Tagore supported the freedom struggle and even returned his knighthood to protest the killings at Jallianwala Bagh in 1919. The programme concluded with a recitation of 'Amar Sonar Bangla', the natioanal anthem of Bangladesh, being read in Bengali, English and Urdu as a celebration of the great poet who was once banned in erstwhile East Pakistan.Дepartment of History chairperson Yaqoob Bangash said Tagore was a strong patriot though he was not a big supporter of nationalism, according to a report in the Daily Times. The event included renditions of Tagore's poetry in song and recitation, clips from a documentary by director Satyajit Ray and the narration of a short story by the writer. It was a perfect evening for introducing the audience to the multi-talented artist, who aroused this level of fervor, through his poetry, paintings and musical compositions.Tagore was the first non-European and first South Asian to win the Nobel Prize for literature in 1913. These lines came alive as members of the Noble Poetry Club presented them in different languages including Arabic, Russian, Serbian and Hindi. He wished for a world not fragmented by religion, caste, creed and colour. Tagore, in his poem 'Mind Without Fear' had envisioned how he wanted India to be. As the singers began singing 'Eso Shyamolo Sundaro', many from the audience joined them in humming the melodies. Based on Hindustani Classical and Folk music of Bengal, these tunes are close to every Bengali in India and Bangladesh. Next, it was time to hear some Rabindra Sangeet, the songs written and composed by Tagore himself. Just as the lights on the stage went out, Amitabh Bachchan's voice singing 'Ekla Chalo Re' filled the auditorium with dancers taking over, much to our delight. Many present seemed amazed by the revelation that he had also penned the Sri Lankan National anthem.Д¬an an evening remembering Tagore be complete without his iconic song 'Ekla Chalo Re'? The song was used frequently during India's Independence movement and continues to inspire generations even today. The highlight of the evening was when two singers rendered portions of the anthem in the most soulful way. Tagore's most known compositions definitely have to be the National Anthems of two countries - India and Bangladesh.

One that struck with us was, 'Depth of friendship does not depend on the length of acquaintance.'

The evening was peppered with interesting quotes by Tagore.

The dancers presenting the Indian dance forms were graceful and it was a visual treat to watch them adapt the classical moves to the words of Tagore. You didn't need to know Bengali to feel his words. Noble Poetry Club, a young group of performers, walked us through the highlights of Tagore's life and his camaraderie with illustrious figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Sigmund Freud and Albert Einstein.ДЇor the benefit of those who didn't understand the language, the troupe presented his works in a unique music and dance format. It is worth noting that 150 years back there were many poets but none as influential as Tagore and this was the evening to celebrate his literary achievements. It was a true fusion of different languages, music, dance forms, and poetry. Fusion was the theme of the evening at an event to celebrate the life and works of Rabindranath Tagore at the Indian Consulate yesterday.

Rabindranath tagore poem ekla chalo re