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 a place where people can express their true feelings and beliefs without fear of punishment.

Superstitions and Absence of Progress: Tagore criticizes the lack of progress and rationality in his country. Tagore is frustrated with the outdated traditions and superstitions which hinder progress and intellectual growth. He feels that India is stuck in old habits that block creativity and innovation. He longs for a society that values reason and embraces new ideas.

Need for Divine Guidance: Tagore prays to God to save his nation from this terrible state. He ends the poem with the following line:

Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake.

This prayer reflects his belief that the people of India need a spiritual awakening to break free from narrow thinking. He envisions a country where people are open-minded and proactive.

In conclusion, Tagore contrasts his ideal vision with the harsh reality of his country under colonial rule. The fear, divisions, lack of education, and absence of rationality reveal his deep concerns about India’s condition. Through this poem, Tagore not only criticizes the present state but also inspires readers to work toward a united, free, and enlightened society.