For over fifty years, the author has journeyed through states of India, experiencing its vast diversity of people, places, and cultures. In bustling metro cities, Hindi and English often opened doors of communication. But in small towns and villages, the true spirit of India revealed itself through its regional languages—the everyday voices of warmth, tradition, and belonging.

This realization sparked a vision: to create a handbook of Indian languages, a practical series that equips travellers with the basics of India’s regional languages. Each book of the series helps readers connect authentically with locals, making travel not just about seeing places but about sharing conversations and building bonds.

This book of the series is dedicated to Bengali, the lyrical language of West Bengal. It is going to be your pocket companion to break language barriers and enrich your experience during your travel and stay.