Moving through lanes of memory and art

Jorasanko Thakur Bari, ensconced within the vibrant lanes of Rabindra Sarani in Kolkata, is an emblem of the luxurious and respected legacy of the Tagore family. Most of the men in the household were successful, but the one who was revered worldwide as the first Asian Nobel Prize winner, a multifaceted poet, and an artist was Rabindranath Tagore.

This glorious palace is one of the most talked about, respected, and revered heritage buildings in the city. Rabindranath Tagore lived here when he was young and returned when he was in his ebbing days. Intellectual and literati minds of Kolkata Gaganendranath and Abanindranath Tagore, who began the Bengal School of Art also lived here. As time went by, the members of the family started to disintegrate. Some moved abroad, some in various parts of the country and so Jorasanko Thakur Bari slowly began changing and finally was turned into Rabindra Bharati University. Today this university is sought after for its course in Indian Classical Fine Arts and academic excellence.

This monument also embraces the Rabindra Bharati Museum, which was instituted in 1961. To the Tagore patrons, this is a treasure trove of knowledge where you can get peeps into the poignant lives of the Tagores through intimate exhibits. The locals lovingly call it the Thakur Bari, but to the world, it is the place where Bengal's artistic and cultural resurgence, Bengal Renaissance, and Brahmo Samaj movements were celebrated in full fervour.

Art, architecture written in poetry

The story began in 1784. Nilmoni Tagore, one of the members of the family caught in a family tussle was given a slice of land on the east side of Chitpur Road. It began as a humble abode but slowly started to expand under the wings of Prince Dwarkanath Tagore, Rabindranath's illustrious grandfather.

Echoes of the era of art

Today Jorasanko Thakur Bari spreads over 35,000 square meters, with its resplendent brick-red façade embodying a synthesis of architectural splendor and historical significance. It is adorned by the archetypical rounded verandah that was the vantage point for observing performances at the central natya manch. The Tagores were contemporary people who were driven by a Western, liberal outlook. That is why, they did not believe in the purdah system and encouraged an atmosphere of inclusivity. The women were emancipated, had a mind of their own and were vocal about their opinions on culture, literature, and art-a stance that catalyzed broader societal transformations.

Timings

Opening time - 06:00 AM

Closing time - 04:30 PM

Preserving a legacy

In 1959, the Government of West Bengal conceived the idea of establishing a university in honour of Rabindranath Tagore. This vision culminated in the establishment of Rabindra Bharati University in 1961. Jorasanko became the nerve center of cultural arts like music, dance, and drama. As time went by, the Rabindra Bharati Museum metamorphosed into a treasure trove of Tagore's legacy, chronicling his life and contributions alongside those of his esteemed kin and contemporaries.

Strolling through the life of a master

The museum is brimming with artifacts like family photographs, life-size portraits, and manuscripts, offering visitors an immersive journey through Bengal's cultural renaissance. Visitors soak in the aura of the galleries where Tagore's artistic talent comes to life. Some original paintings and sketches bear testament to his creative genius. It also displays Tagore’s global influence, with exhibits commemorating his interactions with Japan, China, the United States, and Hungary. Visitors can get a rare glimpse into Tagore's private world, from his self-composed wedding invitation to his meticulously crafted paintings, each bearing witness to his indelible mark on literature and the arts. Neighbouring the mansion is the Maharishi Bhavan. This is where Tagore breathed his first and his last. Today the hallowed space reminds people of Tagore’s enduring legacy. They pay homage to the poet's memory and contemplate his profound impact on the world. The Tagores were a family who loved various kinds of cultural events. As a dedication, Jorasanko hosts a myriad of events and festivals, including the annual Panchise Baisakh cultural program commemorating Tagore's birthday. The Aban Mela is also popular as a festival and ;it celebrates Tagore's vision of fostering creativity and artistic expression.

Looking beyond the masterpiece

A few places that are a must-visit around the Jorasanko Thakur Bari is Kumartuli. It is a unique place where most of the artisans of exquisite clay sculptures live and display their talent. The glorious Nakhoda Mosque and the historic Armenian Church also invite tourists with their architectural splendour. Many love to pay a visit to the Marble Palace and experience the rich tapestry of Jewish history at the Magen David Synagogue and Neveh Shalom Synagogue.

A visit to Jorasanko Thakur Bari is not just a journey through history; it is an odyssey into the soul of Bengal-a testament to its enduring spirit of creativity, resilience, and cultural heritage. As visitors traverse its hallowed halls, they are transported to a bygone era, where the echoes of Tagore's verses resound, inspiring generations to come.