Here's why:
* Early Bengali Literature: The development of Bengali literature was gaining momentum around the 19th century, with the rise of prose and drama. However, historical novels as a genre were still evolving.
* 1857 Sepoy Mutiny: This event was a turning point, and it's possible that writers began incorporating themes and narratives related to it in their works. However, a full-fledged historical novel focused on 1857 might have taken time to develop.
Possible Candidates:
* "Debi Choudhurani" by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay (1864): This novel is considered a landmark in Bengali literature and is often cited as one of the first historical novels. While set in the 18th century, it incorporates themes of rebellion and resistance, reflecting the post-1857 context.
* "Amar Sonar Bangla" by Rabindranath Tagore (1905): Though not a full-fledged novel, Tagore's patriotic song "Amar Sonar Bangla" reflects the spirit of nationalism that arose after 1857.
Finding the Exact Novel:
To pinpoint the very first historical novel written in Bengali in 1857, it would be necessary to delve deeper into the history of Bengali literature, examining works from that period. You could consult:
* Historical Literary Texts: Access to archives and scholarly publications on early Bengali literature.
* University Libraries and Research Institutes: Libraries specializing in Bengali literature may hold relevant resources.
* Literary Historians: Contacting experts in Bengali literature might provide further insights.
Conclusion:
While it's unlikely to find a novel written in 1857 focusing specifically on the Sepoy Mutiny, understanding the historical context and exploring the evolution of Bengali literature during that period will be crucial to discovering the early works that paved the way for later historical novels.