Author(s): Dr. Sanjay T. Vite

Abstract: Rabindranath Tagore, a pioneer of Indian literature, skillfully explores the perplexing relationship that exists between illusion and truth within the realm of Indian aesthetics through a captivating narrative of metamorphosis and self-discovery in his celebrated play Chitra. The play explores the philosophical conflict between external appearance and inner truth through its protagonist Chitra, a warrior princess who is endowed by the gods with flawless beauty. Tagore uses this theatrical approach to explore how physical beauty can reveal and disguise deeper truths about identity and love. The drama questions conventional concepts of beauty, arguing that real truth is manifested in the acceptance of one’s authentic self rather than in superficial perfection. This view corresponds with Keats’ famous remark, “Beauty is truth, truth beauty,” but Tagore adds his own distinct perspective by illustrating how truth and beauty may coexist. The present research paper analyses the intricate dimensions of illusion and truth in the play Chitra, emphasizing how Tagore’s aesthetic philosophy goes beyond material constraints to offer a comprehensive perspective on human existence in which beauty is identical with the quest of truth. It also focuses on how Tagore rejects materialistic concepts of beauty by using David Hume’s perspective on beauty as a subjective experience.

Keywords: Illusions, truth, love, aesthetic, beauty.

DOI:10.61165/sk.publisher.script.writing.2024.27

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Aesthetic Reflections: Analyzing Illusions and Truth in Tagore’s Chitra

Pages:131-134