period from 1947 to 1971 represents an era of profound transformation in the history of Bengal, the reflection of which is also clearly evident in regional history. In this context, an analysis of the historical landscape of Rajshahi district holds particular significance, as this region has long played a vital role as the administrative, economic, and cultural center of North Bengal. This article attempts a sharp observation of the evolution of the socio-economic, geographical, and administrative systems of the greater Rajshahi region in the post-1947 period. Alongside this, the obscure settlements of the present and whatever little exists have also been presented in the article. In other words, the present article endeavors to present the comprehensive history of Rajshahi district by analyzing its historical background, geographical and administrative evolution, and social and economic transformation during the aforementioned period and the time preceding it.
Mythology in Translation: Kazi Nazrul Islam’s Bangla Poem “Dhūmkētu” in English Language
This study assesses the translation quality of the mythological elements that appear – mainly as symbols – in Kazi Nazrul Islam’s seminal Bangla poem “Dhūmkētu.” The translators involved are Abdul Hakim, Kabir Chowdhury, Mustofa Munir and Sutapa Chaudhuri. Analyzing the data collected from both the original poem and its translations through qualitative textual analysis, it is found that the mythological references that enrich the original poem – including “Baiśvānar,” “Bāman Bidhi,” “Bhagabān-Abhimunyē,” “Daś abatār,” “Dēbarāj-dambhōli,” “Dhūrjaṭi-śikh,” “Mahākāl,” “Pināk,” “Praṇab-ninād” and “Śibēr Trinaẏan” – are variously treated by the translators. The elements that are entirely dropped and thus their cultural significance is suppressed in all the translated versions are the allusions to “Baiśvānar,” “Bāman Bidhi” and “Mahākāl.” The rest of the elements exhibit mixed findings; they are approximated in some versions of the poem but not approximated in the rest of the versions. Instances of mistranslation and the undoing of figures of speech like personifications and symbols are also found in the translated versions, revealing the loss of meaning, implication and original intent.
Transforming Face-to-Face Tertiary Level Teaching and Learning into Online Modalities in the Context of Bangladesh
In this globalized world, intellectual capital (IC) becomes highly valued by people and governments, and tertiary education has undergone significant changes in both advanced and emerging countries. The transition is related to diverse elements of online modalities and how those factors differ from the face-to-face (f2f) mode. This shift to online teaching and learning is still at the initial stage for teachers and learners. In Bangladesh, transforming f2f tertiary-level teaching and learning into an online modality has bright prospects. But there are substantial challenges in bridging the gap between f2f and online modalities and ensuring fair access. Many institutions have transformed by using existing resources, while many struggle due to limited access to technology, poor digital literacy, and the high cost of the internet. Thus, this study discloses the start of online education with the use of technology. It also unveils the impact of tradition-bound brick-and-mortar campuses that fail to use new strategies and leadership for tertiary face-to-face teaching and learning in Bangladesh. We anticipate an integrated approach that will promote both f-to-f and online tertiary education as well as create the right academic environment.
পরিকল্পিত শিশু: প্রাচীন ধারণা থেকে সমকালিন বাস্তবতা
Although artificial reproduction is a relatively veryuch contemporary scientific phenomenon, narratives of artificially created life can be traced across mythological, folkloric, and religious traditions. In Indian, Greek, Egyptian cultures, various accounts describe the possibility of generating life through non-natural means. Within medieval European thought, concepts such as the Homunculus and Paracelsus’s (1493-1541) notion of an artificially fashioned human being reflect this long-standing imagination of synthetic creation. In contrast, contemporary developments in biotechnology have transformed such imaginative constructs into a matter of scientific practice. A prominent example is the controversial case of Chinese researcher He Jiankui, who claimed to have produced the world’s first genetically edited babies, thereby igniting global debate. The emergence of artificial reproduction raises profound ethical, legal, and social questions. Issues such as the sanctity of life, bioethical responsibility, human dignity, moral accountability, and social justice have come to the forefront of scholarly and policy discourse. Consequently, many countries have enacted legal and regulatory frameworks to govern reproductive technologies. Nonetheless, widespread ethical consensus remains elusive, as societal acceptance of such practices is far from universal. The unresolved moral tensions underscore the uncertain trajectory of humanity’s engagement with artificial reproduction.
Philosophy of technology and men in future
Decent Work for Informal Workers in Bangladesh: A Quest for Legal Safeguards
By assessing the constitution of the people’s republic of Bangladesh, labor-related laws, and international conventions, the scenery of informal workers in Bangladesh is shown under this study. The Constitution of Bangladesh guarantees fundamental rights like non-discrimination in job, equitable pay, and social security etc. for all workers which are insufficiently implementable in case of informal workers. The Bangladesh Labor Act-2006 is to protect workers giving social security, occupational safety, health safety, fair wages both for men and women, etc. and unfortunately these are not clearly expressed for this informal workers’ class in our country. This situation leaves them vulnerable to unsafe working conditions, wage imbalance and job insecurity and other so on. International Labor Organization (ILO) plays the most vital role for workers worldwide. Bangladesh has accepted some of the key ILO conventions regarding forced labor, decent working time and equal remuneration whereas not adopted conventions on safe work environment, social security minimum standard etc. Additionally, these gaps block the alignment of labor laws with global perspective and restrain safeguards for informal workers. The study perceives remarkable deficiencies in legal coverage, enforcement, and international agreement with the suggestions of extending Bangladesh Labor Act’s protections to informal workers by ratifying related ILO conventions, and raising awareness about workers’ rights. Building up these frameworks is hard to ensuring equitable labor practices and achieving the Decent Work Agenda, fostering an inclusive labor market that upholds the dignity and rights of all workers in Bangladesh.
ঢাকা শহরের মুসলমান অধিবাসীদের প্রাত্যহিক জীবন (১৮৫৮-১৯৪৭)
This study examines the quotidian existence of the Muslim community in Dhaka during the transformative British period (1858-1947). It examines the interplay of tradition, adaptation and socio-economic shifts. Dietary habits reflected a blend of local agricultural produce, riverine resources and influences from broader Islamic culinary traditions, often varying by social class. The difference between the rich and poor is clearly noticeable in the materials used and styles of housing. Attire generally consisted of traditional Islamic garments with variations in fabric and ornamentation, indicating social standard. Some western elements were also blended into attire. Muslim religious and social festivals were celebrated under the patronage of the Nawab’s Palace Ahsan Manzil. The dominant language was Bengali, often with regional dialects and a notable presence of Urdu and Persian. From this article, we will able to learn about these important aspects of the daily life of the Muslim in Dhaka during this period.
History of Muslim Residents in Dhaka City (1858-1947)
Sino-Bangla Relation During the Ilyas Shahi Rule (1342-1487)
The systematic study of intercontinental relations between different counties with Bengal in the medieval history is comparatively recent in India and Bangladesh. It is now generally agreed that without a proper study of the local and regional history, no correct study of the national history is possible. Again, the local and regional history though undoubtedly a part of a national history has its own political, economic, social, cultural and religious characteristics. China-Bangladesh relations are in general regarded stable in the literature, and the causes of stability in bilateral relations are inadequately explained often by overemphasizing the geopolitics of bilateral relations. Nonetheless, the geo-economics of China-Bangladesh relations is as significant as the geopolitics of the relations for both the current state of affairs in bilateral relations and their future. This article focuses on Sino-Bangla relations during the Ilyas Shahi rule (1342-1487. Primarily from the geopolitical and geo-economical perspectives, it explores the implications of the political and economic relations for bilateral economic relations, in particular, between China and Bangladesh, and, for bilateral relations in general between the two states.
Abu Tammam, an influential Arab poet of the Abbasid era, is best known for his masterpiece, the Diwan Hamasa. Born in Syria in the 9th century CE, Abu Tammam displayed exceptional poetic talent from a young age. His Diwan Hamasa is a collection of poems that celebrates courage, heroism, and noble virtues, recounting the lives and exploits of legendary Arab warriors and chieftains. The Diwan Hamasa stands as a testament to Abu Tammam's poetic brilliance and his ability to evoke deep emotions through his verses. It pays homage to the rich history and traditions of the Arab people, highlighting the values of loyalty, sacrifice, and resilience. Abu Tammam's mastery of language and his skillful use of metaphors and rhythmic structures set a new standard for poetic excellence, shaping the development of Arabic literature and influencing generations of poets. Even centuries after his passing, Abu Tammam's Diwan Hamasa remains an enduring testament to the power of poetry to capture the essence of human experience and elevate it to the realm of art. Its verses continue to inspire and resonate with readers, carrying the spirit of heroism and honor across generations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rajshahi University Journal of Arts & Law https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Nature of Wahi in Islam and Judaism: A Comparative Review
This comparative review examines the concept of Wahi (revelation) in Islam and Judaism, exploring its nature, process, and theological significance in both traditions. In Islam, Wahi is central to the belief in God's guidance through prophets, with the Qur'an being the ultimate manifestation of this revelation. Judaism also emphasizes divine communication, primarily through the Torah and the role of prophets, although the nature and medium of these revelations differ in key aspects from Islamic views. The study highlights similarities, such as the belief in a transcendent God communicating His will, and contrasts in understanding the method and scope of revelation. The article further delves into the historical development of prophetic traditions and the role of scripture in shaping religious law and practice in both faiths. By comparing the theological nuances of Wahi, this review aims to offer deeper insights into the shared and unique features of these Abrahamic faiths.
The eulogy of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Andalusian Arabic poetry represents a rich literary tradition that flourished in medieval Muslim Spain, known as Al-Andalus. This abstract delves into the nuanced expressions of reverence and admiration for the Prophet within the vibrant tapestry of Andalusian Arabic poetry. Andalusian poets, deeply steeped in Islamic spirituality and poetic sophistication, crafted verses that exalted the character, virtues, and teachings of Prophet Muhammad. Through intricate linguistic devices, vivid imagery, and profound symbolism, they portrayed the Prophet as the embodiment of divine guidance, mercy, and wisdom, drawing inspiration from the Quranic revelations and Hadith literature. Andalusian poets employed various poetic forms such as zajals, muwashshahat, and kharjas to express their devotion to the Prophet, each characterized by its unique rhythmic patterns and literary conventions. These poems not only celebrated the spiritual significance of Prophet Muhammad but also served as moral beacons, advocating for justice, compassion, and ethical conduct in society. The article will highlight on the Arabic poetry in Spain and origin and development of Eulogy in this era.
মাক্কী ও মাদানী যুগে যাকাত: আল-কুরআনের আলোকে একটি পর্যালোচনা
Allah Ta'ala has sent numerous Prophets and Messengers throughout the ages with the aim of enlightening the misguided mankind with the light of guidance. After that, various heavenly texts were revealed to them. Among these books, the best and greatest book is Al-Qur'anul Kareem. The book was revealed by Allah Ta'ala in accordance with the needs of His beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during the long twenty-three years of his prophetic life. As a result, certain laws of Islam were revealed at Makkah and some laws were revealed at Madinah. Zakat, one of the pillars of Islam, was also revealed in both the Makki and Madani eras. That is, some laws were revealed in Makkah before the migration of the Prophet (PBUH) and some laws were introduced in Madinah after the migration. So the scholars are on difference of opinion that whether the law of Zakat being obligatory was revealed in Makkah or Madinah. In this article, an attempt has been made to review the verses related to Zakat revealed in the Makki and Madani period.
নিস্তারিণী দেবীর সেকেলে কথা: উনিশ শতকের নারী জীবনের দাহনযন্ত্রণা
The 19th century is quite significant in reviewing the history of the progress of Bengali women in undivided India. The caste system, the practice of Sati, the practice of child marriage, the practice of male polygamy, illiteracy, superstition, the dominance of feudal values, and the indifference of society and family towards women's education were the characteristics of that era. However, through the introduction of education and various social reform programs, Indian social reformers tried to enlighten the women of Bengal. This article pays special attention to the statements made by women about their own social status about themselves and other women in their own eyes. Although most of the Bengali uneducated women at this time were less aware of themselves. However, there were some women who opened up about their situation and expressed some things in their memoirs. Which were later published. Nistarini Devi is one such woman, whose memoirs were published under the name 'Sekele Katha'. Here she talked about her personal life, experiences and various issues of society. Sometimes she also expressed her opinions on various customs of society. In this article, I have tried to shed light on the harsh reality of Nistarini Devi's own life, the position of women in 19th century Bengal, social evils and the role of social reformers with the help of her memoirs. I have highlighted the social context of the time by showing the reactions of other contemporary Bengali women in these discussions. The main purpose of this article is to raise and explain these issues.
The Agony of Women’s Lives in the 19th Century
The Mahabharata is considered an epic, but its historical value is undeniable. The narrative, which has long been studied as an aural scripture, traces the history of Indian civilization from its inception to the development of urban life. In this sense, the structure of the social system of that time has been detailed in the book. One of the phases of this transitional period of society is the ‘Varnashram’ custom. Which is a combination of the words ‘Varna’ and ‘Ashram’ have both literal and philosophical meanings. Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras– the four classes in this case, refer to ‘Varna’, and ‘Ashram’ means the four stages of caste-centered lifestyle: Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha and Sannyas. The social system of that time was regulated through this system. In this context, the Mahabharata is one of the principal sources of Indian social records. This essay, therefore, aims to analyze the social systems evolved through castes and ashrams over time with reference to the Mahabharata.
The Society of the Mahabharata: Caste and Social Order
দ্বিতীয় বিশ্বযুদ্ধে তুস্কের নিরপেক্ষতা ও বৃহৎ শক্তির চাপ
The official name of Turkiye is the Republic of Turkiye. Turkiye is an important country in terms of geographical location. Turkiye comprises the entirety of the Anatolian Peninsula in south-west Asia and parts of the Southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula in south-east Europe. This area was very important from the point of view of military location. Throughout the history of human civilization, Turkiye has served as a bridge for the movement of people between Asia and Europe. Turkiye was a neutral country at the beginning of the Second World War. Because of its strategic importance, both the Allies and the Central Powers sought to recruit Turkiye to their side at the start of the Second World War. At that time, the Allies and Axis Powers invested in Turkiye to attract the country to their side. The Turkish general public and military officials were unwilling to participate in the Second World War. So it can be said that Turkiye was completely neutral in the Second World War. Turkiye did not participate in any groups.
রবীন্দ্রযুগের চার কবি: উপনিবেশিত মনের অন্বেষা
Initiated by Henry Louis Vivian Derozio in the first half of the 19th century, Anglo-Bangla poetry acquired a thoroughly colonial form in the second half of the 19th century. Michael Madhusudan Dutta and Biharilal Chakraborty later devoted themselves wholeheartedly to the colonial spirit. Rabindranath Tagore was their principal successor. Despite being driven by the West's colonial romantic spirit, he is the greatest poet of the Bangla language at the pinnacle of his creative thoughts and experience. Although he is not comparable to anyone in talent and creative works, several poets became quite famous during their lifetime in the first phase of Rabindra's era, that is, in the second half of the 19th century. Having remarkable expertise in European language and literature, some of them have strengthened the colonial future of Bengali poetry by presenting Western ideas in an Indian context according to the trend of the time. Surendranath Majumdar, Debendranath Sen, Akshay Kumar Baral and Dwijendralal Roy are among those poets with colonial disposition. This article mainly aims to assess the extent of colonization in their thinking.
স্পেনের কবি ইবন যায়দূন ও তাঁর কাব্যে বিষয়বৈচিত্র্য
Muslims ruled Spain for 781 years (711-1492). They established Spain as the center of education, culture, science and civilization in Europe at that time. They contributed to every branch of literature. They embraced Arabic as their spoken and literary language. In that era, numerous poets, writers and scholars made significant contributions to various branches of Arabic literature. Ibn Zaidun is one of the most famous poets of Spain. He is better known as a poet because of his extraordinary contribution to prose as well as poetry. The Poet's life has a significant impact on his poetry. His first love inspired him to write love poems. He showed extraordinary mastery in love poetry. Later, during his imprisonment he sought the favor of the Caliph and contributed to the composition of poems in his praise. One of the notable events his in life is joining politics and becoming a minister. Being a politician and efficient administrator, he held ministerial duties several times. His poetry has impact on the political situation of his time which is remarkable. The nature of Spain is revealed in Ibn Zaidun's poetry. He presents a uniquely simple poetic form combining love with nature. He is called the poet of love and nature as his poems have a wonderful blend of love and nature. His poetry is so rich in rhetoric, art and variety topic that it inspired many western poets. Ibn Zaiduns contribution to Arabic literature in Spain is ever-remembered with dignity and sincerity.
১৯৪৩ সালের বাংলার দুর্ভিক্ষ: আর্থ-সামাজিক সংকট
The Bengal Famine of 1943 was a devastating man-made disaster that resulted in millions of deaths due to starvation, disease, and social upheaval. Triggered by British colonial policies, World War II disruptions, and a series of natural calamities, the famine disproportionately affected the rural population, particularly agricultural laborers and sharecroppers. The British government’s failure to provide adequate food relief and the hoarding of rice by traders exacerbated the crisis. The famine highlighted the vulnerability of Bengal’s economy, which had been suffering from rapid population growth and inadequate agricultural development. Despite external aid offers, the British administration’s negligence and prioritization of military needs over humanitarian concerns contributed to the severity of the disaster.
Conradian East and Gender Dynamics: An Ecofeminist Reading of Conrad’s Almayer’s Folly
The early writings of Conrad, especially his tales like Almayer’s Folly, significantly revolve around an exoticized eastern setting – primarily, the Malay Archipelago – where the interaction between native and foreign characters plays a commanding role. Framing the female characters with alluring, inferior, and oriental attributes, Conrad, wittingly or unwittingly, amalgamates and exoticizes nature and women of the East, depicting them as intertwined and subjugated “Other”. Whereas this paper acknowledges that the act of avoiding Eurocentric binaries on the part of a white writer almost succumbs to a failure, it also speculates Conrad’s conscious effort to disinherit the dominant orientalist zeitgeist. Deciphering the colonial biases that are imposed upon both Eastern women and nature, alongside the ambiguous position of Conrad as a writer, this paper intends to attempt an ecofeminist reading of Conrad’s debut novel, Almayer’s Folly. Through the lens of various strands of ecofeminist thought, this study will be able to add a set of new ideas to the ongoing discussions on gender, ecology, and colonial discourse in colonial literature.
সেভার্স ও লুজান চুক্তি: একটি তুলনামূলক পর্যালোচনা
The treaties of Sevres and Lausanne hold immense significance in the history of Turkey. After World War I, the victorious Allied Powers imposed a humiliating treaty – the treaty of Sevres – on defeated Turkey, which left the country cornered in geographical, political, economic and military terms. In this extremely difficult time for Turkey, Mustafa Kemel Pasha emerged as a savior. Under his leadership, the Turkish nationalist forces rejected the treaty of Sevres and began a movement, which eventually led the Allied Powers, under changing circumstances, to sign the comparatively lenient treaty of Lausanne with Turkey. This was a compromise agreement between the two parties. As a result of this treaty, Turkey was saved from humiliation and disgrace, its rightful claims were realized, and its independence and sovereignty were recognized. The Allied Powers’ diplomacy suffered a defeat and nationalist government dominance was established in Turkish–populated regions. Upon the ruins of the decaying Ottoman Empire, the modern Republic of Turkey was built.
English Legal Terminologies in Bengali: Convergence and Divergence in Equivalence
The formation of English legal terminologies in Bengali began as a colonial project during the late 18th century in Bengal, and this terminographic process is advanced with the help of the Bengali writers, lexicographers, terminologists and authoritative language institutions. The objective of this paper is to explore convergence and divergence of English legal terminologies in Bengali in the context of equivalence relations against the backdrop of lexicography, terminography and translation studies. The study is a qualitative research under a descriptive framework based on content analysis and critical interpretive analysis of a range of legal terminologies in English and their equivalents or counterparts in Bengali. This study addresses the question of whether and how language contact with its transliteration and translation strategies actuates convergence and divergence phenomena between the two languages in a particular domain. The findings show that equivalence relations of English legal terminologies in Bengali have changed with historical trajectories, sociolinguistic realities and cultural dimensions of the Bengali legal language and its development.
Convergence and Divergence in Equivalence
হুনায়ন ইবন ইসহাক: অনুবাদকর্ম ও চিকিৎসা বিজ্ঞানে তাঁর অবদান
Hunayn ibn Ishaq was a Nestorian Christian scholar and scientist from Hirat. He was also an eminent translator of the Abbasid period. The translation work of ‘Baitul Hikma’ was carried out under his supervision. Due to which he was awarded the title of ‘Sheikh of Translators’. His contribution to the Arabization of Greek science has left the world forever indebted. Although he had a reputation as a translator, he was also a medical scientist. He has made significant contributions to the field of ophthalmology by writing books. Hunain established himself as a knowledgeable, reliable and skilled translator through hard work. Travelling widely, he collected an informative collection of Greek manuscripts. Later, in translating those manuscripts, he tried with great care to translate them in the most informative way, which has made him especially memorable in the pages of history.
The Politics of (In)sanity: Elif Shafak’s The Saint of Incipient Insanities and 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World
What is insanity? Is it only a psychological state or a discourse designed and established as something indubitable, unquestionable to serve the power? Elif Shafak’s novels, The Saint of Incipient Insanities (2004) and 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World (2019) question and re-envision the existing concepts of sanity and insanity. Perhaps insanity is not simply a mental illness disconnected from social and cultural realities and politics. These concepts of sanity and insanity are often hegemonically created and propagated by several dominant groups in different power relations so that the hierarchical unjust structure can function smoothly. Sometimes, the demarcation between sanity and insanity is merely the demarcation between the dominant and the dominated. Insanity can be the result of different kinds of oppression but very often it is only a label for those who are against the grain. Any kind of nonconformity or difference is seen as a potential threat to the existing power-paradigm. Questioning the naturalised conventions, holding different opinions from what are considered as normal/ truth and raising voice against the customary crimes are considered insanity in societies. Whether such actions and responses are insane or it is just the obsession for a uniformed society that tries to label any forms of deviance from the structure as insanity — is the vital question that this paper tries to explore in the light of Shafak’s fiction.
The Saint of Incipient Insanities and 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World
ইতিহাসের মানদণ্ডে আল-ওয়া’দুল হাক্ক: একটি পর্যালোচনা
The Egyptian famous novelist Dr. Taha Hussain’s novel “Al Wadul Haq” was published on 1939 in Bairut. It is an everlasting novel in the history of Arabic literature. This novel is based on historical events of the Islamic era. All the characters in the novel are real and historical. Certain aspects are imagined in the novel. As a result unity, events and dialogues are described. The novel also mentions the brutality of Meccan infidels on Muslims. It describes the emigration of Muslims to Ethiopia and Medina, the Battle of Badr, and beauties of Islamic brotherhood among the Muslims of Medina. Apart from this, the success of the weak, helpless and oppressed Muslims has been correctly expressed. The success of the faithful, the results of God’s promises to them is also highlighted. The novel became very popular with readers and is hailed as an informative novel based on history in Arabic literature. The present time demands an unbiased study to judge the accuracy of the information presented in the novel against the backdrop of history.
Mahmud Darwish (d. 2008 AD) is a renowned figure in modern Arabic literature. He is also considered the poet of resistance in Palestine for his significant poetic contribution to the Palestinian liberation movement and protest against Israeli Jewish aggression. In the 19th century, the Jewish community began to occupy different areas of Palestine from the Arab Muslim citizens. After the announcement of Israel as an independent state in the Mid-20th century they began innumerable atrocities and violence on the Palestinian citizens. Most Palestinian poets and writers are greatly influenced by the Palestine-Israel conflict, especially Mahmoud Darwish. The riveting of freedom from Palestinian people, and pushing thousands of Palestinian citizens into an identity crisis make him concerned, worried, pained and impatient. Being the Palestine issue an important and highly relevant topic to him, he closely observed the Palestine-Israel conflict and impartially tried to present the oppressive views of Israeli government against the Palestinian people in his poems. He also tried to find out the causes which played significant roles in changing the lifestyle of Palestinian citizens during the Israeli violence. In this regard, his poems play a notable contribution and role by giving essential instructions to the nation for taking effective action to stop Israeli oppression in Palestine. Actually, his poem helps the Palestinian people to rise up against Israeli aggression and encourages them to overcome all obstacles and sacrifice themselves to achieve liberation. The main objects of this research are to discuss the real picture of violence against humanity happened in Palestine by the Israeli government and try to analyze the impact of Israeli torture and injustice on the Palestinian people written in the poetry of Mahmoud Darwish. Besides this, another goal of this research is to evaluate his role in resolving the Palestinian-Israeli crisis. This unbiased research work will benefit all the researchers, advanced readers, scholars, and a large number of general people who are interested in Palestine.