Events to celebrate Rabindranath Tagore's 150th birth anniversary

As part of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Rabindranath Tagore, ICCR has arranged the mega art-tour in Germany of an exhibition by Akar Prakar, entitled 'Enduring Legacy'. It consists of some exquisite paintings by leading and upcoming artists primarily inspired by Tagore.

The exhibition represents their view of it as perceived by them. Some of the facets covered are Rabindranath Tagore's pedagogue and also the impact of his art practice, poetry and philosophy on the younger generation of artists from India," Reena Lath, the director of Akar Prakar, mentions in an interview.

It aims at celebrating ‘the continuing relevance’ of the legendary painter-poet and also at encouraging the rich artistic creativity even among the younger generation, according to the director of ICCR (Kolkata), Reba Shome.

The organizers term it a landmark exhibit that is bound to make a major impact since the art showcased is of the highest quality in terms of content and form. It does not merely try to propagate false notions about Indian art and artists. The works are really wonderful, but not merely eye pleasing. Akar Prakar has tried to focus on the prevailing art scene in Bengal. The gallery has carved out an apt profile of their own, looking to sums up the art scene.

Meanwhile, a beautiful bust of ‘Gurudeb’ Tagore now adorns Jongno District in Seoul. A press release from ICCR notes: “Years before Korea was to get rid of foreign occupation, Rabindranath Tagore prophesied in one of his famous poems (The Lamp of the East) in 1929 that Korea would soon rise among the comity of nations like a star. "

As India celebrates the 150th birth anniversary of this great thinker and litterateur, the Republic of Korea partakes in the country’s joy by installing a bronze bust in the cultural heart of Seoul. The four feet high metal masterpiece installed in Daehangro is exquisitely carved by renowned Indian sculptor Gautam Pal. It has been gifted by the ICCR to Korea on behalf of the government and the people of India.