In Tagore in Tripura: An Enduring Connection, author Khagesh Dev Burman masterfully uncovers a largely forgotten yet profoundly meaningful facet of Rabindranath Tagore’s life, his enduring relationship with the royal family of Tripura. At a time when Tagore’s connection with Shillong is often celebrated in literary and cultural circles, this book shifts the spotlight to a deeper and more influential bond, one forged with the Manikya dynasty over decades and generations. A scion of the Tripura royal lineage himself, Dev Burman brings a rare insider’s perspective, combining documented historical evidence with personal anecdotes and recollections. The book begins with the genesis of this royal-poetic friendship in 1882, when Maharaja Bir Chandra Manikya, grieving the death of a loved one, found solace in Tagore’s early poem Bhagna Hriday. What began as poetic admiration soon blossomed into a lasting partnership, both emotional and intellectual. Maharaja Bir Chandra’s early recognition of Tagore’s genius, bestowing upon him the title of ‘Great Poet’, came at a time when Calcutta’s literary circles were dismissive of his talent. This act of faith not only validated Tagore but also provided the emotional and material support that fueled his creative and philosophical pursuits. In return, the ethos of Tripura found resonance in Tagore’s works such as Rajarshi, Mukut, and Bisarjan, all of which bear traces of the state’s Vaishnavite traditions, ethical dilemmas, and spiritual introspection. One of the most captivating parts of the book is the portrayal of Tagore’s bond with Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya. Here, the poet transcends his traditional role and becomes an adviser, strategist, and confidante. Dev Burman narrates with nuance how Tagore deftly navigated court politics, thwarted scheming courtiers, and gained the king’s unwavering trust shedding light on the lesser-known administrative and diplomatic side of the bard. But the relationship wasn’t just personal or literary. The Manikya rulers played a crucial role in supporting Tagore’s national and cultural missions. Without Tripura’s generous patronage, Visva-Bharati University may not have sustained its early years. The book also reveals how this alliance enabled scientific ventures, including Jagadish Chandra Bose’s historic journey to Cambridge, and contributed to the propagation of the Bengali language in the region, a collaboration that offered a more organic counter-narrative to linguistic imperialism. Through detailed historical accounts, correspondence, and Dev Burman’s own reflections, the book illustrates how this Tagore-Manikya alliance was not merely a poet’s admiration for royal patronage, but a deeply symbiotic relationship that influenced India’s cultural, educational, and intellectual landscape. Verdict: Tagore in Tripura is more than just a literary chronicle; it is a testament to how cultural greatness often rests on unsung partnerships. With grace and scholarship, Khagesh Dev Burman revives a forgotten yet vital thread in Tagore’s journey. The book stands as a tribute not only to the poet but also to the enlightened monarchs of Tripura, whose vision, affection, and generosity shaped one of modern India’s most luminous minds. A must-read for scholars, Tagore enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the nuanced intersections of literature, politics, and history.
