History of 7th August- 22 e Srabon
This episode is about the history of 7th August, highlighting events like the Battle of Crannon, the construction of Florence Cathedral’s dome, and other events. The centerpiece of the article is a feature story about Rabindranath Tagore on his death anniversary, The piece celebrates Tagore’s multifaceted legacy, including his contributions to literature, music, art, and social reform, and explores lesser-known aspects of his life that continue to inspire generations.
To begin with the history of 7th August we travel to the year 322 BCE when the Battle of Crannon was fought between Athens and Macedon following the death of Alexander the Great.
Moving on with the history of 7th August we come to the year 1420 when on this day the construction of the dome of Florence Cathedral was started. It was designed by Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi.
Some more significant events from the history of 8th August are:-
In the year 1461 Ming Dynasty Chinese military general Cao Qin stages a coup against the Tianshun Emperor.
Possible first performance of Shakespeare’s tragedy Macbeth, performed in the Great Hall at Hampton Court Palace for King James I in the year 1606.
Astronomer Johannes Kepler’s mother was arrested for alleged witchcraft in the year 1620.
With this I come to the feature story from the history of 7th August.
Jokhon Porbe Na Mor Payer Chinno Ai Bate: Remembering the Bard of Bengal
On the 82nd anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore’s passing, we remember the life and legacy of this multifaceted genius who left an indelible mark on literature, music, art, and social reform. Beyond his renowned works, there are lesser-known facets of his life that continue to inspire and enlighten generations.
A Life Beyond Boundaries
Rabindranath Tagore, often referred to as the Bard of Bengal, was not merely a poet or a musician; he was a beacon of enlightenment and progress. Born on May 7, 1861, Tagore’s journey through life was a testament to his unparalleled creativity and his dedication to social reform. He passed away on August 7, 1941, at the age of 80. His demise marked the end of an era, but his legacy has transcended time.
A Noble Laureate’s Trailblazing Achievement
Tagore’s poetry collection, “Gitanjali,” was a literary masterpiece that resonated not only in his native Bengali but also in English, thanks to his translation. This collection marked a pivotal moment in literary history as Tagore became the first lyricist to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913. The preface to the English edition of “Gitanjali” was written by none other than the Irish poet W.B. Yeats. This Nobel medal, a symbol of recognition for his poetic brilliance, was tragically stolen in 2004, but the essence of his work lives on.
Innovative Pedagogy: The Birth of Visva Bharati University
Tagore’s contributions extended far beyond his poetry. His beliefs were not confined to the conventional methods of education and teaching. He envisioned a place where education was not just an indoor activity but an experience intertwined with nature. With the Nobel Prize money, he founded Visva Bharati University, a unique institution where learning flourished in the open air, fostering an environment of holistic growth and creativity.
A Knighthood Renounced and a Conscience Aroused
Tagore’s life was marked by his deep connection to his homeland and his unwavering principles. In 1915, he was knighted by King George V for his literary achievements. However, in 1919, the Jallianwala Bagh massacre shook him to the core. When British General Reginald Dyer ordered troops to open fire on peaceful protesters, causing the death of nearly a thousand people, Tagore renounced his knighthood as a protest against this horrific event.
Anthem of Unity and Identity
Tagore’s creative contributions extended to shaping the cultural and national identity of both India and Bangladesh. The Indian national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” adopted in 1950, is the first stanza of his Bengali poem “Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata” (1911). Similarly, Bangladesh’s national anthem, “Amar Sonar Bangla,” was also penned by Tagore. His literary prowess not only celebrated his heritage but also became the embodiment of the aspirations of nations.
Personal Triumphs and Spiritual Evolution
Behind the creative brilliance and social activism, Tagore’s personal life held stories of resilience and spiritual evolution. He endured the pain of losing loved ones, including his mother, wife, daughter, father, and son. These losses led him to believe in a higher power, which he referred to as “Jiban Devata” or the Lord of Life. This belief became the source of his creative energy and spiritual solace.
Champion of Unity and Enlightenment
Tagore was not confined by divisive ideologies. He was a staunch advocate of Indian nationalism, rejecting both Hindu and Muslim nationalism. His firm belief in unity and shared identity transcended communal boundaries and provided a unifying vision for a diverse nation.
Innovator and Humble Sage
Tagore’s innovations extended beyond the written word. His music, influenced by global melodies, bore his unique touch. Interestingly, he never erased corrections in his writing; instead, he transformed them into intricate sketches, reflecting the fusion of his artistic talents.
Legacy and Celebration
As we remember Rabindranath Tagore on his 82nd death anniversary, we honor his enduring legacy. His life was not just a journey of artistic achievements but a testament to the power of creativity, social reform, and humanity. His influence continues to ripple through time, inspiring generations to embrace their unique talents, challenge conventions, and strive for a better, harmonious world.
That’s all for the Day
What's Your Reaction?
