“Faith is the bird that feels the light when the dawn is still dark”
Rabindranath Tagore
Rabindranath Tagore was a philosopher, poet, artist, political and social thinker, and reformist who held many feathers in his cap – that of being the first non-European to win a Nobel Prize, being the author of India and Bangladesh’s national anthems, and the founder of Rabindra Sangeet, among many others.
As one of India’s most influential figures in modern history, Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm across the country, especially in his birthplace, West Bengal.
Observed on the 25th day of Boishakh (as per Bengali calendar) and on May 7 as per the Gregorian Calendar, here’s how Rabindranath Jayanti 2025 will be celebrated in India.
Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti 2025: Celebrations, Best Places, And More
About Rabindranath Tagore: Life, Achievements, And Honors
Rabindranath Tagore was born in Kolkata in 1861 to Debendranath Tagore and Sarada Deviwas. He was brought up in a family where most members were patrons of art, music, and literature. It is said that he started writing poetry as early as when he was just eight years old!
As Tagore grew older, his work became more and more nuanced and prolific. He was a polymath – a jack of all trades, and surprisingly a master of all! His political thoughts, literary works, and art inspired many in his lifetime.
In fact, his literary work was so profound that he was awarded the Nobel Laureate in Literature for his poetry collection, ‘Geetanjali’. Tagore’s Nobel win marked a revolution as he was the first non-European ever to win a Nobel Prize.
Not just that, but he is also credited with penning the national anthems of both India and Bangladesh. The Indian national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, was originally written by Tagore in Bangla.
Rabindranath Tagore’s influence was not limited to the field of literature, it was also seen in the field of music. Along with penning a number of short stories, novels, and dramas, he also penned more than 2,000 songs.
His work in the field is collectively known as ‘Rabindrasangeet’, which is itself inspired by Hindustani music.
He also founded the Visva-Bharati, an open-air school that embraced ancient teaching systems to make education more open, inclusive, and thought-provoking than just sitting in a traditional classroom.
He was also a prolific political thinker who resisted British colonial rule. Through his literary work, he inspired and educated many to resist the British Raj. Rabindranath Tagore had strong views that advocated the Indian nationalists and opposed imperialism.
His progressive thought and work for the country continue to inspire millions of people even today.
Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti 2025: Best Places To Celebrate
Though his birth anniversary is a major celebration in Bengali and literary communities across India, Rabindra Jayanti in West Bengal is the grandest of them all.
As the homeland of the prolific polymath, celebrations in West Bengal include grand processions, literary and cultural events, and honorary celebrations in schools and universities.
Many schools and colleges organize events to pay tribute to Rabindranath Tagore. They do so by reciting his poems, short stories, and enacting his dramas.
These events also feature song recitals and dance performances inspired by Rabindrasangeet. Many local communities and NGOs also carry out many events to honor him.
The celebrations in Visva-Bharati University are especially well-known. Students organize several events and competitions in the university and celebrate Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti in a grand manner. In fact, foreign students at the university also partake in this event!
Jora Sanko Thakur Bari in West Bengal, where Tagore was born, as well as Shantiniketan are places known for their vibrant Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti celebrations.
The Inspiring Legacy of Rabindranath Tagore
Rabindranath Tagore continues to remain one of India’s most influential personalities in the fields of literature, music, art, and social work.
His sheer literary brilliance put India on the global map after he won the Nobel Laureate.
This was not just a milestone event in his life, but also a momentous occasion for the Bengali community and India as a whole.
Even today, his philosophical thought and literary work continue to inspire millions of people and he is a revered figure in the Bengali community.
Summing Up
India has been blessed with impactful personalities like Rabindranath Tagore whose legacy continues to live on even today.
The Nobel Laureate polymath majorly shaped Indian literature, art, music, and political thought and immensely contributed to India’s freedom struggle.
In 2025, his birth anniversary will be celebrated on May 7 in many parts of the country, with major celebrations taking place in West Bengal and nearby regions.
FAQs
Why Is Rabindra Jayanti Celebrated?
Rabindra Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore. He was a polymath – a poet, a political thinker, an artist, and much more. His immense contribution in shaping India’s freedom struggle and Indian culture is beyond measure, which is why his legacy continues to inspire millions even today.
Is Rabindra Jayanti A Bank Holiday?
Rabindra Jayanti is a bank holiday only in West Bengal. Banks and government offices are shut on this day to celebrate Rabindra Jayanti.
When Did Rabindranath Tagore Die?
Rabindranath Tagore died on August 7, 1941 at the age of 80 in Kolkata.
