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The Home And The World 01 Edition, originally written in Bengali (Ghore Baire), was published in 1916. The story is set in the early 20th century in Bengal, when India was fighting for her independence from the British rule. In 1905, The Swadeshi Movement was started to reject all British products and strengthen Indian identity.
The Home And The World 01 Edition shows the life of Bimala, who is married to an educated and kind aristocrat named Nikhil. She is devoted to her husband, and enjoys her role of a traditional housewife. Nikhil takes her to a political rally being conducted by his friend Sandip, whose revolutionary ideas have a deep impact on Bimala. She becomes involved in The Swadeshi Movement, but falls in love with Sandip. The Home And The World showcases to its readers how the female protagonist of the early 20th century struggles between duties inside of her home and with those of the world outside.
Tagore has written a novel that portrays many contrasting pictures. Nikhil is shown as the rational and non-violent man, whereas Sandip will stop at nothing to get what he wants. The Home And The World 01 Edition illustrates the author`s own internal conflict in choosing between
Western ideas, and revolting against Western domination. An important point that Tagore puts across through this brilliant literary work, is how a peaceful protest can radically turn into a violent riot. Thus, aggressive nationalism could do more harm than good for the nation.
The story also paints a picture of the traditional Bengali joint family, and the role of housewives. Set in the backdrop of The Swadeshi
Movement, through Bimala’s character readers are informed about how Bengali women in that period of time were representative of the state of Bengal, and not just their individual households.
The Home And The World 01 Edition is a powerful novel, and a must read. It was adapted into a Bengali film by Satyajit Ray in 1984. It was nominated for the Palme d`Or at the 1984 Cannes Film Festival. Ghore Baire was awarded the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Bengali at India’s 32nd National Film Awards.ISBN-9788186685273
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