Part of: West Bengal Gk set 5

The National Anthem is written by-

Category: West Bengal Gk

Hint: Consider the composer of the song "Jana Gana Mana."

Correct Answer: B) Rabindranath Tagore.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, CLAT

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Indian National Anthem, "Jana Gana Mana," is a significant symbol of national identity and pride in India. It was written by Rabindranath Tagore, a multifaceted literary figure and the first non-European to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature. Tagore was a prolific writer, poet, philosopher, and musician, and his contributions to Indian culture and literature are immense.

The anthem was first sung on December 27, 1911, at the Calcutta Session of the Indian National Congress. It was originally written in Bengali and later translated into Hindi. The anthem was officially adopted on January 24, 1950, after India became a republic. The lyrics of "Jana Gana Mana" are a tribute to the unity and diversity of India, celebrating the country's rich cultural heritage and the spirit of its people.

It is important to distinguish between Rabindranath Tagore and Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, another significant literary figure from Bengal. While Tagore wrote the National Anthem, Chatterjee wrote "Vande Mataram," which is a patriotic song that has also played a significant role in India's freedom struggle. "Vande Mataram" is not the National Anthem but is often sung alongside it in various national events and ceremonies.

The confusion between these two literary figures and their works is common, but it is crucial to understand the specific contributions of each. Rabindranath Tagore's "Jana Gana Mana" is a powerful expression of national unity and pride, reflecting the cultural and spiritual essence of India. It is a reminder of the country's rich literary and cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of its people.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. Bankim Chandra Chatterjee wrote "Vande Mataram," which is a significant patriotic song in India but not the National Anthem. The confusion might arise because both are important literary figures from Bengal.
  • Option B: This option is correct. Rabindranath Tagore wrote the Indian National Anthem, "Jana Gana Mana." He was a celebrated poet, philosopher, and the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. The anthem was adopted officially on January 24, 1950.

Mnemonic: Rabindranath Tagore, R-T, remember "R" for "Rabindranath" and "T" for "Tagore."

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