Nazrul’s use of mythology in The Rebel.

Answer

Comment on Nazrul’s use of mythology in “The Rebel.”

“Rebel” by Kazi Nazrul Islam (1899-1976) is a powerful poem. It contains several mythological elements that point to a rebellion against tyranny and oppression. He uses mythology extensively throughout the poetic lines of Rebel. These mythological elements enrich and uplift the poem to a superior level.

Prometheus as a Symbol of Defiance: Nazrul gathers the figure of Prometheus from Greek mythology, who fought the gods by stealing fire and giving it to humanity. Prometheus challenged the tyrannical rule of the gods and empowered humanity with knowledge and technology. Similarly, in “The Rebel,” Nazrul aligns the rebel persona with Prometheus, symbolizing the act of rebellion as a defiance against oppressive forces. This association highlights the rebel’s role as a catalyst for change and liberation.

Reference to Lord Krishna: By invoking the image of Lord Krishna, known for his role as a warrior and defender of justice in Hindu mythology, Nazrul portrays the rebel as a heroic figure fighting against oppression with divine inspiration and strength. He compared rebels with Krisha’s flute Nazrul says,

My flute’s melodies enthrall

I’m the flute in Lord Krishna’s hands.

When angry, I rouse myself and dart across the boundless sky,

Reference to Gabriel: The comparison of the rebel’s voice and power to the archangel Gabriel is taken from Christian mythology. It reinforces the idea of the rebel as a divine messenger, symbolizing the rebellion as a righteous cause sanctioned by higher powers. The Poet pronounces,

Grappling with the fiery wings of Gabriel, messenger of heaven,

I’m the God-child, vivacious,

Reference to Lord Rama: Nazrul’s reference to Lord Rama is renowned for his righteousness in Hindu mythology. It represents the importance of fighting against injustice and upholding moral integrity, aligning the rebel with the noble ideals embodied by the legendary hero.

Reference to Lord Shiva: By referring to Lord Shiva, known for his destructive power in Hindu mythology, Nazrul emphasizes the rebel’s determination to dismantle the forces of oppression and tyranny, highlighting the necessity of radical action in the pursuit of justice. He says,

I’m  Shiva, my throat blue, I drink poison churned by creation’s ocean of pain,

I’m Byomkesh,  I hold the freely flowing Ganges in my ethereal locks.

Reference to Goddess Kali: The rebel’s ferocity and destructive power are compared to Goddess Kali, the embodiment of feminine strength and destruction in Hindu mythology. This shows the rebel’s willingness to use any means necessary to challenge the existing order and achieve liberation.

Reference to the Mahabharata: The allusion to the Mahabharata, an epic tale of war and righteousness in Hindu mythology, emphasizes the magnitude of the rebel’s struggle against oppression and tyranny. It draws parallels to the epic battle between good and evil.

Reference to the Quran: By referring to the Quran, the holy book of Muslims, Nazrul describes the universal values of justice and equality underpinning the rebel’s cause. It highlights the moral imperative of resisting oppression and standing up for what is right and wrong.

Reference to Sita and Ravana: Drawing upon the story of Sita and Ravana from the Ramayana, Nazrul portrays the rebel’s struggle as Sita, a victim of oppression who must be liberated from the clutches of tyranny. It reinforces the theme of resistance against injustice.

Reference to Parashuram: Depicting Parashuram as a symbol of rebellion and resistance against tyranny. Nazrul emphasizes the rebel’s unwavering commitment to fighting for the oppressed and bringing peace through righteous action.

Nazrul’s skilful incorporation of mythological elements in “Rebel” enriches the poem with cultural and religious symbolism. It enhances its thematic resonance and underscores the timeless significance of rebellion against oppression and tyranny.