A LATE Indian poet was honoured via an evening of song and dance, thanks to the Malaysian Bengalee Association.
The legendary Rabindranath Tagore from Kolkata, India, was a renowned figure.
In addition to his celebrated poetry, Tagore was known for his plays, musicals, short stories and novels which made significant impact on literature, music and the arts.
In 1913, he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, the first Asian to receive the honour.
Tagore died in 1941 at the age of 80.
After his death, Tagore’s legacy lived through his work and the profound impact he had on Bengal culture.
As a tribute, Malaysian Bengalee Association hosted an event titled “Raktakarabi o Rabindranath: Ekaaler Sandhane” at Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah Complex in Subang Jaya, Selangor.
The highlight was a contemporary interpretation of Raktakarabi, one of Tagore’s most significant plays.
Written between 1923 and 1924, and originally titled Yaksapuri, it is a story about a tyrannical king who exploits his subjects.
The story revolves around Nandini, a young woman who symbolises hope, with the play exploring themes of oppression, freedom and resilience.
The performance featured several artistes from India including Debasish Sen Sharma, Tnusree Chakraborty, Sounak Chattopadhyay and Debamitra Sengupta.
Association president Sukhendu Choudhury said the programme was a blend of tradition and contemporary reflections.
“We explored Rabindranath Tagore’s Raktakarabi through modern lens.
“We hope it inspires, uplifts and connects us all in ways that only art can,” he said.
There were also performances by children of the association members.
