kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The Bengal celebrated Rabindra Jayanti with cultural fervour and emotional pride on the 25th day of Boishakh, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her greetings to the people of West Bengal and beyond, invoking the timeless spirit of Rabindranath Tagore. In her message, the Chief Minister said, “May everyone be well. Let Tagore’s ideals continue to guide us towards unity, creativity, and compassion.”

Rabindra Jayanti, observed every year on the birth anniversary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, holds a special place in the hearts of Bengalis. This year’s celebrations saw a mix of tradition and innovation, with institutions, communities, and individuals paying homage to the Nobel laureate through songs, poetry recitations, dance dramas, and public performances.

Sharing her message on social media and through official communication, Mamata Banerjee emphasized the cultural and philosophical relevance of Tagore’s legacy in contemporary times. She referred to the poet’s humanist values and his vision of a world “where the mind is without fear and the head is held high,” saying that such ideals are more relevant than ever.

“In these difficult times, let us remember Kabiguru’s call for harmony, courage, and creativity. His teachings transcend generations and continue to shape our conscience and culture,” the Chief Minister wrote.

She also encouraged the youth to embrace Tagore’s inclusive philosophy and use art, literature, and education to build a more compassionate society.

Across Kolkata and districts of Bengal, schools, colleges, and cultural organizations held a wide array of programmes—from Rabindra Sangeet renditions to stage performances based on Tagore’s works like Chitrangada and Dak Ghar. The Rabindra Sadan and Jorasanko Thakurbari—Tagore’s ancestral home—were at the heart of the festivities, with flower tributes, processions, and musical gatherings.

Doordarshan Bangla and various private channels aired special features and performances dedicated to Tagore’s songs, essays, and plays. Meanwhile, online platforms buzzed with user-generated videos and tributes, especially from Bengali communities living abroad.

Government institutions also observed the day with cultural events, and this year, several schools incorporated readings from Sahaj Path and Geetanjali as part of classroom activities.

Rabindranath Tagore, born in 1861, was not only a poet and philosopher but also an education reformer, composer, and nationalist who reshaped modern Bengali literature and art. His contributions earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913—the first Asian to receive the honour.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has consistently maintained that Tagore’s vision for a free, fearless, and culturally enriched India is integral to Bengal’s identity. Her government has supported numerous initiatives to promote Tagorean heritage, including restoration projects, public music sessions, and school curriculum enhancements.

As Bengal marked the 164th birth anniversary of its greatest cultural icon, the Chief Minister’s message echoed a collective sentiment—of gratitude, of remembrance, and of hope.