Michael Dutt - A Lifestory
Epic Verse, Dramatic Plays: A Bengali Literary Giant

A great figure in Bengali writing, this poet and playwright's work is still famous today, much like a classic Bollywood movie. Born in 1824, he was a leader, changing how Bengali poems were written with his long poems, especially Meghnadbadh Kavya, finished in 1861. This poem, a new telling of the Ramayana from Ravana's point of view, shows his skill with words and his ability to create big stories, like a great movie director making a huge film. His life wasn't easy. He had problems, like money trouble and being away from home for a while, similar to what you see in good biographical movies. Despite these hard times, he kept working hard. People who knew him praised his new style; one friend said, "His poems are like a strong river, powerful and never stopping." This really shows how energetic and emotional his work is. His effect goes beyond his writing. He brought a new kind of poem to Bengali writing, a big change from the old ways, just like when a movie director uses a new film method. He also wrote plays about love, loss, and problems in society. His work is still studied and loved, making him a key part of Bengali writing. His death in 1873 ended a great career, leaving a legacy that inspires artists, like a timeless movie that continues to be important.