Why are All Bengalis Outside of Bengal Considered to Be from Kolkata?
I spent a considerable amount of time in Karnataka and was only familiar with Bangalore and Mangalore. I didn't even know what their language was, which highlights how little Indian travelers know about regions outside their own.
It's a common observation that Indians tend to limit their understanding to their own regions and often fail to travel extensively or mix well with other ethnicities. Therefore, many people unknowingly assume that all Bengalis are from the city of Kolkata.
P.S.:- I am indeed a Bengali, and many of my Kannadiga friends tend to refer to me as being from Kolkata, despite not being from this city.
The Human Failing of Simplification
It is a human failing to over-simplify or typify any entity to its most highlighted feature. Kolkata is undeniably a crucial part of Bengal, but the identity of the state extends far beyond just the city.
For many Bengalis, Kolkata is a central city and a symbol of a rich cultural heritage and a bustling metropolis. However, this centralization does not reflect the diversity and complexity of the Bengali cultural landscape.
The Scope of Bengali Identity Beyond Kolkata
Bengalis live in a vast and diverse region that spans beyond the borders of Bengal and the city of Kolkata. The state of West Bengal is just one part of the broader Bengali-speaking region that includes regions in Bangladesh, eastern India, and parts of Pakistan.
Historically, the Bengali-speaking region has had a rich cultural and linguistic unity, even though political and administrative boundaries have often fragmented this unity. Many Bengalis trace their roots to different parts of this expansive region, from the plains of Bangladesh to the hills of Darjeeling in West Bengal.
Challenges of Identity Beyond Borders
The over-simplification of Bengali identity to just those from Kolkata creates a number of challenges. The cultural, linguistic, and social diversity of Bengalis across different states and territories is often overlooked, leading to a misrepresentation of the broader community.
This can result in a lack of understanding and sometimes even discrimination against Bengalis from outside Kolkata. People from other parts of Bengal, such as Dhaka in Bangladesh or Agartala in Tripura, may face preconceived notions of what it means to be Bengali, leading to stereotypes based on the city of Kolkata.
Broader Perspectives on Bengali Identity
To truly understand Bengali identity, it is important to recognize the broader perspectives and the complexities within the community. From the bustling markets of Dhaka to the serene tea gardens of Darjeeling, each region brings its own unique cultural elements to the rich tapestry of Bengali life.
By valuing and understanding the diverse origins and contributions of Bengalis, we can foster a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of this rich culture. Commemorating the Kolkata-centric narrative does not negate the importance and value of other Bengali regions, but it should not overshadow them either.
Conclusion
While Kolkata is a significant cultural and historical center for Bengalis, it is only a part of the broader Bengali identity. It's crucial to recognize and appreciate the diverse identities and regions within the Bengali-speaking community to foster a greater understanding and respect for this rich cultural heritage.