The Murshidabad Silk Trade and Bengal's Global Luxury

In this episode of The Hidden History of Bengal, Lucas and Luna explore the rise and fall of Bengal's silk industry, centered on Murshidabad. They trace how Mughal-era silk production became a global luxury, attracting European traders like the Dutch and English East India Companies. The discussion covers the unique breed of silkworms, the intricate weaving techniques of the tanti weavers, and the devastating impact of British colonial policies, including the imposition of duties that destroyed the industry. Key figures like Murshid Quli Khan, who founded the city, and the weavers who resisted colonial control are highlighted. The episode also touches on the ecological factors—the soil of the Bhagirathi basin—that made Murshidabad silk superior. Lucas and Luna connect this story to broader themes of globalization, exploitation, and cultural erasure, ending with a reflection on how a once-luxurious commodity shaped Bengal's economy and identity. #Murshidabad #Silk #BengalHistory #MughalEmpire #EastIndiaCompany #TantiWeavers #Bhagirathi #MurshidQuliKhan #GlobalTrade #LuxuryGoods #Colonialism #Deindustrialization #Weaving #Sericulture #DutchEastIndiaCompany #BritishRaj #FexingoHistory #SouthAsianHistory Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo