Dutta, Hirendranath

Dutta, Hirendranath (1860-1942) philosopher, scholar, and politician, was born on 16 January 1868 at Hathkhola in Kolkata, son of Dwarakanath. Hirendranath studied at Metropolitan School. He completed BA and MA in English literature from Presidency College. After acquiring BL degree he joined the Calcutta High Court, winning considerable fame in the Aurobindo case and the Shamsul Alam murder case.

During 1894-1920, Hirendranath participated in most political movements of the time. He was involved with Anne Besant in the 'Home Rule' movement. He was co-founder with Madanmohan Malabya of the hindu mahasabha. He had no confidence in Gandhi's policy of non-violence, and when Gandhi rose to prominence in the Congress, he left active politics.

Hirendranath helped found Banga Laksmi Cotton Mill, National Bank, Hindustan Insurance. He was one of the founders of the vangiya sahitya parishad, and for three years served its secretary and president. He was also president of the Bengal Theosophical Society. He edited two journals, Pantha and Brahma Bidya. Among his published books are Gitay Ishvarvad, Upanisade Brahmatattva, Jagadgurur Abirbhab, Narir Nirbachan Adhikar, Mahadev, Avatartattva, Vedanta Parichay, Budhadever Nastikata, Yajvyavalker Advaitavad, Prem Dharma, Ras Lila, Sangkhya Parichay, Buddhi O Bodhi, Darshanik Bankimchandra, Upanisad, Jara O Jivatattva, Karmavad O Janmantarvad, etc. He also translated Meghdut, a Sanskrit epic by kalidasa. He was awarded the Jagattarini Gold Medal by the university of calcutta. Hirendranath died on 16 September 1942. [Badiuzzaman]