Jadunath Sarkar
Sir Jadunath Sarkar, born on December 10, 1870, into a Vaishnava Varendra-Kayastha family in Karachmaria, Rajshahi district, Bengal, hailed from a background steeped in both cultural and educational values. His father, Rajkumar, a landlord and estate manager, instilled in him the foundations of a rich upbringing. Jadunath’s educational journey commenced in Karachmaria, Rajshahi town, and Calcutta, culminating in his matriculation from Rajshahi Collegiate School in 1887, where he secured the sixth rank in the University of Calcutta.
He continued his academic pursuits at Rajshahi College, passing the intermediate First Arts examination in 1889, and later joined Presidency College, Calcutta. In February 1891, he graduated with honors in History and English, ranking second in the University. The following year, he excelled in his M.A. examinations in English, earning a gold medal.
[expander_maker id=”3″ more=”Read more” less=”Close”]Career and Publications:
Jadunath Sarkar’s professional journey began in March 1893 at Ripon College, Calcutta, and he later joined the Bengal Provincial Educational Service in 1898. Most of his career (1898-1917) was spent at Patna College, where his focus shifted exclusively to the History Department from 1908 onwards. In 1917, he became the Head of the History Department at Benaras Hindu University, eventually being promoted to the Indian Educational Service.
His extensive literary contributions commenced with the publication of “India of Aurangzib” in 1901, marking the beginning of his lifelong study of Mughal India. Over the next five decades, he established himself as an authority on 17th and 18th century India, with notable works such as “History of Aurangzib,” “Shivaji and His Times,” “Fall of the Mughal Empire,” and “Military History of India,” among others.
Literary Methodology and Contributions:
Sarkar’s methodology was deeply influenced by critical historiography, drawing inspiration from European historians like Ranke, Niebuhr, and Mommsen. He considered history-writing as a literary pursuit and referred to his research as his “literary work.” His passion for Sanskrit and English literature was evident throughout his life, contributing regularly to Bangla periodicals and journals.
Formation of Professional Circles:
Jadunath Sarkar formed close professional relationships, notably with William Irvine and Govind Sakharam Sardesai. After Irvine’s death, Sarkar completed and published Irvine’s magnum opus, “The Later Mughals.” His collaboration with Sardesai resulted in the publication of the “English Records of Maratha History.”
Honors:
Acknowledging his scholarly achievements, Sarkar received numerous honors, including the Griffith Prize, membership in the Indian Historical Records Commission, and honorary memberships in prestigious societies. He was knighted in 1929 and received D.Litt. (Honoris Causa) from the University of Dhaka in 1936. Commemorative volumes were published in 1949 and 1950, while his significant contributions were recognized with a life and letters commemoration volume in 1957.
Legacy and Final Years:
Jadunath Sarkar’s lasting legacy is preserved at his residence at 10 Lake Terrace, where he spent his final years immersed in academic research and writing. The Jadunath Sarkar Gallery now commemorates his groundbreaking work. He peacefully passed away in his study on the ground floor on May 19, 1958. [/expander_maker]
