#brahmo samaj

[videshisutra]

Earliest Glimpses of Colorado Hinduism

The early 20th century in Denver marks a fragmented period for the presence of Hinduism, a time when authentic Hindu philosophy and spirituality began to emerge alongside a flurry of sensationalist and dubious claims. The Vedanta Society made a brief but notable appearance, attempting to establish a foothold for genuine Hindu teachings, though its influence appears to have been transient. More…

[worldmets]

Ram Mohan Roy's Role and Contribution in the Formation of Modern India

Ram Mohan Roy’s Role and Contribution in the Formation of Modern India. Raja Ram Mohan Roy is the shaper of modern India.  Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1772–1833) was a key figure in the socio-religious and political reform movements of 19th-century India. His contributions were instrumental in shaping the intellectual and social landscape of modern India. What is the role and contribution of Ram Mohan…

[booksmets]

Role of Raja Rammohan Roy in the Renaissance of Bengal

Role of Raja Rammohan Roy in the renaissance of Bengal. Raja Rammohan Roy – Significant role in the Renaissance of Bengal.  Raja Rammohan Roy (1772–1833) played a significant role in the renaissance of Bengal, contributing to social, cultural, and educational reforms during the early 19th century. His efforts were instrumental in bringing about a transformation in the intellectual and social…

[notasfilosoficas]

"No puedes cruzar el mar simplemente mirando al agua"

Rabindranath Tagore

Fue un poeta, dramaturgo, músico y filósofo del movimiento Brahmo Samaj, un movimiento social y religioso fundado en el siglo XIX y que significa literalmente, la sociedad de los devotos de Dios verdadero. Nació en Calcuta India, en mayo de 1816. Se le considera el más prestigioso escritor indio de comienzos del siglo XX.

Fue el menor de 14 hermanos, de niño vivió rodeado de una atmósfera de publicaciones de revistas literarias y de representaciones musicales y de teatro. Su hermano era un respetado poeta y filósofo y otro de ellos fue el primer miembro de una etnia india admitido en el servicio civil indio, que anteriormente estaba formado solo por blancos.

En 1878, Tagore viajó a Brighton Inglaterra, en donde estudió en un colegio privado, y posteriormente en el University College de Londres, misma que dejaría al cabo de un año.

A lo largo de su vida, Tagore mantuvo múltiples contactos con otros intelectuales de la época, en donde destacan, Albert Einstein, Robert Frost, Mahatma Gandhi, Bernard Shaw y H.G.Wells entre otros.

La poesía dominó la reputación literaria de Tagore, aunque también escribió novelas, ensayos e historias cortas, se suman casi un centenar de libros y compuso numerosas canciones. De la prosa de Tagore, sus obras de mas consideración son sus cuentos cortos, y se le atribuye la introducción de este género en la literatura bengalí,

A partir de 1912, recibió numerosas invitaciones para pronunciar conferencias en occidente y en 1913, obtuvo el premio Nobel de Literatura. Gracias a ello, ganó gran popularidad, convirtiéndose en una celebridad de Oriente de las que muy pocos conocían y escuchaban en Occidente. Dos años después de recibir el premio Nobel, el rey Jorge V lo nombró caballero, titulo al que renunció tras la matanza de Amritsar en 1919, cuando las tropas británicas mataron a 400 manifestantes indios.

Durante la primera guerra mundial, definió su postura política como pacifista exenta de nacionalismo. 

En sus últimos años, se dedicó casi por completo a la administración de su centro de estudios, y en Agosto de 1941, muere a la edad de 63 años en Shantiniketan, a unos 160 kilómetros de Calcuta. Esta escuela fundada por Tagore se convirtió más tarde en la Universidad Visva Bharati en 1951 por una ley del paramento.

Fuentes buscabiografias.com, Wikipedia, biografiasyvida.com y lasociedadbiografica.com

[fruityyamenrunner]

Cowling refers approvingly to Victorians "not falling for the Brahmo Samaj" and becoming lazy universalists, but what is the Brahmo Samaj?

it looks awfully like Unitarian Universalism for Hindus

The Brahmo Samaj was a monotheistic sect of Hinduism. The movement began through meetings of Bengalis in Calcutta in 1828. One of the leading figures was Ram Mohun Roy. This group was known as the Brahmo Sabha. In 1831, Roy visited England as a reforming ambassador and died there in 1833. He was buried in Bristol and his funeral sermon was conducted by Lant Carpenter, a Unitarian minister.

Debendranath Tagore, the father of Rabindranath Tagore, was a key member of the Brahmo Sabha. In 1843 he was involved in the creation of the Brahmo Samaj. Keshub Chunder Sen, a disciple of Tagore, joined the Samaj in 1857 but broke away in a formal schism in 1866. This schism was called the Brahmo Samaj of India. In 1870, Sen visited Britain and met with Mary Carpenter, the daughter of Lant Carpenter. Together they founded the National Indian Association, an organization designed to promote social reform in India and provide a meeting place for Indians and British people in Britain. Sen returned to India and created a major schism in the reforming society of the Brahmo Samaj when he married his 14-year-old daughter to the Maharaja of Cooch Behar, violating the Brahmo Marriage Act.

However, the Brahmo Samaj (in its various guises) continued to flourish in India and particularly Bengal. Rabindranath Tagore's Visva Bharati University was founded in 1921 as an expression of Brahmo universalism. The influence of Ram Mohun Roy and Keshub Chunder Sen in Britain could also be seen into the twentieth century. The cemetery where Roy was buried became a pilgrimage spot for Brahmos visiting the UK and the National Indian Association convened annual remembrances on the anniversary of Sen's death.

[clearholidaysindia]

Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama Tourist Spot in Shimla,Himachal Pradesh

Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, is a peaceful retreat for those seeking spiritual growth and tranquility. Established in 2014 in buildings that once belonged to the Himalayan Brahmo Samaj, this ashrama is known for its calm atmosphere and modern facilities, providing a serene space for meditation and spiritual guidance. For travelers looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, there are several offbeat places near Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama that offer a unique glimpse into the rich culture and natural beauty of Shimla.

Among the many places to visit near Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, one standout is the Viceregal Lodge, also known as Rashtrapati Niwas. Located just a short drive away, this historic building was the former residence of the British Viceroy of India and is now a museum. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about India’s colonial history while enjoying the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens surrounding the lodge. The views from the lodge are breathtaking, with lush greenery and panoramic views of the Shimla hills.

Another charming destination close to the ashrama is the Shimla State Museum, which showcases Himachal Pradesh's rich cultural heritage. It houses a diverse collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, handicrafts, and photographs that provide insight into the region's history and art. For those interested in exploring places to visit near Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, this museum offers a perfect blend of history and culture, making it a must-visit spot for curious travelers. Each of these destinations adds a different flavor to your journey, making your stay near the Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama a truly memorable experience.

[kirtijolapara]

Koti Koti Naman to the great social reformer and founder of Brahmo Samaj, Raja Rammohan Roy ji on his punyatithi.

[twnenglish]

Swami Vivekananda: Life Lessons From The Great Young Leader

The date of Swami Vivekananda's birth has been designated as National Youth Day. the first youth icon. someone who inspires future generations. Even if there are a lot of lessons to be learned from the lives of great people in the past, we rarely know how to put those lessons into action. We have first provided a list of seven beautiful lessons from Swami Vivekananda's life, along with suggestions on how we can apply them to our own.

Swami Vivekananda is a symbol of philosophy, courage, innovative thinking, strength, and knowledge. Among the populace, a legend, Swami Vivekananda, born as Narendra Nath Dutta on January 12, 1863, is our young leader. His lessons focus on a variety of topics, including religion, faith, education, spirituality, and humanity. On this precious occasion, we will discuss 7 life lessons from Swami Vivekananda.

#SwamiVivekananda #NationalYouthDay2023

The birth date of Swami Vivekananda has been designated as National Youth Day . The very first youth icon. Someone who inspires future generations. Swamiji's teachings motivate us to achieve success and live a more meaningful life. His teachings and lessons on love, life, and spirituality have inspired people all over the world for years.

Since young people represent the nation's future, the primary goal of the day's celebration is to inspire young people and direct their energies into nation-building. With 70% of its population under the age of 35, India has one of the youngest populations in the world.

In addition to being a spiritual leader, Swami Ji was also a great patriot, visionary leader, persuasive speaker, well-known writer, original thinker, and a great philanthropist. Through his speech at the World's Parliament of Religion on September 11, 1893, in Chicago, United States, he had a significant influence on the western world regarding the Indian philosophies of Vedanta (religion of mankind) and Yoga. Whether we are students, teachers, regular people, or business professionals, his lessons provide our lives with good impetus.

The Indian prime minister, Mr. Narendra Modi, greatly admired Swami Vivekananda. He has hopes about India becoming a "Vishwa Guru" on the international stage, as Swami Vivekananda once said, "I can definitely envision Bharat emerging as a Vishwa Guru on the international stage."

The Indian prime minister, Mr. Narendra Modi, greatly admired Swami Vivekananda. He has hopes about India becoming a "Vishwa Guru" on the international stage, as Swami Vivekananda once said, "I can definitely envision Bharat emerging as a Vishwa Guru on the international stage."

Life of Swami Vivekananda

Swami Vivekananda: who was he? He stands for philosophy, bravery, forward-thinking, power, and knowledge. a myth among the populace. Swami Vivekananda had seven siblings when he was born on January 12, 1863, as Narendra Nath Dutta. Narendranath was an extremely intelligent child who continuously did well in school from a young age. India was governed by the British at the time of his youth. Knowing that English is the language of the British, he originally put off studying it for a while, but he eventually had to because it was required for his coursework. He developed interests in a variety of topics, including bodybuilding, gymnastics, music, and sports.

After earning his M.A. in philosophy from a school in Kolkata, he went on to become a renowned philosopher. His sermons placed a strong emphasis on various facets of religion, faith, learning, spirituality, and humanity. He set out on a quest to disseminate Ramakrishna Paramahansa's teachings.

Narendranath then adopted the name Swami Vivekananda. Among his many other accomplishments, Ramakrishna was dedicated to eradicating poverty and misery, promoting religious harmony, and advancing social welfare through his work with the Brahmo Samaj and Ramakrishna Mission.

Swami Vivekananda's beliefs, as well as his hardships and accomplishments, may teach us a lot. Here are some life lessons from Swami Vivekananda. These lessons from his life and teachings will inspire you to aim higher and live life fearlessly.

To Read This Full ARTICLE, Click Here

[stackgeeks]

Hindu Marriage Registration

Matrimony holds a sacred place among the 16 samskars of Hindus, signifying a profound connection. The woman is revered as ardhangini, the better half who completes a man in every aspect. Strengthening this sacred union is the hindu marriage registration Act of 1955, an integral addition to the Sastrik laws governing Hindu marriages.

Hindu Marriage Act: Nurturing Sacred Bonds

The Hindu Marriage Act delineates the rights and responsibilities of spouses, presenting a remarkable embodiment of Sastrik laws governing Hindu unions. An amendment to these laws, the Act introduces the concepts of separation and divorce, providing a comprehensive legal framework for Hindu marriages.

Applicability Across a Diverse Nation

In a sovereign nation like India, where diverse religions coexist, the hindu marriage registration Act plays a pivotal role. Hinduism, being the predominant faith, encompasses a rich culture where marriage is regarded as the purest and strongest bond. Applicable to those of Hindu origin, including Lingayats, followers of Arya Samaj, Prarthna, or Brahmo, the Act also extends its reach to Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs. Excluding Muslims, Christians, Persians, or Jews, the Act is applicable to any person belonging to the Hindu religion, domiciled in territories governed by Hindu law.

Nature of Hindu Marriage: A Sacred Blend

A Hindu marriage, rooted in tradition, is not merely a sacrament but also a contract, representing a unique blend of these two facets. Governed by specific conditions, a valid Hindu marriage necessitates adherence to these key aspects:

Single Marriage: Hindu law strictly prohibits more than one marriage, declaring it null and void with a punishment of seven years. The second marriage can be annulled upon the request of the spouse.

Mental Capacity: Parties entering into marriage must be of sound mind, free from mental disorders or insanity.

Age Requirement: The bride should be at least 18 years old, and the groom should be a minimum of 21 years old. Failure to meet this condition renders the marriage valid but punishable under section 18, with imprisonment, a fine, or both.

Prohibited Degrees: Marriages within prohibited degrees are void unless custom permits otherwise.

Visit this website for complete details...

Hindu Marriage

[affairsmastery]

Raja Ram Mohan Roy

Known as ‘Father of modern India’

Also known as ‘Father of Indian journalism’

Books – ‘Gift to Monotheist’ in Persian in 1809 ‘Precept of Jesus’ in 1820

Instituions – ‘Atmiya Sabha’ in 1814 Support to David heir to establish Hindu college(Calcutta)-1817 Run a English School in Calcutta on his own expenses-1817 ‘Vedanta College’ in 1825 Brahmo Sabha(later known as Brahmo Samaj )in  August,1828

Read full article

[odishadetails]

Mother Teresa

Swami Vivekananda Date of Birth: January12, 1863

Place of Birth: Calcutta, Bengal Presidency (Now Kolkata in West Bengal)

Parents: Vishwanath Dutta (Father) and Bhuvaneshwari Devi (Mother)

Education: Calcutta Metropolitan School; Presidency College, Calcutta

HERE MOTHER TERESA BOOK AVAILABLE

Institutions: Ramakrishna Math; Ramakrishna Mission; Vedanta Society of New York

Religious Views: Hinduism

Philosophy: Advaita Vedanta

Publications: Karma Yoga (1896); Raja Yoga (1896); Lectures from Colombo to Almora (1897); My Master (1901)

Death: July 4, 1902

Place of Death: Belur Math, Belur, Bengal

Memorial: Belur Math, Belur, West Bengal

Swami Vivekananda was a Hindu monk and one of the most celebrated spiritual leaders of India. He was more than just a spiritual mind; he was a prolific thinker, great orator and passionate patriot. He carried on the free-thinking philosophy of his guru, Ramakrishna Paramhansa forward into a new paradigm. He worked tirelessly towards betterment of the society, in servitude of the poor and needy, dedicating his all for his country. He was responsible for the revival of Hindu spiritualism and established Hinduism as a revered religion on world stage. His message of universal brotherhood and self-awakening remains relevant especially in the current backdrop of widespread political turmoil around the world. The young monk and his teachings have been an inspiration to many, and his words have become goals of self-improvement especially for the youth of the country. For this very reason, his birthday, January 12, is celebrated as the National Youth Day in India.

Early Life and Education

Born Narendranath Dutta, into an affluent Bengali family in Calcutta, Vivekananda was one of the eight children of Vishwanath Dutta and Bhuvaneshwari Devi. He was born on January 12, 1863, on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. Father Vishwanath was a successful attorney with considerable influence in society. Narendranath’s mother Bhuvaneshwari was a woman endowed with a strong, God-fearing mind who had a great impact on her son.

As a young boy, Narendranath displayed sharp intellect. His mischievous nature belied his interest in music, both instrumental as well as vocal. He excelled in his studies as well, first at the Metropolitan institution, and later at the Presidency College in Calcutta. By the time he graduated from the college, he had acquired a vast knowledge of different subjects. He was active in sports, gymnastics, wrestling and body building. He was an avid reader and read up on almost everything under the sun. He perused the Hindu scriptures like the Bhagvad Gita and the Upanishads on one hand, while on the other hand he studied western philosophy, history and spirituality by David Hume, Johann Gottlieb Fichte and Herbert Spencer.

Spiritual Crisis and Relationship with Ramkrishna Paramhansa

Although Narendranath’s mother was a devout woman and he had grown up in a religious atmosphere at home, he underwent a deep spiritual crisis at the start of his youth. His well-studied knowledge led him to question the existence of God and for some time he believed in Agnosticism. Yet he could not completely ignore the existence of a Supreme Being. He became associated with Brahmo Movement led by Keshab Chandra Sen, for some time. The Bramho Samaj recognised one God unlike the idol-worshipping, superstition-ridden Hinduism. The host of philosophical questions regarding the existence of God roiling through his mind remained unanswered. During this spiritual crisis, Vivekananda first heard about Sri Ramakrishna from William Hastie, the Principal of the Scottish Church College.

Earlier, to satisfy his intellectual quest for God, Narendranath visited prominent spiritual leaders from all religions, asking them a single question, “Have you seen God?” Each time he came away without a satisfying answer. He put forward the same question to Sri Ramkrishna at his residence in Dakshinewar Kali Temple compounds. Without a moment's hesitation, Sri Ramakrishna replied: "Yes, I have. I see God as clearly as I see you, only in a much deeper sense." Vivekananda, initially unimpressed by the simplicity of Ramkrishna, was astonished with Ramakrishna's reply. Ramakrishna gradually won over this argumentative young man with his patience and love. The more Narendranath visited Dakshineshwar, the more his questions were answered.

Spiritual Awakening

In 1884, Naredranath underwent a considerable financial distress due to the death of his father as he had to support his mother and younger siblings. He asked Ramakrishna to pray to the Goddess for the financial welfare of his family. On Ramakrishna’s suggestion he himself went to the temple to pray. But once he faced the Goddess he could not ask for money and wealth, instead he asked for ‘Vivek’ (conscience) and ‘Bairagya’ (reclusion). That day marked the complete spiritual awakening of Narendranath and he found himself drawn to an ascetic way of life.

Life of a Monk

During the middle of 1885, Ramakrishna, who had been suffering from throat cancer, fell seriously ill. In September 1885, Sri Ramakrishna was moved to Shyampukur in Culcutta, and a few months later Narendranath took a rented villa at Cossipore. Here, he formed a group of young people who were ardent followers of Sri Ramakrishna and together they nursed their Guru with devoted care. On 16 August 1886, Sri Ramakrishna gave up his mortal body.

After the demise of Sri Ramakrishna, around fifteen of his disciples including Narendranath began to live together in a dilapidated building at Baranagar in North Calcutta, which was named Ramakrishna Math, the monastic order of Ramakrishna. Here, in 1887, they formally renounced all ties to the world and took vows of monkhood. The brotherhood rechristened themselves and Narendranath emerged as Vivekananda meaning "the bliss of discerning wisdom".

The brotherhood lived off on alms donated voluntarily by patrons during holy begging or ‘madhukari’, performed yoga and meditation. Vivekananda left the Math in 1886 and went on a tour of India on foot as a ‘Parivrajak’. He travelled the breadth of the country, absorbing much of the social, cultural and religious aspects of the people he came in contact with. He witnessed the adversities of life that the common people faced, their ailments, and vowed to dedicate his life to bring relief to these suffering.

Lecture at the World Parliament of Religions

During the course of his wanderings, he came to know about the World Parliament of Religions being held in Chicago, America in 1893. He was keen to attend the meeting, to represent India, Hinduism and his Guru Sri Ramakrishna’s philosophies. He found assertion of his wishes while he was meditating on the rocks of Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. Money was raised by his disciples in Madras (now Chennai) and Ajit Singh, Raja of Khetri, and Vivekananda left for Chicago on May 31, 1893 from Bombay.

He faced insurmountable hardships on his way to Chicago, but his spirits remained as indomitable as ever. On 11 September 1893, when the time came, he took the stage and stunned everyone with his opening line “My brothers and sisters of America”. He received a standing ovation from the audience for the opening phrase. He went on to describe the principles of Vedanta and their spiritual significance, putting Hinduism on the map of World Religions.

He spent the next two and a half years in America and founded the Vedanta Society of New York in 1894. He also travelled to the United Kingdom to preach the tenets of the Vedanta and Hindu Spiritualism to the western world.

Teachings and Ramakrishna Mission

Vivekananda returned to India in 1897 amidst warm reception from the common and royal alike. He reached Calcutta after a series of lectures across the country and founded the Ramakrishna Mission on May 1, 1897 at Belur Math near Calcutta. The goals of the Ramakrishna Mission were based on the ideals of Karma Yoga and its primary objective was to serve the poor and distressed population of the country. The Ramakrishna Mission undertook various forms of social service like establishing and running school, collages and hospitals, propagation of practical tenets of Vedanta through conference, seminars and workshops, initiating relief and rehabilitation work across the country.

His religious conscience was an amalgamation of Sri Ramakrishna’s spiritual teachings of Divine manifestation and his personal internalization of the Advaita Vedanta philosophy. He directed to achieve the divinity of the soul by undertaking selfless work, worship and mental discipline. According to Vivekananda, the ultimate goal is to achieve freedom of the soul and that encompasses the entirety of one’s religion.

Swami Vivekananda was a prominent nationalist, and had the overall welfare of his countrymen topmost in his mind. He urged his fellow countrymen to “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached”.

Death

Swami Vivekananda had predicted that he will not live till the age of forty. On July 4, 1902, he went about his days’ work at the Belur Math, teaching Sanskrit grammar to the pupils. He retired to his room in the evening and died during meditation at around 9. He is said to have attained ‘Mahasamadhi’ and the great saint was cremated on the Banks of river Ganga.

Legacy

Swami Vivekananda revealed to the world the true foundations of India's unity as a nation. He taught how a nation with such a vast diversity can be bound together by a feeling of humanity and brother-hood. Vivekananda emphasized the points of drawbacks of western culture and the contribution of India to overcome those. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose once said: "Swamiji harmonized the East and the West, religion and science, past and present. And that is why he is great. Our countrymen have gained unprecedented self-respect, self-reliance and self-assertion from his teachings." Vivekananda was successful in constructing a virtual bridge between the culture of East and the West. He interpreted the Hindu scriptures, philosophy and the way of life to the Western people. He made them realize that in spite of poverty and backwardness, India had a great contribution to make to world culture. He played a key role in ending India's cultural isolation from the rest of the world.

[adityaypi]

raja ram mohan roy

Raja Ram Mohan Roy FRAS (22 May 1772 – 27 September 1833) was an Indian reformer who was one of the founders of the Brahmo Sabha in 1828, the precursor of the Brahmo Samaj, a social-religious reform movement in the Indian subcontinent. He was given the title of Raja by Akbar II, the Mughal emperor. His influence was apparent in the fields of politics, public administration, education and…

[lowkeynando]

reformer at that time, conducted the wedding at the Madras Brahmo Samaj. Several Brahmo leaders presided over the wedding. This was the first Brahmo wedding to be conducted at Madras Brahmosamaj, and also the first Brahmo wedding of South India. Kausallyaammal was a strong supporter of Gopalan and assisted his social reform activities. Brahmabandhav Upadhyay (born Bhavani Charan Bandyopadhyay) (Bengali

February 1861 - 27 October 1907) was an Indian Bengali theologian, journalist and freedom fighter. [1] He was closely attached with Keshub Chandra Sen, classmate of Swami Vivekananda and close acquaintance of Rabindranath Tagore. [2] Brahmabandhab Upadhyay was born as Bhavani Charan Bandyopadhyay in a Kulin Brahmin family. [3] His father, Debi Charan Bandyopadhyay was a police officer of the British regime. Debicharan had three sons. The eldest was Hari Charan, who became a doctor in Calcutta, the second was Parbati Charan who practiced as a pleader, and the third was Bhavani Charan. He was born in village Khannyan in Hooghly district of undivided Bengal (presently in West Bengal). Bhavani Charan lost his mother Radha Kumari when he was only one year of age and was raised by one of his grand mothers. 4]

Bhavani Charan received his education in institutions such as Scottish Mission Schools, CLONES

[infinityworldnews]

West Bengal Assembly Polls 2021 | Why state political judgment is a struggle between Brahmo Samaj and Arya Samaj esteems

#WestBengal Assembly Polls 2021 | Why state #political judgment is a struggle between #BrahmoSamaj and #AryaSamaj esteems

For almost twenty years, BJP pioneers like Narendra Modi have attempted to get Bengal and sort out how the saffron gathering could vanquish the state. It was anything but a simple errand because, by the turn of the century, West Bengal was at that point under Left standard for almost 25 years (the Left Front came to control in 1977). The Left’s triumphant recipe and method of the organization…

[adamyamey]

Swami Dayanand Saraswati

Here is an excerpt from my latest book, “IDEAS, BOMBS, and BULLETS”, which deals with the activities of Indian patriots (including Shyamji Krishnavarma, VD Savarkar, Madame Cama, Madan Lal Dhingra, and VVS Aiyar) in Edwardian London between 1905 and 1910 and what inspired them. The excerpt deals with an aspect of the ‘Ideas’ part of the book’s title. It is concerned with aspects of the life of…

[notasfilosoficas]

“Tengo mi propia versión del optimismo. Si no puedo cruzar una puerta, cruzaré otra o haré otra puerta. Algo maravilloso vendrá, no importa lo oscuro que esté el presente”

Rabindranath Tagore

Fue un poeta, dramaturgo, músico y filósofo del movimiento Brahmo Samaj, un movimiento social y religioso fundado en el siglo XIX y que significa literalmente, la sociedad de los devotos de Dios verdadero. Nació en Calcuta India, en mayo de 1816. Se le considera el más prestigioso escritor indio de comienzos del siglo XX.

Fue el menor de 14 hermanos, de niño vivió rodeado de una atmósfera de publicaciones de revistas literarias y de representaciones musicales y de teatro. Su hermano era un respetado poeta y filósofo y otro de ellos fue el primer miembro de una etnia india admitido en el servicio civil indio, que anteriormente estaba formado solo por blancos.

En 1878, Tagore viajó a Brighton Inglaterra, en donde estudió en un colegio privado, y posteriormente en el University College de Londres, misma que dejaría al cabo de un año.

A lo largo de su vida, Tagore mantuvo múltiples contactos con otros intelectuales de la época, en donde destacan, Albert Einstein, Robert Frost, Mahatma Gandhi, Bernard Shaw y H.G.Wells entre otros.

La poesía dominó la reputación literaria de Tagore, aunque también escribió novelas, ensayos e historias cortas, se suman casi un centenar de libros y compuso numerosas canciones. De la prosa de Tagore, sus obras de mas consideración son sus cuentos cortos, y se le atribuye la introducción de este género en la literatura bengalí,

A partir de 1912, recibió numerosas invitaciones para pronunciar conferencias en occidente y en 1913, obtuvo el premio Nobel de Literatura. Gracias a ello, ganó gran popularidad, convirtiéndose en una celebridad de Oriente de las que muy pocos conocían y escuchaban en Occidente. Dos años después de recibir el premio Nobel, el rey Jorge V lo nombró caballero, titulo al que renunció tras la matanza de Amritsar en 1919, cuando las tropas británicas mataron a 400 manifestantes indios.

Durante la primera guerra mundial, definió su postura política como pacifista exenta de nacionalismo. 

En sus últimos años, se dedicó casi por completo a la administración de su centro de estudios, y en Agosto de 1941, muere a la edad de 63 años en Shantiniketan, a unos 160 kilómetros de Calcuta. Esta escuela fundada por Tagore se convirtió más tarde en la Universidad Visva Bharati en 1951 por una ley del paramento.

Fuentes: buscabiografias.com, Wikipedia, biografiasyvida.com y lasociedadbiografica.com