Tagore a multifaceted personality who shaped many institutions, says PM Modi

Ahead of the 165th birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said he was not only a great writer and thinker, but also shaped many renowned institutions.

In his monthly radio address 'Mann Ki Baat', Modi also hailed an organisation in Chile promoting the teachings of Lord Buddha, which he said are relevant even now and are essential for the future.

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On May 9, on the occasion of 'Pochishe Boishakh' (25th day in the first month of the Bengali calendar), the country will celebrate Gurudev Tagore's birth anniversary, Modi said.

"Gurudev was a multifaceted personality. He was not only a great writer and thinker, but also shaped many renowned institutions," Modi said.

According to the prime minister, Tagore also advocated for industries that provided sustainable employment and benefited villages.

The influence of 'Rabindra Sangeet' (songs penned and composed by Tagore) is seen worldwide even today, Modi said.

"My visits to Shantiniketan will remain unforgettable. It is the very institution that Tagore nurtured and shaped with unwavering dedication. My humble tribute to him once again," Modi said.

Highlighting that many festivals were lined up in April and May in different parts of the country, he said the upcoming Buddha Purnima (May 1) inspires everyone to enhance peace, embrace compassion and move forward with balance.

"An organisation in Chile, South America, is promoting the teachings of Bhagwan Buddha by connecting meditation and compassion to people's lives. This endeavour is being conducted under the counsel of Ladakh-born Drubpon Otzer Rinpoche," he said.

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"The stupa in the Cochiguaz Valley gives people a sense of peace. It is truly a matter of pride to see India's ancient stream reaching the world. People from far-flung areas are also joining in," he said.

Modi added that the Buddhist tradition also teaches people to connect with nature, underlining that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under a tree.

"Nature is an integral part of people's lives, and such efforts are underway across the country. The Karma monastery in Karnataka is a good example. It is a vibrant forest area, spread over 100 acres, where more than 700 native trees have been preserved," he said.

"Buddha's message is not just about the past. It is relevant even today and is essential for the future," Modi said.