Celebrating Rabindranath Tagore: The Legacy of a Literary Giant
Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti 2026: Renounced Knighthood, Won Nobel & Changed Education Forever, Know Lesser Known Facts About 'Gurudev'
News 18
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Rabindranath Tagore, celebrated on his 165th birth anniversary on May 7th, is a revered cultural icon known for his contributions to literature, music, and education. Notably, he was the first Asian Nobel laureate in Literature and renounced his knighthood in protest against British colonialism, showcasing his commitment to morality over recognition.
- 01Rabindranath Tagore won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for 'Gitanjali', becoming the first non-European laureate.
- 02He renounced his knighthood in 1919 in protest against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, emphasizing his moral stance against colonial rule.
- 03Tagore's influence extends to three national anthems: India's 'Jana Gana Mana', Bangladesh's 'Amar Sonar Bangla', and inspiration for Sri Lanka's anthem.
- 04Despite being partially colour-blind, he began painting at 60, showcasing his unique artistic vision.
- 05Tagore invested his Nobel Prize money into his educational vision at Visva-Bharati University.
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On May 7th, the 165th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore is celebrated, honoring his profound impact on literature, music, and education. Tagore, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for his work 'Gitanjali', was the first non-European laureate. Instead of seeking personal gain from the prize, he dedicated much of the money to his educational institution, Visva-Bharati University. His legacy also includes writing India's national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana', and contributing to Bangladesh's 'Amar Sonar Bangla', with his style inspiring Sri Lanka's anthem as well. In a significant act of defiance against British colonial rule, he renounced his knighthood in 1919 following the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, prioritizing moral integrity over recognition. Interestingly, despite being partially colour-blind, Tagore pursued painting later in life, creating works that reflected his distinctive artistic perspective.
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Tagore's contributions to literature and education continue to inspire generations, fostering a sense of national pride and cultural identity in India and beyond.
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