The Documentary Podcast
Three Million: 8. Road to the past
Sep 1, 2024
Kavita Puri, an investigative journalist, embarks on a poignant journey to uncover the memories of the last survivors of the 1943 Bengal famine. She explores Kolkata's historical scars and travels through the countryside, seeking connection with those who faced unimaginable hardship. Puri unearths a surprising memorial, reflecting on the stark contrast between the past and present. Through touching personal stories, she emphasizes the urgent need to remember and confront the legacies of famine and suffering that still resonate today.
40:35
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Quick takeaways
- The personal narratives of famine survivors highlight the psychological scars that shape their behaviors and memories in contemporary life.
- The absence of memorialization for the Bengal famine victims reflects societal indifference towards historical traumas and the need for recognition.
Deep dives
The Bengal Famine's Impact on Lives
The Bengal famine during World War II led to the death of at least three million people, impacting the lives of countless survivors who were deeply affected by the hunger crisis. Many accounts reveal harrowing memories, such as a woman recalling the pain of witnessing mothers clutching their starving infants, unable to provide nourishment. The famine forced families to migrate from rural areas to cities like Calcutta in search of food, often leading to desperate situations where individuals resorted to begging or sharing scarce resources. Survivors highlight the stark contrast between city dwellers' oblivion to the famine's horrors and the intense suffering faced by those from the countryside.
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