Under the raj ; prostitution in colonial Bengal

Under the Raj explores the world of the prosti tute, seeking to understand the culture of the trade and its impact on society, in the changing reality of nineteenth century Bengal. Sumanta Banerjee outlines the class structure that emerged within the profession, examines popu lar perceptions of prostitution, and addresses questions of identity, autonomous space, collective consciousness and constructions of femininity within the prostitute community. In the process, he crafts a more supple and nuanced definition of the sociology of prostitution, moving beyond homogenizing or monolithic notions to reveal the diverse and often contradictory forces shaping commercial and social relations in colonial society.

Sumanta Banerjee draws from a diverse range of official and popular sources including - and what is significant here - the rich oral tradition and written accounts of the prostitutes themselves. Banerjee breaks new ground, situating prostitution in colonial Bengal at the intersection where different segments of the population-ranging from British soldiers to Indian workers-briefly converged. Under the Raj is a fascinating study and major contribution to ongoing research in cultural and feminist studies and critical theory. Prostitution in nineteenth century Bengal acquires relevance today as the heirs to this profession are themselves organizing in different parts of India to seek justice and demand rights, thus reviving the old debate over legalization or prohibition of their professional work.

Sumanta Banerjee, is best known for his The Simmering Revolution: The Naxalite Uprising and The Thema Book of Naxalite Poetry, two seminal texts on the Naxalite Revolt. His milestone study, The Parlour and the Streets: Elite and Popular Culture in Nineteenth Century Calcutta, was published by Seagull in 1989. He is presently based in New Delhi, doing research on the popular culture and religion of Bengal.