In Memory—Literary Scholar Prabodh Chandra Sen

Prabodh Chandra Sen stands as a distinguished figure in Bengali literature, renowned for his exceptional contributions to the study of prosody, as well as for his work as a Rabindra scholar, historian, and cultural analyst. His intellectual legacy continues to guide researchers in the fields of Bengali literary criticism and metrical analysis.

Born on 27 April 1897 in Moinamati village of Comilla district, he displayed academic brilliance from an early age. He completed his secondary education at Comilla Zilla School and higher secondary studies at Comilla Victoria College with notable distinction. Later, he pursued higher education at the University of Calcutta, where he completed a Master’s degree in Ancient Indian History and Culture, securing first class first position along with a gold medal—an achievement that reflected his extraordinary scholarly aptitude.

His professional life was dedicated to teaching and research. At the invitation of Rathindranath Tagore, the son of Rabindranath Tagore, he joined Visva-Bharati University as a teacher. This phase marked a significant expansion of his academic work, particularly in the study of Bengali prosody and literary structure.

Prabodh Chandra Sen made pioneering contributions to the systematic study of Bengali metre. He helped establish a theoretical framework and introduced terminologies that brought structure and clarity to the field. His major works on prosody include Chhanda-Parikrama, Chhanda-Jiggasa, Bangla Chhande Rabindranather Dan, Bangla Chhanda-Chintar Kromobikash, and Nutan Chhanda-Parikrama. These works remain foundational texts in Bengali literary studies. He also played a significant role in editing Rabindranath Tagore’s work on prosody.

Beyond prosody, Sen wrote extensively on history, culture, and literature. His notable works include Dharmojayi Ashok, Ramayana O Bharatiya Sanskriti, Bharat-Pothik Rabindranath, Bharatatma Kabi Kalidas, and Bharatborsher Jatiyo Sangeet. These writings reflect his deep understanding of Indian civilisation and cultural heritage, blending historical insight with literary interpretation.

In his personal life, he was known for his disciplined lifestyle, intellectual integrity, and liberal humanistic values. His work ethic and clarity of thought were reflected not only in his writings but also in his academic conduct and teaching methods.

Prabodh Chandra Sen passed away on 20 September 1986. His contributions to Bengali literature, especially in the field of prosody and literary criticism, remain invaluable. He continues to be remembered as a pioneering scholar whose work laid the foundation for modern Bengali metrical studies.