Question
Discuss the correlation of nature, man and education in the thoughts of Rabindranath.
Answer
Rabindranath Tagore believed in the fusion of man, nature, and education, which he thought was possible only in a Gurukul-like atmosphere. According to him, for a child, nature is the ideal teacher, and it plays an important role in developing the mind and body of a child. He emphasized the necessity of open air, skies, and green vegetation for the proper development of a young child. Rabindranath was a great admirer of Leo Tolstoy’s simple way of life and love for nature, which influenced him to a great extent. He envisioned Shantiniketan’s environment as a place where the greens of nature were the best teachers for children. In his childhood, while studying at Norman School, Rabindranath missed the open skies and fresh air, which made him realize that a child’s mind always longs for outdoor activities. Therefore, he took the first class of children under a blueberry tree, highlighting the importance of nature in education.
