This season, embark on a literary voyage through inspiring destinations- Tagore's travel!
Rabindranath Tagore, the iconic Bengali polymath, wasn't just a literary giant; he was a traveller with a restless soul. His journeys across continents and cultures found their way into his poems, novels, and short stories, enriching them with vivid imagery and profound insights.
Shantiniketan, West Bengal, India: Tagore's creation, Shantiniketan, nestled in the Birbhum district of West Bengal, is a must-visit for any Tagore enthusiast. Established in 1901 as an experimental school, Shantiniketan embodies Tagore's vision of holistic education amidst nature's embrace. Here, you can visit Tagore's residence, Thakur Bari, a treasure trove of his personal belongings and manuscripts. Stroll through the sprawling Shantiniketan Ashram, envisioned by Tagore as a place for learning and cultural exchange. Don't miss the Kala Bhavan, an art school founded by Tagore's nephew, which has produced some of India's most renowned artists.
Literary Connection: Shantiniketan permeates Tagore's works. Novels like Shesher Kobita (Farewell My Friend) and Chokher Bali (Sandstone Eyes) are set against their idyllic backdrop.
Shillong, Meghalaya, India: Perched amidst the verdant hills of Meghalaya, Shillong served as Tagore's summer retreat for many years. Enchanted by its natural beauty, Tagore penned several poems, including the evocative "Clouds". You can walk through the serene Lady Hydari Park, where Tagore is believed to have found inspiration. Visit the Shillong Club, a colonial-era establishment where Tagore interacted with the local elite. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and soak in the breathtaking scenery, just like Tagore did while composing his timeless verses.
Literary Connection: Poems like "A Wanderer" and "Where the Mind is Without Fear" capture the essence of Shillong's tranquillity.
Yasnaya Polyana, Russia: Tagore's intellectual curiosity led him to Russia in 1930, where he had a fruitful meeting with literary giant Leo Tolstoy. Yasnaya Polyana, Tolstoy's sprawling estate south of Moscow, became a site for exchange of ideas. Tour the estate's manor house and immerse yourself in the world of these two literary titans. Explore the surrounding woodlands, a source of inspiration for both writers. Imagine the stimulating conversations that must have transpired amidst the tranquillity of Yasnaya Polyana.
Literary Connection: While there's no direct mention of Yasnaya Polyana in Tagore's works, the visit likely influenced his perspectives and creative process.
London, England: Tagore's travels took him to London on several occasions. The bustling city left a lasting impression, reflected in his writings. Explore the vibrant literary scene of London, visiting bookstores like Hatchards. Take a walk through the verdant expanse of Hyde Park, a place of solace for Tagore amidst the urban chaos. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of London, a city that undoubtedly sparked Tagore's imagination.
Literary Connection: Several of Tagore's poems, including "London," capture the city's contrasting facets- its grandeur and underbelly.
The Sundarbans, West Bengal, India: The enigmatic Sundarbans, a vast mangrove forest at the confluence of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers, captivated Tagore. His short story, "Kabuliwala" (The Kabuliwala), is set against this unique backdrop. Explore the Sundarbans on a boat tour, keeping an eye for the elusive Royal Bengal tiger. Witness the rich biodiversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Feel the pulse of the Sundarbans, a place that undoubtedly fueled Tagore's literary genius.
Literary Connection: “Kabuliwala” depicts the Sundarbans' untamed beauty and the resilience of its people.
Tagore's travels were more than just sightseeing ventures; they were journeys of exploration and inspiration.
