(BSS) - Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today said Rabindranath Tagore was not only devoted to literature, music or arts, but also possessed profound and farsighted observations on society, economy, science and the universe.

He said a creative individual could maintain deep observation, philosophical insight and social consciousness even amid the turbulent waves of contemporary politics. "Rabindranath was the finest example of that," he added.

Speaking as the chief guest, the minister made the remarks at a discussion hosted by the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy marking the 165th birth anniversary of poet Rabindranath Tagore.

He said, "Rabindranath`s political mindset was highly cautious. After the 1917 Russian Revolution, when the entire world was stirred by socialist philosophy, he highlighted in `Letters from Russia` the conflict between the mechanical nature of communism and the eternal rhythm of human nature following his visit to Russia."

He said that Tagore`s thoughts had also deeply influenced leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru during the then anti-British movement.

Referring to Tagore`s dialogue with scientist Albert Einstein, the minister said, "Despite the limitless advancement of science, Rabindranath`s reflections on the vast world beyond science still astonish us today."

Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy DG Rezauddin Stalin chaired the event while Vice-Chancellor of the Dhaka University Professor Dr. A B M Obaidul Islam delivered the keynote speech.

State Minister for Social Welfare Farzana Sharmin Putul and President of Bishwa Shahitya Kendro Professor Abdullah Abu Sayeed addressed the programme as special guests, among others.