Three Million

Kavita Puri, a journalist focused on the historical impact of the Bengal famine, journeys through India to uncover the voices of its last survivors. She juxtaposes Kolkata's vibrant present with haunting recollections of its tragic past. Kavita illuminates personal stories of resilience among those who endured the 1943 famine, striking a poignant balance between loss and hope. In her quest for a memorial for the three million victims, she discovers that the true commemoration lies in sharing these powerful narratives, which are often unheard.

Discover the lingering shadows of the Bengal famine, as a granddaughter unearths her grandfather's colonial ties and grapples with inherited shame. Hear a 97-year-old reveal his surprising role in the tragedy and explore how three generations of British Bengalis commemorate this dark chapter through art and memory. Personal stories intertwine with complex family histories, revealing the profound effects of colonialism on contemporary identities and the ongoing journey of understanding and healing.

Soylen Sarka, a dedicated teacher, has devoted his life to preserving the testimonies of Bengal Famine survivors. In this discussion, he uncovers the poignant memories of those who suffered immense loss and highlights the collective shame of society's amnesia surrounding this tragedy. The need for remembrance and justice resonates throughout the conversation, revealing ongoing struggles with hunger and historical recognition. Sarka’s work emphasizes the importance of honoring the past to ensure these vital stories are never forgotten.

Kavita uncovers rare cassette tapes revealing interviews with civil servants during the Bengal famine, shedding light on colonial responsibilities. The chaotic bureaucratic responses exacerbated the crisis, as imperial interests eclipsed urgent relief needs. Winston Churchill’s complex legacy comes under scrutiny, exposing troubling racial views amid wartime decisions. The podcast contrasts Britain's VE Day celebrations with the ongoing suffering in India, stressing the importance of confronting historical narratives and preserving the memories of those impacted by the famine.

Delve into the chilling censorship surrounding the Bengal famine during World War II. Discover how a British editor bravely defied colonial authorities to unveil the grim realities of suffering. Explore the emotional letters shared between soldiers and families, revealing personal tragedies amidst the crisis. Witness the media's role in exposing the truth, and learn about a pivotal House of Commons debate that forced the British government to acknowledge the famine. Finally, honor the forgotten lives lost, emphasizing individual stories against the backdrop of colonial neglect.

A young boy grapples with how much rice to share from a cigarette tin as hunger grips his community. The heart-wrenching stories of starvation emerge, revealing the dire choices faced by families in Bengal. Amidst chaos and conflict, acts of kindness shine through as a missionary establishes a relief hospital. The grim reality of Calcutta’s suffering contrasts sharply with the privileged lives of others, while a courageous newspaper editor risks it all to expose the truth. This poignant narrative captures the fight against colonial neglect and the quest for survival.

The podcast unearths the chilling tales of the Bengal Famine during World War II, where three million Indian lives were lost, yet remain unmemorialized. It dives into personal narratives that highlight the colonial neglect and media silence surrounding this tragedy. Calcutta’s vibrant war-time culture is explored, showcasing interactions between local inhabitants and Allied soldiers. Additionally, a 97-year-old woman's haunting recollections illuminate the human resilience in the face of unimaginable hardship.

The forgotten story of World War II: the Bengal famine in British India, where at least three million people died, told for the first time by the eyewitnesses to it.