Published in 1778 this was one of the first grammars of Bengali ever compiled. The English orientalist Nathaniel Brassey Halhed (1751-1830) prepared the work to facilitate communication between his colleagues. The book was written at the request of Governor Warren Hastings. It marked the beginning of the standardisation of Indian languages. One of the primary aims in producing this work was to promote familiarity with the Bengali language among the European settlers in Bengal. Furthermore the publication represents the first successful reproduction of the Bengali language in metal type. About the Author Nathaniel Brassey Halhed (1751-1830) was an English Orientalist and philologist. While at Oxford he undertook oriental studies under the influence of William Jones. Accepting a writership in the service of the East India Company he came out to India. In 1778 he published this grammar from the first Bengali press in India.
