Wednesday, 19 February 2014

Shantiniketan Important information

Shantiniketan
Shantiniketan ,   endowed   with exceptional   scenic   beauty   is considered to be  the  epitome  of Bengali intellect and culture. In 1863, Maharshi   Debendranath   Tagore, father of nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore started an ashram for yoga and   meditation   over   here. Rabindranath began an experimental, 'open-air' classes in 1901 and named the school Shantiniketan or the 'Abode of Peace'.

In 1921, it became Visva Bharati University, which is now recognised as a great centre of oriental education and culture. It functions on Rabindranath's vision of learning, who believed in education as a way of life. The curriculum includes educational, cultural and other activities like agriculture, cottage industries etc.

Tourist Acctration in Shantiniketan

  • Uttarayan
  • Vichitra
  • Poush Mela or Utsav 
  • Vasantotsav 
  • Sriniketan 

Uttarayan complex in the campus is one of the most frequently visited place. Rabindranath Tagore, used to stay here and it was designed by Tagore himself.

Vichitra, a museum housed in this complex exhibits paintings, manuscripts and personal belongings of Rabindranath. The campus lawns are also studded with murals, frescoes and sculptures by some of Rabindranath's contemporaries and students.

Poush Mela or Utsav (Dec.) : It commemorates the day when Rabindranath started the open-air classes at Shantiniketan as well as Maharishi Debendranath's initiation into the Brahmo Samaj. Rabindranatya and Rabindrasangeet programmes are the main attractions of the fair. The folk arts and crafts are also displayed here.

Vasantotsav (Mar./Apr.) : It marks the advent of vasanta (spring). Colourful cultural programmes are held during this time.

Sriniketan (3 kms.) : It is a centre for traditional crafts like, dhokra metalcrafts, bell-metal ware, terracotta clay crafts, weaving, kantha embroidery, batik and leather goods.

REACHING THERE :
Airport: Kotkata (212 kms.).
Railhead :Rolpur (3 kms.),
Road: Connected by road.

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