Toru Dutt Biography – Who is Toru Dutt? Toru Dutt, born Tarulatta Datta, was an Indian Bengali poet and translator who made significant contributions to Indo-Anglian literature. Known for her poignant poetry and translations, Dutt’s work continues to inspire literary enthusiasts. This biography explores her life, achievements, and untimely death.
Toru Dutt Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tarulatta Datta (Toru Dutt) |
| Age at Death | 21 years |
| Date of Birth | 4 March 1856 |
| Date of Death | 30 August 1877 |
| Cause of Death | Tuberculosis |
| Tribe | Indian Bengali |
| Notable Works | Sita, A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields, Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan, Le Journal de Mademoiselle d’Arvers |
| Net Worth | Not disclosed |
Early Life and Education
Toru Dutt was born on 4 March 1856 in Calcutta (now Kolkata), India, to a well-respected Bengali family. Her father, Govind Chandra Dutt, was a magistrate known for his liberal thoughts, while her mother, Kshetramoni Dutt (née Mitter), belonged to the distinguished Rambagan Dutt family.
Dutt was the youngest of three siblings. Her sister Aru was two years older, and she also had a brother named Abjie. The Dutt siblings spent their childhood between their city house in Calcutta and a garden house in Baugmaree. Educated at home by her father and an Indian Christian tutor, Babu Shib Chunder Banerjee, Toru learned French, English, and eventually Sanskrit, in addition to her native Bengali. Her love for literature was nurtured by her father’s teachings and her mother’s storytelling.
Literary Career and Achievements
Toru Dutt’s literary career began early, driven by her deep appreciation for English literature and ancient Indian stories. She is considered one of the pioneering figures of Indo-Anglian literature, alongside contemporaries such as Henry Louis Vivian Derozio, Manmohan Ghose, and Sarojini Naidu.
Her notable works include:
- Sita: A poignant poem reflecting themes of loneliness and longing.
- A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields (1876): A collection of French poetry translations.
- Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan (1882): A compilation of poetic retellings of Indian legends.
- Le Journal de Mademoiselle d’Arvers (1879): A novel written in French.
Dutt’s poems often explored themes of patriotism, nostalgia, and the human experience. Her work earned her a place among the great poets of her time, despite her brief life.
Personal Life and Challenges
Toru’s life was marked by personal loss and health challenges. After the death of her brother Abjie at the age of fourteen, her family sailed to Europe, hoping to provide a better education for the remaining children. During this time, Toru further honed her literary skills and broadened her horizons.
Tragically, Toru Dutt’s life was cut short by tuberculosis. She passed away on 30 August 1877 at the age of 21 in Kolkata, India. Despite her brief life, her contributions to literature have left an enduring legacy.
FAQs
Who is Toru Dutt?
Toru Dutt, born Tarulatta Datta, was an Indian Bengali poet and translator. She is known for her significant contributions to Indo-Anglian literature and her works in English and French.
What was Toru Dutt’s age at the time of her death?
Toru Dutt was 21 years old when she passed away.
What was the cause of Toru Dutt’s death?
Toru Dutt died of tuberculosis on 30 August 1877.
Which tribe did Toru Dutt belong to?
Toru Dutt was part of the Indian Bengali community.
What is Toru Dutt’s net worth?
Toru Dutt’s net worth has not been disclosed.
Conclusion
Toru Dutt’s remarkable contributions to literature, despite her short life, continue to inspire readers and writers around the world. Her legacy as a pioneering Indo-Anglian poet and translator remains significant, showcasing the power of literary expression across languages and cultures
