Rabindranath Tagore’s 165th birth anniversary today

Today marks the 165th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, the towering figure of Bengali literature and a timeless symbol of humanism, creativity and cultural identity of the Indian subcontinent through his embrace of contextual modernism.

The Day is being observed across the country today (May 8) with nationwide celebrations and tributes.

Widely regarded as the guiding light of Bengali identity and intellectual freedom, Tagore’s literary works, philosophy and artistic vision continue to inspire generations during times of struggle, resistance and national transformation. His contributions to Bengali language, literature and culture remain deeply embedded in the spirit of Bangladesh and its Liberation War.

Born on 25 Baishakh, 1268, in the Bangla calendar (May 7, 1861) at the historic Jorasanko Thakur Bari in Kolkata, Rabindranath Tagore emerged as one of the most influential literary figures in world history. Through poetry, songs, novels, short stories, plays and essays, he reshaped Bengali literature while promoting universal human values, peace and harmony.

Tagore’s birthday was first celebrated informally in 1887 by his niece Sarala Devi, who welcomed the poet with garlands and traditional attire — a memory later documented in her memoir 'Jiboner Jhorapata. Since 1910, Rabindra Jayanti has been celebrated regularly at Santiniketan.

This year, the Ministry of Cultural Affairs has organised a three-day national programme under the theme “Rabindranath: The Poet of Peace and Humanity.” The central celebrations will be inaugurated on Friday at Shilaidaha Kuthibari, one of the poet’s most cherished residences in Bangladesh.

Cultural Affairs Adviser Nitai Roy Chowdhury is expected to attend the opening ceremony as chief guest. Distinguished academic Wakil Ahmed will deliver the welcome speech, while Cultural Adviser to the Prime Minister Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman will attend as special guest. The programme will be chaired by Cultural Secretary Kaniz Mowla.

Apart from Kushtia, elaborate programmes have also been arranged at Tagore’s other memory-linked locations, including Patisar, Shahzadpur and Dakshindihi. Political leaders, ministers, academics and cultural personalities are scheduled to participate in the events.

In the capital and across all districts, the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy has arranged a four-day cultural festival featuring music, dance, recitation and discussions centred on Tagore’s life and works. Meanwhile, Bangla Academy and Chhayanaut are jointly hosting special Rabindra festivals in Dhaka.

Educational institutions nationwide are also observing the occasion through essay competitions, discussion sessions and cultural programmes aimed at introducing younger generations to Tagore’s philosophy of humanity, peace and enlightenment.

As the world continues to grapple with conflict, intolerance and social division, Tagore’s timeless message of compassion, coexistence and universal humanity remains as relevant today as ever.