Silchar : Assam University celebrated the 165th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore on Saturday with a series of intellectual discussions, cultural performances, and tributes reflecting the enduring relevance of the world poet’s philosophy.

The day-long programme, organised by the 165th Rabindranath Jayanti Celebration Committee, began at the Rabindra Central Library with floral tributes offered by Vice Chancellor Rajive Mohan Pant. Faculty members, students and staff paid homage through renditions of Rabindra Sangeet, creating an atmosphere of reflection and reverence. The ceremony was followed by a symbolic “Potho-Chola” march to the Shahid Minar.

The main attraction of the event was a keynote lecture delivered by Biswatosh Choudhury at the Bipin Chandra Pal Seminar Hall. Speaking on Tagore’s philosophy of the ‘self’, Prof. Choudhury said that the existential question “Who am I?” remained central to the literary and philosophical works of Tagore.

He observed that every individual carries “a version of Rabindranath” within themselves. “The question of identity and purpose is not limited to poets or philosophers. In moments of introspection, every human being becomes part of Tagore’s spiritual journey,” he said.

The second guest of honour, noted Rabindra Sangeet artiste Biswajit Roy Choudhury, spoke on Tagore’s lyrical brilliance and described him as a moral voice of humanism. He said Tagore’s ideals continue to inspire empathy, inclusion and dialogue in society.

Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor Prof. Pant highlighted Tagore’s vision of holistic education and his deep bond with nature. Referring to Tagore’s philosophy behind Visva-Bharati, he said education should focus not only on degrees but on shaping complete human beings. He also remarked that the younger generation is gradually moving away from colonial mindsets and becoming more rooted in their own culture.

The audience was also treated to soulful renditions of Rabindra Sangeet by Shri Biswajit Roy Choudhury, whose performances added a musical dimension to the celebrations.

The inaugural session was conducted by Dr. Joyashri Dey, while Prof. Partha Pratim Paul, Chairman of the celebration committee, delivered the welcome address. Ranjit Das proposed the vote of thanks.

The celebrations also featured performances by students, faculty members and staff from both the Silchar and Diphu campuses of Assam University, paying tribute to the timeless relevance of Tagore in contemporary life.