Priyanath Bose, who founded Great Bengal Circus, died on this day. He was 55.
His father was a poet, playwright and nationalist.
Bose attended Metropolitan Institution. But he was more interested in sports and physical culture than in studies.
He became an excellent gymnast and also an instructor at various akhadas (traditional Indian gymnasiums).
Inspired by the performances of Wilson’s Great World Circus and other foreign circuses in Kolkata, Bose wanted to set up a circus of his own, with Bengalis.
In 1887, he formally launched Great Bengal Circus.
He painstakingly selected gymnasts, acquired animals and equipment. His circus was remarkable for including Bengali women as performers. Sushila Sundari and Mrinmoyee appeared as striking female heroes, taming lions and tigers.
The circus featured juggling, trapeze acts, gymnastics and performing animals.
First, Bose toured Bengal and other Indian cities. He was invited by many princely states.
As his fame spread, he travelled to south-east Asian countries, including Singapore.
He was also known as Professor Bose after being addressed by Viceroy Lord Dufferin as “Professor”.