The Prime Minister of India commemorated the 159th Jayanti of Rabindranath Tagore on May 7, 2020. This occasion provided an opportunity to reflect upon the remarkable life and contributions of one of India’s most esteemed literary figures.
Early Life and Identity of Rabindranath Tagore
Rabindranath Tagore was born in Calcutta, on May 7, 1861. His prestigious titles – ‘Gurudev’, ‘Kabiguru’, and ‘Biswakabi’ – encapsulate both his ability and influence within the literary world. As a timeless creative artist, Tagore left an indelible mark on modern Indian literature and culture.
Tagore’s Multi-Faceted Contributions to Literature and Art
Renowned for his versatility and talent, Tagore was not only a poet but also an accomplished novelist, painter, philosopher, and educationist. His literary achievements stretched far beyond the borders of India, eventually reaching the Western world. His ability to engage in diverse areas of interest made him a polymath, a figure highly esteemed for his wide-ranging knowledge and skill.
Gitanjali: A Nobel-Prize Winning Masterpiece
In 1913, Tagore’s book Gitanjali, a collection of poems, earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature. This accomplishment marked the beginning of global recognition for his work, making Tagore the first non-European to be honored with the prize.
Tagore’s Relationship with British Rule
In 1915, the British King George V awarded Tagore with a knighthood. However, in the wake of the Jallianwalla Bagh massacre in 1919, Tagore chose to denounce this title, expressing his strong opposition to British imperialism.
Tagore as an Educationist and Visionary
Aside from his literary pursuits, Tagore was a passionate advocate for education. In 1921, he founded Vishwa-Bharati University, an institution that challenged traditional notions of education and sought to revolutionize learning methods in India.
Rabindranath Tagore and Mahatma Gandhi
Apart from being a literary icon, Tagore was known for his close relationship with Mahatma Gandhi. The two maintained a deep mutual respect, and Tagore is even credited with bestowing upon Gandhi the title of ‘Mahatma’.
Tagore’s Vision for National Integration
Tagore firmly believed in the philosophy of unity in diversity. Throughout his life, he argued that the co-existence of diverse cultures and traditions was key to India’s national integration.
Tagore: The Figure Behind the Anthems
Tagore’s influence extended into the realm of national anthems. He composed the national anthems for both India and Bangladesh. Furthermore, one of his students from Sri Lanka went on to pen and compose the national anthem for Sri Lanka, exemplifying Tagore’s far-reaching impact.