Life-size sculpture of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore at Rabindra Sarobar lake in Kolkata. (Image: Shutterstock)
Rabindranath Tagore is the only person in the World who composed the national anthem of two different countries – India and Bangladesh.
Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of the revered Indian poet, novelist and scholar, Rabindranath Tagore. His enduring legacy resonates deeply within the cultural fabric of India, particularly among the Bengali community. Celebrated on the 25th day of the Bengali month of Baisakhi, which typically aligns with May 7 on the Gregorian calendar, this year’s observance falls on May 8.
Across the nation, especially in Bengal, special events are organised to honour Tagore’s contributions. Schools, colleges, local communities and households unite in festivities marked by song, dance and recitations of his poetry.
Tagore’s literary works, deeply rooted in classical Sanskrit forms, resonate with modern audiences due to their profound exploration of human emotions. In 1913, his literary prowess earned him the Nobel Prize for Literature, showcasing his global impact.
Notably, his compositions served as national anthems for two countries. Jana Gana Mana, penned in 1911, was adopted as India’s national anthem on January 24, 1950, while Amar Shonar Bangala became the national anthem of Bangladesh in 1972.
Despite his passing on August 7, 1941, at the age of 80, Tagore’s words continue to inspire and uplift. Here’s a look at some of his most famous quotes.
Rabindranath Tagore’s Quotes
- “Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm but to add colour to my sunset sky.”
- “If I can’t make it through one door, I’ll go through another door- or I’ll make a door. Something terrific will come no matter how dark the present.”
- “Most people believe the mind to be a mirror, more or less accurately reflecting the world outside them, not realizing on the contrary that the mind is itself the principal element of creation.”
- “If you cry because the sun has gone out of your life, your tears will prevent you from seeing the stars.”
- “Let me not pray to be sheltered from dangers, but to be fearless in facing them. Let me not beg for the stilling of my pain, but for the heart to conquer it.”
- A mind with all logic is like a knife with all blade. It makes the hand bleed that uses it.”
- “We read the world wrong and say that it deceives us.”
- “Do not say, ‘It is morning,’ and dismiss it with a name of yesterday. See it for the first time as a newborn child that has no name. “
- ” What is Art? It is the response of man’s creative soul to the call of the Real.”
- ” Music fills the infinite between two souls.”
