Mayurabhanja Bhugola, authored by Surendra Nath Sen and published in 1900, stands as a monumental contribution to the field of geography in Odisha, India. As one of the early comprehensive texts in the Odia language on geographical studies, this work is not merely an academic treatise but also a cultural artifact that reflects the socio-political and environmental context of the time.
Surendra Nath Sen, a luminary in the literary and educational landscape of Odisha, skillfully blended scientific knowledge with local context in Mayurabhanja Bhugola. During a period when India was grappling with colonial rule, Sen’s work served as a vital tool for awakening awareness about the environment, geography, and resources of the region. The book focuses primarily on the Mayurbhanj district, an area renowned for its rich natural landscapes, biodiversity, and cultural diversity.
Mayurbhanj’s geographical significance is profound; it is home to a variety of topographies, including hills, forests, rivers, and plains. The region not only informs the local economy through agriculture and forestry but also holds spiritual importance with its historical temples and tribal communities. Sen’s exploration of this diversity invites readers to appreciate the interdependencies between the environment and human life.
Mayurabhanja Bhugola is meticulously structured into various sections that address different aspects of geography. The work covers physical geography, including descriptions of landforms, climatic conditions, and natural resources, as well as human geography, delving into population distribution, cultural practices, and socioeconomic structures.
One of the standout features of this book is Sen’s emphasis on the relationship between geography and cultural identity. The interplay between the terrain and the traditional lifestyles of the indigenous groups inhabiting Mayurbhanj is intricately portrayed, showcasing how geography shapes social structures, livelihoods, and festivals. By documenting local customs and practices, Sen not only provides geographical insights but also preserves the rich heritage of the region.
The language used in Mayurabhanja Bhugola is significant as it reflects the evolution of Odia as a medium for academic discourse at the turn of the 20th century. Sen’s choice to write in Odia made geographical knowledge accessible to a broader audience, extending its reach beyond the elite scholars who predominantly engaged with English or other colonial languages. This democratization of knowledge was pivotal in promoting education and cultural pride among the Odia-speaking populace.
Books Info
| Books name | Mayurabhanja Bhugola / ମୟୁରଭଞ୍ଜ ଭୂଗୋଳ |
| Author | Surendra Nath Sen |
| No Of pages | 31 |
| Publisher | NA |
| Publication | 1900 |
| Printed At | The State Press |
| Distributor | NA |