On May 9, 2025, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary poet, philosopher, and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore on his 164th birth anniversary. This significant day, celebrated as Rabindra Jayanti or Poncheeshe Boishakh in West Bengal, honors the timeless contributions of Tagore to Indian literature, music, and culture.
Mamata Banerjee’s Tribute
Mamata Banerjee, a prominent figure in West Bengal’s political and cultural landscape, expressed her reverence for Tagore by offering floral tributes at a ceremony held in Kolkata. The event, steeped in cultural significance, saw the participation of noted singers and elocutionists who performed Tagore’s songs and recited his poems, encapsulating the essence of his artistic legacy. Banerjee emphasized Tagore’s ideology as a guiding force for the people of Bengal, stating, “His ideals continue to inspire and shape our cultural heritage.” Her tribute resonated with the sentiments of millions who regard Tagore as the “Bard of Bengal.”
The Legacy of Rabindranath Tagore
Born on May 7, 1861, in Kolkata’s Jorasanko Thakurbari, Rabindranath Tagore was a polymath whose contributions transcended literature. He composed over 2,000 songs, known as Rabindra Sangeet, and penned numerous poems, novels, and plays that remain integral to Bengali culture. His most celebrated work, Gitanjali, earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913, making him the first non-European to receive this honor. Tagore’s vision also led to the establishment of Visva-Bharati University in Santiniketan, a beacon of education and cultural heritage, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tagore’s influence extended beyond literature to Indian cinema and politics. His stories inspired iconic films like Satyajit Ray’s Charulata and Pratidwandi, and his national anthems for India (Jana Gana Mana) and Bangladesh (Amar Shonar Bangla) reflect his profound impact on national identity. His philosophy of universalism and humanism continues to inspire generations worldwide.
Rabindra Jayanti Celebrations
Rabindra Jayanti is celebrated with fervor across West Bengal and among Bengali communities globally. In Kolkata, cultural programs featuring Rabindra Sangeet, dance dramas, and poetry recitations mark the occasion. According to the Bengali calendar, the 25th day of Boishakh (May 9, 2025, in West Bengal) is dedicated to honoring Tagore’s contributions. Elsewhere in India, the celebrations align with his birth date, May 7, as per the Gregorian calendar.
This year, tributes poured in from various quarters. For instance, chef Vikas Khanna paid homage to Tagore at his New York restaurant, Bungalow, with a sensory experience featuring Tagore’s poetry, traditional Bengali sweets, and cultural motifs like rangoli and marigolds. Similarly, international tributes, such as the Korean fusion band Granada’s performance in 2024, highlight Tagore’s global influence.
Why Tagore’s Legacy Matters Today
Tagore’s works remain relevant for their exploration of human emotions, social justice, and cultural unity. His poem, Where the Mind is Without Fear, quoted by Mamata Banerjee in past tributes, encapsulates his vision of a free and enlightened society. In an era of division, Tagore’s message of universal brotherhood and creativity serves as a reminder of the power of art to transcend boundaries.
As we commemorate Rabindranath Tagore’s 164th birth anniversary, his legacy continues to inspire artists, thinkers, and leaders. Mamata Banerjee’s tribute underscores the deep connection Bengal shares with its beloved poet, ensuring that Tagore’s ideals of wisdom, freedom, and cultural pride live on.
