"Every poet and prophet smeared with lard" – why did the Hungarians go crazy for Rabindranath Tagore when he came here 100 years ago?

Rabindranath Tagore, born on May 7, 1861, in Kolkata, emerged from a prominent Brahmin family. Raised primarily by servants, he developed a love for reading and the arts. His upbringing in a culturally rich environment fostered his creativity, leading to a prolific career as a poet, novelist, and philosopher. Tagore's works, blending classical Bengali poetry with folk traditions, gained immense popularity. He advocated for cultural cooperation over nationalism and criticized imperialism and capitalism. His experiences in England influenced his vision of harmonious coexistence between East and West. Despite personal tragedies, including the loss of his wife and children, he founded an ashram in Santiniketan, promoting education and spirituality. Tagore faced misinterpretations of his work but defended his ideas vigorously.