পথকথা: Conserving Rabindra Kacharibari & re-Defining its social & cultural aspects

Abstract

The object of this paper is to assess the significance of art, heritage and cultural preservation of Rabindra Kacharibari located in Shilaidaha, Kushtia. Art and literature is a media for philosophical development that plays a vital role in moulding the lives and lifestyles of people. Among the great pioneers of art and culture in our context, Rabindranath Tagore is charismatic versatile in the world of literature. This paper attempts to explain the necessities of preservation of the great poet’s memories and to establish a place that would reflect his philosophy and rejuvenate the place’s cultural and social values. In addition, another core aspect of this paper is to study and design a hub that would have the facilities to commemorate Tagore, preserve the existing heritage and establish a cultural platform for the locals, artists and tourists. The proposed project is intended to promote and help develop the national culture, specifically that of Kushtia. It will also focus on research and preservation of art and heritage, and provide a meeting ground for art lovers in arranging cultural and film shows, drama, music, dance etc. For a city such as Khulna that has a rich history, it has developed very little in the cultural sector and this project is intended to be an initiation to that. The project will help to promote and facilitate cultural activities and revitalize Rabindranath Tagore’s memory. This in turn will help to strengthen the socio-cultural aspects of the city and its society and thus our culture will be enriched. The idea is to create an environment for learning and creativity. It will also house facilities where research on Tagore’s work will be possible, galleries for artists to display their works on Tagore, a library for his works and the conservation of existing structures as museums that would contain memories of Rabindranath Tagore. The project would act as a social hub for the local people as well as accommodate tourists to explore Tagore’s philosophy and the way he perceived life. The aim is to create a hub that would act as an extension of the renowned tourist place, Rabindra Kuthibari which resides near the site. This in turn will help conserve the Kacharibari and revive its social and cultural aspects. In short, the project is an amalgamation of tourism development and heritage and culture preservation.