Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid homage to the legendary poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, describing him as the "timeless voice of India's civilisational soul." The Prime Minister made the remarks while addressing a gathering in West Bengal's Birbhum district, where he was visiting Santiniketan, the university town founded by Tagore.
Modi's Tribute to Tagore
Speaking at an event, Modi said, "Rabindranath Tagore is not just a poet of Bengal but a timeless voice of India's civilisational soul. His works continue to inspire generations and remind us of our rich cultural heritage." The Prime Minister also laid a wreath at the poet's memorial and spent time at the Visva-Bharati University, which Tagore established in 1921.
Tagore's Enduring Legacy
Tagore, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for his collection of poems "Gitanjali," remains one of India's most revered cultural figures. His compositions, including the national anthems of India and Bangladesh, are sung with pride across the subcontinent. Modi emphasized that Tagore's vision of universal harmony and his contributions to education, music, and art are more relevant today than ever.
The Prime Minister also recalled Tagore's role in the Indian freedom struggle, noting that the poet renounced his knighthood in protest against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919. "Tagore stood for truth and justice, and his life is a lesson for all of us," Modi added.
Development Initiatives in Birbhum
During his visit, Modi also launched several development projects in the region, including initiatives for education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He said that the government is committed to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Santiniketan, which was recently inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The event was attended by West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose and other dignitaries. The Prime Minister's visit to the state comes amid ongoing political tensions, but the focus remained on cultural and developmental aspects.
Reactions from Political Leaders
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who did not attend the event, later tweeted her respects to Tagore, stating that his legacy transcends politics. Other leaders from various parties also paid tribute to the poet on social media, highlighting his enduring influence on Indian society.
The Prime Minister's homage to Tagore underscores the poet's significance as a unifying figure in India's diverse cultural landscape. As Modi noted, Tagore's words continue to resonate, offering wisdom and inspiration for a nation striving to uphold its civilisational values.
