Nibaran Chandra Dasgupta was one of the lesser-known yet influential figures in India’s freedom struggle. Born in Bikrampur, located in present-day Bangladesh, he devoted his life to the service of the nation and the upliftment of society. His career began in the field of education, where he served as the Headmaster of Purulia Zilla School. At that time, Purulia was a township in the district of Manbhum in the state of Bihar (now in West Bengal). Alongside his role as an educator, he also held the position of honorary District Magistrate of Purulia, reflecting the trust and respect he commanded in society.
Despite holding prestigious positions, Nibaran Chandra Dasgupta was deeply influenced by the rising nationalist movement in India. The growing call for independence inspired him to dedicate himself fully to the cause of freedom.
Participation in the Non-Cooperation Movement
A decisive turning point in his life came in 1921 when Mahatma Gandhi launched the Non-Cooperation Movement against British rule. Responding to the call of the national leadership, Nibaran Chandra Dasgupta made the courageous decision to resign from his secure government service. By leaving his post, he demonstrated his commitment to the larger goal of India’s independence.
His active participation in the movement led to his imprisonment by the colonial authorities. However, the experience of incarceration did not weaken his resolve. Instead, it strengthened his determination to work more actively for the nation after his release.
Establishment of Shilpashram in Purulia
Following his release from prison, Nibaran Chandra Dasgupta, along with Atul Chandra Ghosh, founded an institution called “Shilpashram.” Initially established on Deshbandhu Road and later permanently relocated to Telkalpara in Purulia town, Shilpashram was designed as a center for rural industry development within an ashram-based community lifestyle.
Shilpashram soon emerged as a major center of nationalist activities in the Manbhum region. It was not merely an economic initiative but also a social and political hub that supported the ideals of self-reliance and community development promoted during the freedom struggle. All Congress activities in the Manbhum district maintained a close association with Shilpashram.
The significance of the institution was further highlighted by the visits of prominent national leaders and freedom fighters such as Mahatma Gandhi, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad. Their presence reflected the importance of Shilpashram in the broader movement for India’s independence.
Contribution to Journalism and Language Movement
Nibaran Chandra Dasgupta also made a notable contribution to journalism. He founded and edited “Mukti,” the first Bengali bi-weekly newspaper published from the Manbhum district. The publication played an important role in spreading nationalist ideas and raising awareness among the people.
In addition to supporting the independence movement, “Mukti” also contributed significantly to the Language Agitation, known as the Bhasa Andolon. Through the newspaper, Dasgupta provided a platform for expressing regional and cultural concerns while promoting the ideals of national unity.
Legacy and Final Years
Nibaran Chandra Dasgupta lived a life marked by simplicity, dedication, and service. Like a sage devoted to a higher cause, he worked tirelessly for the welfare of his countrymen and the advancement of the nationalist movement in his region.
He spent his final years at Shilpashram, the institution he
had helped build into a symbol of resistance and social reform. On 17 July
1935, he passed away at Shilpashram in Purulia. His life remains a testament to
the role played by committed regional leaders in strengthening India’s struggle
for independence.
