Bengal
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Bengal is a region in South Asia. It is divided between two countries: Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal. The region has a rich history, culture, and tradition. The people of Bengal are called Bengali people, and their language is Bengali.
Geography
Bengal is located in the eastern part of the Indian subcontinent. The Ganges River and Brahmaputra River flow through the region, creating fertile plains. The Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest, is in Bengal.
History
Bengal has a long history dating back thousands of years. Some key periods include:
- Ancient Bengal: Ruled by kingdoms like the Maurya Empire and the Gupta Empire.
- Medieval Bengal: Known for its Islamic sultanates and later the Mughal Empire.
- British Bengal: Bengal was an important region under British India.
- In 1947, Bengal was divided during the Partition of India, creating East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and West Bengal (part of India).
Culture
Bengal is known for its:
- Literature: Famous writers include Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam.
- Music and dance: Bengal has a rich tradition of classical music, folk songs, and dances.
- Festivals: The region celebrates many festivals, such as Durga Puja and Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year).
- Cuisine: Popular dishes include fish curry, rice, and sweets like rosogolla and sandesh.
Economy
Bengal's economy is based on agriculture, industry, and trade. Key crops include rice, jute, and tea. Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is a major economic center in West Bengal.