Ralph Fitch and his spying mission to Bengal in 1586 & Memoroid

Exploring the first Englishman’s visit to Bengal in 1586 & Memoroid: the tale of an ordinary man with an extra-ordinary ancestry Bringing the past to life through history-telling adda History-telling Adda is a creative space where heritage comes alive through interpretations, narratives and theatrical performances https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ralph-fitch-and-his-spying-mission-to-bengal-in-1586-tickets-1981865859135?aff=oddtdtcreator Thursday, 16 April 2026, 6:30–8:30 pm Lab 1A, Idea Store Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1BU. The event consists of a talk, details of the monthly initiative and a short drama performance. Ralph Fitch and his spying mission to Bengal in 1586 Exploring the first Englishman’s visit to Bengal in the context of the ongoing Mughal/Baro Bhuyan conflicts over territory, and how fictionalising such a history may be a uniquely invaluable heritage learning method, as well as a greatly creative and enjoyable experience. A presentation by Dr M Ahmedullah Ralph Fitch was the first Englishman to travel to Bengal. He arrived in Tanda in Bengal in February 1586 and travelled to many places, including Hugli, Chittagong, Barisal, Sripur, and Sonargoan. He departed Bengal in November 1586 in a Portuguese ship for Pegu in Burma. He left fascinating accounts of the people in Bengal, their clothing and houses, the animals (including dangerous tigers), food, international trade goods and their export destinations. Then, he went on an extensive tour of Burma and then to Melaka, before returning to Bengal in November 1588, where he stayed briefly until February 1588, when he departed for the Malabar Coast. He mentions Sonargoan being the location, ‘where there is the best and finest cloth made from cotton that is in all India. The Chief king of all these countries is called Isacan, and he is chiefe of all the other kings, and is a great friend to all Christians.’ Memoroid: the tale of an ordinary man with an extra-ordinary ancestry A short sci-fi historical play, written and directed by MA Choudhury Actors: M A Choudhury, Asma Shah and Anthony Smith We are working to create a unique history-learning opportunity that will be a deeply enjoyable and creative experience. Please join us to learn more about the initiative, how you can get involved and how to contribute ideas! For details please email info@powersofhistory.com An initiative of Powers of History