PARTHA ROY, Kolkata: Governor of West Bengal & Patron of The Asiatic Society , Kolkata released a critically edited special journal based on the life & works of James Prinsep whose 225th Birth Anniversary is being celebrated by the Society on 16th December 2024 at Raj Bhavan in Kolkata.

At the outset of 19th century, a galaxy of young European personalities were commissioned in India by the East India Company who did profound work for exploring oriental wisdom and lost cultural heritage of India. Starting his career as Assay Master of Calcutta mint, James Prinsep (1799-1840) not only deciphered the Brahmi script but also threw light on the lost Indian wisdom be it science, language or ancient script. Prinsep assumed the position of the Secretary and the Editor of the Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal from 1832-1838. He used this platform to promote ground breaking research in the fields of chemistry, palaeontology, numismatic, epigraphy, natural sciences, architecture, census and more which were less known in the beginning of 19th Century. Journal of the Asiatic Society published under his leadership became a vital repository of knowledge disseminating intellectual exchanges between scholars across the globe. This Journal since 1832 despite various challenges continues to be published to this day.

This special issue on James Prinsep highlights his multifaceted genius, underscoring his enduring impact on Indian historiography, archeology and scientific research. Mr. Sanjiv Sanyal , Member of Economic Advisory Council of Prime Minister of Bharat was present during the journal release. Mr. Sanyal spoke on unifying role of Brahmi script amongst various scripts. Governor Bose highlighted role of James Prinsep in rediscovering rich cultural heritage of Bharat over thousands of years & documenting them for future generations of humanity.