Subhechcha Ganguly 
Rabindranath Tagore, the first Asian to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, is my favourite author. He was not just a writer, but also a poet, philosopher, musician, painter, and educationist. Born in 1861 in Calcutta (now Kolkata), Tagore reshaped Bengali literature and music in a way that continues to influence generations. His works are timeless, deeply emotional, and full of spiritual depth, which is why I feel a strong personal connection to his writings.
Tagore’s writing touches every aspect of human life — love, nature, freedom, devotion, sorrow, and joy. His poetry collection Gitanjali (Song Offerings), for which he received the Nobel Prize in 1913, is a masterful expression of the divine-human relationship. The language in Gitanjali is simple yet profound, filled with imagery and emotion. Even in translation, his verses touch the soul.
What makes Tagore stand out to me is his ability to combine deep philosophical thought with everyday emotions. Whether it’s the pain of separation in a love poem or the quiet beauty of a tree in bloom, Tagore’s words always carry a powerful meaning. He had a way of seeing beauty in ordinary things, and that teaches me to be more mindful and appreciative of life.
Tagore was also a great storyteller. His short stories like Kabuliwala, The Postmaster, and Atithi explore the human heart with tenderness and realism. His characters, often simple villagers or misunderstood souls, are brought to life with compassion and honesty. These stories stay with me long after I finish reading them.
Portrait of Indian author and poet Rabindranath Tagore, circa 1935. (Photo by Fox Photos/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
Another reason I admire Tagore is because of his progressive thinking. He believed in education, freedom, and the importance of harmony among people of different cultures. He founded Visva-Bharati University in Santiniketan, where learning was connected with nature and creativity. His views on nationalism were ahead of his time — he believed in a global human identity, not just narrow patriotism.
Tagore’s contributions to music are also remarkable. He composed over 2,000 songs, known as Rabindra Sangeet, which are an integral part of Bengali culture. His compositions capture a range of emotions, from the joy of spring to the sorrow of loss. Even India’s national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, was written by him, as was Bangladesh’s anthem, Amar Shonar Bangla.
To me, Rabindranath Tagore is more than an author — he is a guide, a philosopher, and a friend whose words continue to inspire and comfort. His works remind me to stay curious, think deeply, and appreciate the beauty around me. He has taught me that literature is not just about stories or poems, but about understanding life and the human spirit.
That is why Rabindranath Tagore will always remain my favourite author — timeless, wise, and full of heart.
