Great writer and thinker: PM Modi pays homage to Rabindranath Tagore

New Delhi, April 26 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to Rabindranath Tagore, calling him a “multifaceted personality” who shaped several renowned institutions with his writings and thoughts.

Rabindranath Tagore was a polymath of the Bengal Renaissance period. He became the first Asian to win a Nobel Prize in any category in 1913, and also the first lyricist and non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Addressing the 133rd episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi said, “Many festivals, including New Year, were celebrated in many parts of the country. In a few days, on May 9, on the occasion of ‘Pochishe Boishakh’, we will celebrate Gurudev Tagore’s birth anniversary. Gurudev was a multifaceted personality. He was not only a great writer and thinker; he also shaped many renowned institutions.”

He paid homage to Rabindranath Tagore and said that the influence of his music continues to spread worldwide even today.

“Gurudev Tagore advocated for industries that provided sustainable employment and benefited villages. The influence of Rabindra Sangeet continues worldwide even today. My visits to Shantiniketan will remain unforgettable for me. This is the very institution that he nurtured and shaped with unwavering dedication. My humble tribute to him once again,” the Prime Minister added.

In conclusion, PM Modi said that the month of May also reminds people of the First War of Independence of 1857. “I salute all the brave children of Maa Bharati who awakened the spirit of patriotism among the people,” he said.

“This is also vacation time for school children. I urge them to enjoy their holidays to the fullest and try to learn something new. During this summer season, all of you should also take full care of your health,” he added.

–IANS

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