How does Tagore Describe the Present State of His Country in Where the Mind is Without Fear? 

Answer

How does Tagore describe the present state of his country? 

Rabindranath Tagore’s (1861-1941) poem “Where the Mind is Without Fear” (originally published in 1910) reflects his vision for an ideal India. The poem represents Tagore’s vision of a new and awakened India. Through the poem, Tagore reveals his hopes and dreams for a free, enlightened, and united society. Tagore subtly reveals his dissatisfaction with the social and political issues of his time under British rule.

Fear and Oppression: At the beginning of the poem, Tagore suggests that fear is a major issue in his country. 

Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high;

This fear comes from British rule, where people feel threatened, oppressed, and restricted from expressing their thoughts openly. This line hints at the restrictions placed on Indians by the British government. It reveals that people need freedom from oppression. Tagore wishes for a country where people can walk with dignity. However, colonial rule has deprived them of this pride.

Limited Access to Knowledge: Tagore wishes for a nation where knowledge has a free flow.

Where knowledge is free;

It suggests that knowledge is not freely accessible in Tagore’s state. Due to economic and social barriers, education is reserved mainly for the wealthy and privileged. Education is not accessible for poor and lower-caste people. Tagore longs for a society where everyone, regardless of their social status, has the opportunity to learn and grow.

Divisions and Social Fragmentation: Tagore mentions “narrow domestic walls” to reveal that India is divided by barriers like caste and religion. These divisions keep people apart and create conflict. Tagore imagines a world where people are united and open-hearted, but his country is currently fragmented by narrow-minded thinking and prejudice.

Lack of Truthfulness: Tagore’s poem also implies that honesty is rare in his society. People are often afraid to speak the truth openly due to political pressures or social norms. He dreams of