Development of Printing Press in Bengal

Introduction: The advent of the printing press in 19th century Bengal marked a transformative era in the dissemination of knowledge and the growth of commercial enterprise. This discussion examines the development of the printing press in Bengal, its profound impact on the spread of information, and its emergence as a viable commercial venture. Special emphasis will be placed on the pioneering initiatives undertaken by Upendrakishore Roychoudhury and his establishment, U. Roy & Sons, in shaping this landscape.

The Flourishing of the Printing Press in Bengal

The introduction of the printing press to Bengal, initially driven by the needs of the colonial administration and Christian missionaries, underwent a significant expansion and localization in the 19th century. This growth played a pivotal role in reshaping the intellectual and commercial fabric of the region.

Early Stages and Expansion: The late 18th century witnessed the initial establishment of printing presses, with figures like James Augustus Hicky and the Serampore Baptist Mission Press playing crucial roles. The 19th century saw a surge in the number of printing presses owned and operated by Bengalis. This localization facilitated the publication of a wider range of materials catering to local needs and interests.
The Nexus of Print and Knowledge Dissemination: The printing press revolutionized the way knowledge was accessed and circulated. Books, newspapers, journals, and pamphlets became more readily available and affordable, breaking down traditional barriers to information. This facilitated:
- Educational Advancement: The printing of textbooks and educational materials supported the burgeoning education system, reaching a larger student population.
- Literary Growth: Authors found a wider audience for their works, leading to a flourishing of Bengali literature across various genres.
- Social and Religious Reform Movements: Reformist organizations utilized printed materials to propagate their ideas, engage in public debates, and mobilize support for social change.
- Rise of Public Opinion: Newspapers and journals became powerful tools for shaping public discourse, fostering political awareness, and articulating nationalist sentiments.
The Commercial Viability of Printing: As the demand for printed materials grew, printing emerged as a lucrative commercial venture. Bengali entrepreneurs established printing presses and publishing houses, catering to the increasing need for books, periodicals, and other printed items. This commercial aspect spurred innovation in printing techniques and the expansion of the industry. The publication of popular literature, schoolbooks, and religious texts proved particularly profitable.

Upendrakishore Roychoudhury and U. Roy & Sons: Pioneers of Quality Printing

Upendrakishore Roychoudhury (1863-1915) was a polymath of Bengal, excelling as a writer, artist, musician, and a groundbreaking entrepreneur in the printing industry. His contributions, and those of his esteemed establishment, U. Roy & Sons, were instrumental in elevating the standards of printing in Bengal and beyond.

Upendrakishore’s Innovative Initiatives:
- Introduction of Modern Block-Making Techniques: Upendrakishore was a pioneer in introducing advanced block-making technologies to South Asia, including halftone and color block printing. He mastered these techniques by importing equipment and chemicals from England, ensuring high-quality reproduction of illustrations in his publications.
- Founding of “Sandesh” Magazine: In 1913, he launched “Sandesh,” a children’s magazine that became a landmark in Bengali literature. The magazine was notable not only for its engaging content but also for its exceptional printing quality.
- Technological Innovation in Printing: Upendrakishore was deeply involved in experimenting with and improving printing technologies. His invention of the “screen-adjusting machine” significantly enhanced the automated focusing of process cameras, showcasing his technical acumen.
- International Recognition for Printing Research: His research papers on block-making and printing were published in the prestigious British “Penrose Annual Volume,” earning him international acclaim in the field of printing technology.
The Enduring Legacy of U. Roy & Sons:
- Establishment of a State-of-the-Art Printing Press: In 1914, Upendrakishore established U. Roy & Sons in Kolkata, a printing press equipped with the latest technology. The press quickly gained a reputation for its superior printing quality and its ability to accurately reproduce images and colors.
- A Successful Commercial Enterprise: U. Roy & Sons was not merely a technological marvel; it was also a successful commercial venture. It catered to a wide range of printing needs, including books and periodicals, and was the primary publisher of “Sandesh” magazine. The commitment to quality ensured a steady stream of clientele and established the firm as a leader in the Bengali printing industry.
- Fostering Talent and Continuing the Tradition: Upendrakishore ensured the continuation of his legacy by sending his son, Sukumar Ray, to England to acquire advanced knowledge in printing technology. Sukumar Ray subsequently took over the editorial and publishing responsibilities of “Sandesh” and further enhanced the reputation of U. Roy & Sons. The family’s contribution to Bengali culture and the printing industry is further cemented by Upendrakishore’s grandson, the renowned filmmaker Satyajit Ray.

The development of the printing press in 19th century Bengal was a pivotal moment that spurred the dissemination of knowledge and fostered the growth of commercial enterprise. Upendrakishore Roychoudhury and his visionary initiatives through U. Roy & Sons played a transformative role in this evolution. By introducing cutting-edge printing technologies and prioritizing quality, they not only elevated the standards of the printing industry in Bengal but also contributed significantly to the flourishing of Bengali literature and intellectual life. Their legacy underscores the powerful intersection of technological innovation, commercial acumen, and cultural enrichment in shaping the socio-intellectual landscape of Bengal.