Rabindra Jayanti, celebrated on the birth anniversary of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, honours the life and legacy of one of India’s greatest poets, philosophers, and cultural icons. Observed primarily on the 25th day of the Bengali month of Boishakh, the day is marked with cultural programmes, recitations, music, and discussions of Tagore’s vast body of work.
Beyond India, the celebration has found resonance among the Bengali diaspora, with many organisations across the UK commemorating the occasion through performances, literary events, and tributes, keeping Tagore’s timeless message of humanism and creativity alive.
‘Robir Robibaar’ is organising their Rabindra Jayanti celebration on 8 May at the Nehru Centre. Speaking about the relevance of celebrating Tagore’s birth anniversary in today’s world, acclaimed singer Sasha Ghoshal (Anirudhya Kumar Ghoshal) said, “As time passes, the celebration of Rabindra Jayanti proves itself to be as relevant as ever. This is because Rabindranath's works span the wide spectrum of human experience and always manifest in truth and beauty, timeless and universal. His songs of prayer, nature, and especially of love, touch our souls. Even his songs of patriotism are so inclusive of all of humanity.
“This year, we are celebrating Rabindra Jayanti on the 8th of May at the Nehru Centre, with a concert based on his last public speech, ‘Crisis in Civilisation’. This was his reaction to the horrors he saw coming from the western world at the height of the second world war. Today, living in a world that seems in perpetual conflict, greed, violence, and moral decay, his words and his songs shine a mirror on us, and provide a glimmer of hope.”
Prayash UK presents Baisakhi Mela 2025, a festive celebration of Baisakhi and Rabindra Jayanti, showcasing music, dance, food, and culture. Held on 10th May at Lampton School Main Hall from 3:00 PM, the event is free and open to all. With classical and folk performances, traditional food stalls, and local business showcases, the Mela brings communities together in a vibrant tribute to Indian heritage.
Audiences can look forward to special performances by Dakshinayan UK and Nritya Tales, with production and music direction by Dr Ananda R.B. Gupta. Emphasising on Tagore's work and beliefs still resonate in contemporary society, organiser Bhaskar Bhattacharjee said, “Rabindranath Tagore’s work and beliefs continue to resonate today, as they reflect every level of life—spiritual, social, and personal. His poems, songs, and stories inspire deep thought, kindness, and a strong connection to one’s roots. His message of harmony among people and cultures still guides us toward a more compassionate and balanced society.”
The Bengal Heritage Foundation (BHF) proudly presents A Bengali Summer in London 2025, a vibrant season of events celebrating Bengali arts, cinema, music, and culture.
Kicking off on 9 May with Rabindra Jayanti 2025, the opening event pays tribute to Rabindranath Tagore’s enduring influence on Indian cinema. In collaboration with the High Commission of India and the Nehru Centre, the evening will explore how iconic filmmakers—from Satyajit Ray to Aparna Sen—have reimagined Tagore’s works on screen.
Audiences can look forward to an immersive cultural experience featuring Rabindra Sangeet, dance, and spoken word, reflecting the timeless themes of love, freedom, and social change in Tagore’s legacy.
On the enduring relevance of Tagore, BHF President Koushik Chatterjee remarked, “Tagore’s works resonate today because they explore timeless themes—love, freedom, identity, and the human quest for meaning. In a world divided by borders and ideologies, his vision reminds us of unity through empathy and imagination. His art transcends nations and languages, offering a universal message of compassion and cultural dialogue. Tagore’s narratives continue to inspire filmmakers, not as relics, but as reflections of today’s struggles and hopes, especially his portrayal of women seeking agency and voice. In honouring him, we don’t just celebrate the past; we embrace a philosophy urging us to live with greater sensitivity, creativity, and courage.”
