Shyama and Chandalika

• Author: Rabindranath Tagore
• Publisher: Bee Books
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 9391618405
• ISBN-13: 978-9391618407
• Pages: 40 pages

About the Book

Shyama and Chandalika is an abridged and translated version of two famous dance dramas written by Rabindranath Tagore, one of India's greatest literary figures. In this edition, the complex language of the original works has been simplified to make them more accessible, especially for modern readers, including children.

The book features two poignant tales:

• Shyama is a narrative that reflects the emotional and spiritual depth of Tagore's writing, exploring themes of devotion, love, and the struggle for identity.
• Chandalika is a story that tackles issues of social exclusion and human dignity, illustrating Tagore's sensitivity toward marginalized communities. Through the tale of Chandalika, Tagore delves into the plight of an untouchable girl and her yearning for acceptance.

Both stories, set against the backdrop of Indian culture and values, reflect Tagore's compassionate approach to human nature and the social issues of his time. His themes of love, sacrifice, social justice, and spiritual redemption resonate deeply even today.

Key Features

• Abridged and Simplified for Accessibility: While retaining the essence of Tagore’s work, the stories have been made easier to read and understand for a wider audience.
• Focus on Social Themes: The stories deal with powerful themes such as social discrimination, human dignity, and personal redemption, making them relevant and thought-provoking for modern readers.
• Cultural Heritage: Through these dance dramas, readers can engage with the rich cultural and philosophical heritage of Tagore's Bengal.
• Tagore’s Universality: The stories continue to explore universal human emotions, transcending boundaries of time and geography.

Who Should Read It?

• Young readers and children who are discovering the beauty of Tagore’s work.
• Readers of Indian literature interested in exploring themes of social issues, spirituality, and human emotions.
• Those who want to appreciate Tagore's dance dramas but find his original works too complex or inaccessible.
• Educators looking for simpler versions of Tagore's stories for classroom use.