The Tagore memorial grove and walking museum, first of its kind in the US, has been unveiled in Houston, Texas, in order to disseminate and pay obeisance to Tagore’s thought of a borderless world, reported the PTI.
Tagore grove, a free and open air, permanent memorial of the poet’s words and thoughts, depicting his message of love, universalism and a borderless world, was inaugurated on Saturday, February 25th, at the Ray Miller Park in Houston, in the presence of the enthusiastic diaspora.
Several public officials attended the unveiling of the Tagore grove including the consul general of India, Aseem Mahajan, Fort Bend County judge KP George and Fort Bend County commissioner Andy Myers. Jon Boles, retired professor of American History at Rice University and officials representing Houston mayor Sylvester Turner are also among the big names who attended the event.
The memorial is a collaboration between the Tagore Society of Houston (TSH) and the City of Houston Parks Department.
While highlighting Tagore’s message on universalism and world peace, TSH president Gopendu Chakraborti said that the life size bronze statue of Tagore of the grove, was unveiled in 2013. He averred that the statue is only the sixth full figure statue of the poet installed outside his birthplace Kolkata, India, and the first in the US.
Pointing out the cultural diversity of Houston, Consul general Mahajan said that the Tagore grove would only serve the purpose of buttressing the brotherhood and cultural syncretism of Houston. He also added that the inauguration bore much significance as it coincided with India’s celebration of 75 years of independence. The US guests spoke highly of Tagore’s contribution as a poet, philosopher, composer and social reformer. Houston mayor Turner proclamation appreciating the effort and passion behind the unveiling of the Tagore memorial and dedicated February 25th as Tagore Memorial Day.Â
A soulful rendition of songs and works of the poet was presented at the event.
