Philip Hensher

Exploring the glorious literary heritage of Bengal

Bengalis are renowned for their love of discussion and argument, and a new collection of short stories reflects this passion for cultured conversation

Rabindranath Tagore, from a portrait by S.K. Hesh. [Getty Images] 
issue 11 May 2024

The first time I went to India, nearly 30 years ago, I was sent as a young novelist by the British Council. Unusually, my first encounter with the country was Kolkata, a city I loved instantly. At the first event, after I had finished reading, an audience member gently asked if I liked Indian novels.

GIF Image

Disagree with half of it, enjoy reading all of it

TRY 3 MONTHS FOR $5
Our magazine articles are for subscribers only. Start your 3-month trial today for just $5 and subscribe to more than one view

Comments

Join the debate for just £1 a month

Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for £3.

Already a subscriber? Log in