"Three Million"

Listen Link:  "Three Million"

In the vast landscape of history, some stories remain buried beneath the sands of time, waiting to be unearthed and shared with the world. The podcast series "Three Million," presented by BBC Radio 4, does precisely this by delving into the heart-wrenching yet largely overlooked tragedy of the 1943 Bengal Famine. While millions perished during this catastrophic event in British India, the famine has often been relegated to the shadows of historical discourse. Now, through the masterful storytelling of Kavita Puri, these voices are finally being heard.

Kavita Puri, known for her acclaimed series "Partition Voices" and "Three Pounds in My Pocket," tackles the subject with both analytical depth and heartfelt sensitivity. From the very beginning, "Three Million" captivates listeners through its thorough research and the profound emotional resonance it achieves. As highlighted by The Sunday Times, it is distinguished as "the best history podcast I've heard in years," skillfully merging academic accuracy with a compelling storytelling approach.

The series opens in 1942, a tumultuous time when the Japanese forces are advancing through Southeast Asia, casting a looming shadow over British India. Episode 1, "War," sets the stage as Calcutta transforms into a hub of military activity, teeming with Allied soldiers. This backdrop of tension and impending doom lays the groundwork for the decisions that would tragically contribute to the famine. Puri's presentation, characterized by The Observer as "measured, dedicated, and beautifully voiced," guides us through these harrowing events with both sensitivity and insight.

Through firsthand accounts from survivors—ranging from farmers and fishermen to artists, writers, and colonial British officials—the podcast reveals personal stories that have seldom been shared publicly. These narratives are not mere historical anecdotes; they are powerful testimonies of human endurance and resilience amidst unimaginable suffering.

The series has rightfully garnered accolades, winning Gold for Best New Podcast at the British Podcast Awards 2024 and Best History Podcast at the Association of International Broadcasters Awards 2024. Kavita Puri's remarkable contribution earned her the title of Presenter of the Year at the 2024 Eastern Eye Arts Culture and Theatre Awards, and she was also a finalist for the Orwell Prize for Journalism. Such recognition underscores the podcast's impact in sparking discussions around the Bengal Famine and challenging us to reflect on how we perceive historical narratives.

The Guardian's inclusion of "Three Million" in its top 10 radio and podcast picks of 2024 highlights its significance in shedding light on this somber chapter of history. As listeners, we are invited to engage with these stories, to acknowledge the past, and to ensure that such tragedies are neither forgotten nor repeated.

In introducing you, my readers, to this remarkable podcast, I urge you to lend your ears and open your hearts to "Three Million." It is a powerful reminder of the importance of bearing witness to history, of giving voice to the voiceless, and of our shared responsibility to remember and learn. 

Please click on reference 1 below to listen to this heart wrenching story, told in several episodes…

Ref:  1. BBC Sounds - Three Million - Available Episodes

2. Kavita-Puri.com

3. Thetimes.com

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5. Image generated by AI based on story outline: