Between 1766 and 1768, a series of severe droughts and poor monsoon seasons led to the catastrophic Bengal famine, which resulted in the deaths of millions. The famine highlighted the vulnerabilities of agricultural practices in colonial India and the impact of British policies on local food security. This tragic event not only caused immense suffering but also sparked debates about colonial governance and the responsibilities of the British Empire towards its subjects, influencing future policies in India.

The Bengal famine of 1766-1768 has been critiqued in both British and Bengali literature, highlighting the colonial impacts on society. Poets like Rabindranath Tagore addressed the human suffering caused by the famine, weaving narratives that reflect on loss, resilience, and the consequences of colonial policies.