Date: 2025-03-11

Speaker: NA

The study tour comprised a one-day visit to Santiniketan, West Bengal, the educational and cultural hub established by Rabindranath Tagore, on March 11, 2005. The itinerary included an in-depth exploration of Visva-Bharati University, particularly its various bhavanas (departments) and their unique architectural styles. A significant portion of the tour was dedicated to the Rabindra Museum (Udayan, Konark, Shyamali, Punascha, and Udichi), which houses personal effects, manuscripts, paintings, and photographs related to Tagore's life and work. The visit also encompassed Chhatimtala, the Upasana Griha (Prayer Hall), and Kala Bhavan, providing insights into the spiritual and artistic dimensions of Santiniketan.

 

To gain a comprehensive understanding of Rabindranath Tagore's philosophy of education, art, and rural reconstruction as embodied in Santiniketan, and to explore his life and literary contributions through the exhibits at Rabindra Museum. The study tour aimed to provide practical exposure to an alternative educational model and foster an appreciation for Indian cultural heritage.

The study tour successfully met its objectives by providing students with a direct and immersive experience of Tagore's vision. Participants developed a deeper appreciation for the holistic approach to education at Visva-Bharati, which integrates arts, crafts, and nature with academic pursuits. The Rabindra Museum offered invaluable insights into Tagore's multifaceted genius as a poet, playwright, composer, philosopher, and visual artist, enhancing understanding of his literary and cultural impact. The tour also highlighted the historical significance of Santiniketan as a center for cultural exchange and rural upliftment. Students gained a broader perspective on alternative educational philosophies and the preservation of cultural heritage.