Tagore's women characters, Thakurbari come alive through music, dance, fashion show

The ballroom of an upscale hotel in the capital transformed into a slice of Santiniketan as iconic women characters created by Rabindranath Tagore came alive through a vibrant blend of music, dance and fashion.

At times, Labanya from Shesher Kobita strode confidently across the stage, while moments later Charulata from Nashtanirh appeared with a touch of melancholy in her eyes. As renditions of Rabindra Sangeet filled the air, the elegance and aristocratic charm of the Tagore household were reflected through contemporary fashion and artistic presentation.

The event showcased a fusion of Bengal’s literary heritage and modern aesthetics, bringing together elements of performance art, traditional culture and fashion under one roof.

The programme was organised to celebrate the 165th birth anniversary of Poet Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, where music, dance and a fashion show highlighted the heritage of the Tagore household and the powerful female characters of Rabindra literature.

One of the main attractions of the event was the artistic portrayal of Tagore’s iconic women characters. Through a graceful fusion of fashion and performance, Ripa appeared as Labanya, Ila portrayed Bimala, while Sadia brought Mrinalini to life on stage.

At the same time, Sanjida captivated the audience with her timeless portrayal of Charulata, Rifat appeared as Sucharita, Babli as Nandini and Runi as Giribala. Their performances transported the audience back to the golden era of Bengali literature.

The event also beautifully portrayed the historic women figures of the Tagore household — Kadambari Devi, Jnanadanandini Devi, Swarnakumari Devi, Sarala Devi and Indira Devi — along with the poet’s descendants Madhurilata, Renuka Devi and Mira Devi, highlighting their personalities and distinctive styles of attire with remarkable accuracy.

Besides the fashion show, performances of Rabindra Sangeet and dance dramas mesmerised the audience. In the dance dramas, Saba delivered an outstanding performance as Shyama, Antara portrayed Chitrangada, while Susmita impressed the audience with her graceful performance as Chandalika. Renowned dancer Samina Hossain Prema performed a solo dance recital based on Bhanusingher Padabali.

The musical performances were presented by Swapnil Sajib, Farhin Khan Joyeeta, Mahua Manjuri and Semanti Manjuri. The entire programme was accompanied by poetry recitation and narration by Trapa Majumdar and Ashikul Islam.

Fashion experts believe the event has added a new dimension to the country’s fashion show industry. More than just a display of clothing, the programme highlighted the elegance and modernity of the Tagore household through period-inspired décor, styling and attire. From the stage decoration to every performance, the event celebrated the spirit of Bengali culture.

At the opening of the programme, Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma recalled Rabindranath Tagore’s timeless contributions to world peace and humanity. FDCB President Maheen Khan spoke about the background of the event and the influence of women characters in Rabindra literature. The welcome speech was delivered by the organisation’s General Secretary Shaibal Saha.

The programme, held from 6pm to 10pm, offered the audience an enchanting evening of music, poetry and fashion, allowing them to rediscover Rabindranath Tagore in a new light.