Uttara University hosts seminar on Rabindranath Tagore

Uttara University hosted a seminar, "Rabindranath in the Test of Time: Challenges and Prospects", on its campus on 22 May, where academics explored the enduring impact of Rabindranath Tagore's literature and philosophy amid modern challenges.

Jointly organised by the Department of Bangla and the Department of English, the event convened distinguished participants from across academia.

Dr Serajul Islam Choudhury, Emeritus Professor, Department of English, Dhaka University, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the significance of Rabindranath's works amid contemporary crises and future possibilities.

Reflecting on Rabindranath's literary vision and his journey as a global humanist, he remarked, "Rabindranath was one of us, deeply embedded in our hearts. He was a Bengali first, then an Indian, and ultimately a global, timeless, and universal figure."

"Our debt to him as a nation is undeniable. His contribution to enriching our literary thought and language is immense. In the cultural evolution of Bengalis and the shaping of Bengali literature for the world, it is impossible to imagine such an existence without Rabindranath."

Uttara University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr Eaysmin Ara Lekha, attended as the chief guest.

She observed, "Rabindranath is not merely a figure of the past confined to a single era; he remains an enduring presence amid every crisis and transition."

"To grasp the depth of his creations, one must break free from conventional thinking, embrace open-minded reflection, and engage in deep concentration. Only then can the true form of the contemporary world be recognised in Rabindranath's light."

She emphasised that Rabindranath's relevance remains strong today.

"In today's complex world, his words resonate more powerfully than ever. Understanding him demands not blind imitation, but an open and discerning mind. Only through independent thought and focus can Rabindranath's timeless philosophy be fully embraced," she added.

Notable participants included Dr Parveen Akther Jemy, Professor, Department of Bangla, Jagannath University; Dr Sohana Mahbub, Professor, Department of Bangla, Dhaka University; Dr Chanchal Kumar Bose, Professor, Department of Bangla, Jagannath University; Momtaz Begum, Professor, Department of Bangla, Uttara University; Dr Faez Mohammad Serajul Hoque, Advisor, Uttara University; and Dr Syeda Afroza Zerin, Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Uttara University.

Speakers explored contemporary facets of Rabindranath's philosophy and the lasting significance of his literature in addressing today's social and cultural challenges.

Professor Dr Sohana Mahbub and Professor Dr Chanchal Kumar Bose analysed Rabindranath's works and ideas, inspiring faculty and students alike.

Speakers expressed hope that these scholarly discussions and Rabindranath's philosophy, as presented during the seminar, would serve as key guiding outcomes by shaping the academic and intellectual development of future generations.

On behalf of the organising committee, Convener Dr Shah Ahmed, Associate Professor, Department of English, thanked the guests, researchers, and everyone involved before formally concluding the seminar.