The well-known Indian poet, writer, philosopher, and social reformer Rabindranath Tagore began his more than 50-day journey across China on April 12, 1924, when he arrived in Shanghai. The journey was made a century ago. Six academics and artists from India visited Shanghai from April 14 to 16, 2024, as part of a mission to “Retrace the Footsteps of Tagore” in remembrance of this momentous occasion.

On April 15, 2024, Fu Jihong, Vice President of the Shanghai People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (SPAFFC), met with the visiting delegation. He acknowledged that Tagore, a cherished friend to the Chinese people, had commenced and concluded all his three visits to China in Shanghai, thereby etching an enduring mark upon the city’s cultural landscape and establishing an inseparable bond. Shanghai also bore witness to Tagore’s profound affection and support for China, the vibrant exchanges between the two ancient civilizations, and the deep-seated friendship between the peoples of China and India.

The Indian group participated in cultural exchanges at Shanghai Jinyuan Senior High School and Shanghai Municipal Archives when they were in Shanghai. They also paid homage to places like Siming Villa and the Huishan Wharf Site which had a special meaning for Tagore during his earlier trips and stays in the city. They paid their respects to the Tagore statue at the intersection of Nanchang Road and Maoming Road. Additionally, the delegation took part in the celebration of the “Centenary of Tagore’s Visit to China” that was held at Tongji University.

Many poignant moments and heartwarming events involving both old friends and new acquaintances characterized the encounters.

A great way to remember Tagore.

Priyanka Dutta