Raja and Rani by Rabindranath Tagore
Bipin Kisore, a young man of privilege, struggles with his inability to manage finances and maintain a stable lifestyle. His charm and musical talent attract Raja Chittaranjan, who, having regained his property, forms an amateur theatre group and invites Bipin to join. The Raja, a disciplined individual, becomes infatuated with Bipin, much to the dismay of his wife, Rani Basanta Kumari, who views Bipin as a burden and criticizes her husband for his affection towards him. The Rani's jealousy leads to neglect of Bipin, as the household staff, influenced by her disdain, begin to disregard his needs. Despite the Rani's contempt, Bipin remains dignified and refrains from complaining. As the theatre production of "Subhadraharan" approaches, Bipin shines in his role, earning the Rani's reluctant admiration. However, the Raja's feelings shift as he becomes more aware of his wife's opinions, leading him to downplay Bipin's talents. The Rani's influence grows, and she suggests better accommodations for Bipin, but the Raja dismisses her concerns. Eventually, the Raja's interest in Bipin wanes, and he dismisses him without consideration for his future. Bipin, heartbroken and confused by the sudden change in their relationship, reflects on the nature of fate and departs, leaving behind the only bond he cherished.
By Rabindranath Tagore · First published 1910 · Genre: Drama, Tragedy, Romance · 1,531 words
First lines
Bipin Kisore was born 'with a golden spoon in his mouth'; hence he knew how to squander money twice as well as how to earn it. The natural result was that he could not live long in the house where he was born.
He was a delicate young man of comely appearance, an adept in music, a fool in business, and unfit for life's handicap. He rolled along life's road like the wheel of Jagannath's car. He could not long command his wonted style of magnificent living.
What this Textopian page supports
Raja and Rani is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rabindranath Tagore, dated 1910 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Rabindranath Tagore
- Date: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Drama, Tragedy, Romance, Social Commentary, Literary Fiction
- Length: 1,531 words
- Structure: 1 section, 19 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for Raja and Rani by Rabindranath Tagore
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Drama — The narrative revolves around interpersonal conflicts and emotional dynamics between the characters, typical of dramatic literature.
- Tragedy — The story explores themes of unrequited affection and social neglect, leading to the downfall of the protagonist, Bipin.
- Romance — The complex relationships between Raja Chittaranjan, Rani Basanta Kumari, and Bipin Kisore highlight romantic tensions and emotional attachments.
- Social Commentary — The work critiques social hierarchies and the treatment of individuals based on status, reflecting Tagore's observations of society.
Tags
Romance · Folklore · Indian Literature · Tagore's Works · Bengali Literature · Love Story · Mythology · Poetic Prose · Symbolism · Nature Imagery · Social Commentary · Cultural Heritage