INDIA: In the entire gamut of lyricism, art and literature, there is no name as prominent as Guru Rabindranath Tagore’s deft writing of poetry and prose that transcends bounds, striking a chord of poignancy in the reader’s mind and soul. His creative ingenuity and philosophy have trespassed the country’s borders, and his art has received international acclamation.
Tagore’s birthday is celebrated on May 7 in Bengal and all throughout India, popularly called Rabindra Jayanti, which is marked with pomp and cultural performances. On this auspicious day, we reminisce about the Nobel Laureate’s cultural significance and important contributions in the field of art, prose, poetries, novel and plays.
Guru Tagore’s lasting influence on Indian art, music and literature
Rabindranath Tagore was the youngest of 13 siblings and was born to Debendranath Tagore and Sarada Devi on May 7, 1861. He still needs to complete his degree from the Presidency College, Kolkata, despite having a lot of interest in reading and writing from a very young age.
Tagore’s poetry is subtle, poignant, and simple, which resonates deeply with the human mind. His skill in channelling emotions and the plight of humans into prose etched a language that is unique to his expertise. Tagore delved into prose, poetry, novel and play themes that included love, spirituality, nature, etc. His work is in Bengali and was translated with due time into various languages.
His creative ingenuity also seeped into the realm of music as he composed more than two thousand songs, popularly called Rabindra Sangeet, coalescing Indian classical tunes with soft Western influences. His compositions are sung in cultural programs and shown even to this day. He was felicitated with the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913 and became the first non-European to bag the prize.
Tagore’s philosophy motivated many freedom fighters fighting for India’s Independence in the 1940s. His compositions stirred the masses and inspired thousands of people. He started the Visva Bharati University, where students could exchange knowledge, ideas and philosophies. Tagore believed in a philosophy devoid of taboos and accessible to people of all segments of society.
Tagore recognised the need to break free from British Colonial rule and the power of living independently. He believed that equality in all spheres, economic, cultural, and societal, is the foundation for attaining collective goals in a country as diverse as India. He established many organisations, including hospitals and schools, to support the underprivileged.
Rabindranath Tagore has been one of the most celebrated artists in India and worldwide. His works are immortal, and his art is ethereal. His birthday is a testimony of the dire strength portrayed in all aspects of life. His philanthropy inspires many to follow similar steps to impact the world positively and people’s lives.
Also Read: IIC to Screen ‘Thinking of Him’ on the Occasion of Rabindranath Tagore’s 162nd Birth Anniversary
