Rabindranath Tagore's Crisis of Civilization and Post-Colonial Society/ রবীন্দ্রনাথের সভ্যতার সংকট ও উত্তর-ঔপনিবেশিক সমাজ

Abstract

Rabindranath Tagore's essay 'Crisis in Civilization (Sabhyatar Sankat) is a profound critique of colonial rule of Western civilization. Written in 1941 during the final years of British rule in India the essay expresses Tagore's deep disillusionment with Western imperialism and its hypocrisy regarding human values. Initially an admirer of Western literature and philosophy Rabindranath Tagore gradually became disenchanted with the colonial powers. In his essay Rabindranath Tagore not only criticize the colonialism rule but also serves as a philosophical reflection on the true meaning of civilization.

Rabindranath Tagore highlights how British colonialism not only politically subjugated India but also sought to impose cultural dominance. The British justified their rule under the pretense of spreading modern civilization. Tagore challenges the Western notion that technological advancement and military strength alone define civilization. Instead, Rabindranath Tagore argues that true civilization is based on ethical values, mutual respect, and human dignity. He also states that civilization, as translated in Indian languages, lacks an equivalent term, implying that its true essence goes beyond material progress.

One of the key themes in 'Crisis in Civilization' is Rabindranath Tagore's criticism of the moral downfall of the West. According to Rabindranath Tagore, despite its scientific and industrial progress, the West had forsaken fundamental human values. He saw colonial exploitation, global conflicts and racial superiority as symptoms of this ethical decline. The industrial revolution had fueled economic prosperity in Europe but this progress came at the cost of immense suffering in the british colonies. He argues that technology should serve humanity not become a tool for oppression. Furthermore, the rise of fascism and the horrors of war demonstrated how Western civilization was on a self-destructive path.

Despite his critique, Rabindranath Tagore remained hopeful about the future. He believed that humanity could overcome its crises through self-awareness, justice and moral resurgence. His essay carries a universal message- True civilization is not about dominance but about harmony, compassion and shared progress. Even today, in a world marked by economic disparity, cultural imperialism, and conflicts, 'Crisis in Civilization remains relevant. Tagore's vision calls for a civilization built not on exploitation but on human dignity and ethical values.