The Forgotten Church: Remembering Armenians of Saidabad

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As the Portuguese settled in Goa and the Jews in Cochin, the Armenians brought their unique influence to Calcutta. Arriving as merchants, they significantly impacted Eastern India’s commerce long before British involvement, linking Bengali trade to global networks. Their deep affection for Bengal transformed Calcutta into their enduring home. The author chronicles five centuries of Armenian history, highlighting their role during the golden age of Indian foreign trade. Settling in various regions, the Armenians showcased remarkable energy and ambition, excelling from the early Mughal era through British rule as administrators, diplomats, military leaders, artisans, poets, lawyers, judges, surgeons, and merchants. This work captures their diverse contributions and the strong sense of community they maintained, rooted in their Christian faith. They built beautiful churches, with many notable Armenians buried in the graveyards of Saidabad, Chinsura, Chandannagore, and Calcutta. Today, their monuments stand as silent witnesses to a vibrant commercial past, while some churches remain forgotten. The narrative centers on one such church in Saidabad, a poignant reminder of the Armenians' legacy.