Words to Win – The Making of a Modern Autobiography

This work presents the autobiography of Rashundari Debi, an upper-caste rural housewife, reflecting on her life and bhakti beliefs in the nineteenth century, showcasing her desire for personal expression and public recognition. Words to Win is a significant exploration of women's experiences during that era.

Words to Win – The Making of a Modern Autobiography focuses on the life of Rashundari Debi, who made history as the author of the first full-length autobiography in Bengali, titled Amar Jiban (My Life). Written in the early nineteenth century, this groundbreaking work offers a unique perspective on the challenges and experiences faced by women of that era. Rashundari, who became a mother at eighteen and had eleven children by the age of forty-one, reflects on her personal journey while navigating the evolving societal norms around her.

Throughout her autobiography, Rashundari explores her understanding of bhakti beliefs, which emphasize devotion and spirituality. Her reflections provide insight into her inner life, as well as the cultural and religious transformations occurring in nineteenth-century India. The narrative captures both her individual struggles and the broader context of women's roles during this period, making it a significant contribution to the understanding of Indian history.

Words to Win includes translations of key sections from Rashundari's autobiography, highlighting her desire to assert her identity and share her story with the world. The book illustrates her determination to carve out a space for herself in a society that often marginalized women's voices. First published in 1999, this reissued edition in paperback format continues to resonate with readers interested in the complexities of gender, culture, and history in India.