Visva-Bharti University has finally replaced the controversial plaques commemorating UNESCO’s world heritage tag to Shantiniketan with a board approved by centre.

Shantiniketan is a town in West Bengal, India, renowned for its cultural and educational significance. It was established by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore in the late 19th century. Shantiniketan translates to "abode of peace" and was founded as an institution where education would be imparted in close connection with nature.

Tagore envisioned a holistic approach to education, blending the best of Western and Indian philosophies, focusing on the arts, music, dance, literature, and nature studies. Visva-Bharati University, established by Tagore in 1921, remains the heart of Shantiniketan, promoting his vision of education.

The town is also known for its vibrant celebration of various cultural festivals like Basanta Utsav (Spring Festival) and Poush Mela, attracting artists, scholars, and tourists from across the world. Shantiniketan's serene environment, artistic ambiance, and rich cultural heritage continue to draw visitors seeking inspiration and education in a unique setting.

Shantiniketan holds significant cultural, educational, and historical importance:

1. Educational Heritage: Shantiniketan is the home of Visva-Bharati University, founded by Rabindranath Tagore. The university embodies Tagore's vision of education that integrates the best of Indian and Western philosophies, emphasizing creativity, art, nature, and a holistic approach to learning.
2. Cultural Hub: The town is a cultural hotspot known for fostering various art forms such as music, dance, literature, painting, and crafts. It has been a gathering place for artists, writers, intellectuals, and students from around the world, contributing to a rich cultural exchange.
3. Tagore's Legacy: Rabindranath Tagore, India's first Nobel Laureate in Literature, established Shantiniketan as a center for learning and creativity. His influence, teachings, and literary works continue to inspire generations globally.
4. Unique Pedagogy: Shantiniketan's educational approach focuses on an open-air classroom concept, encouraging students to learn amidst nature. The emphasis on a close relationship with nature remains a distinctive feature of its educational philosophy.
5. Festivals and Celebrations: Shantiniketan hosts vibrant festivals like Basanta Utsav (Spring Festival) and Poush Mela, attracting numerous visitors and offering a platform for cultural exchange, showcasing traditional music, dance, art, and crafts.
6. Architectural and Natural Beauty: The town's architecture, with its unique buildings and landscapes, is influenced by Tagore's vision of blending art, culture, and nature. Shantiniketan is set in a serene natural environment, with beautiful gardens, tranquil surroundings, and a peaceful ambiance.

Overall, Shantiniketan's significance lies in its role as an educational institution that emphasizes creative learning, its cultural vibrancy, and its preservation of Tagore's philosophies and contributions to literature, education, and arts.

Shantiniketan, located in West Bengal, India, is known for several distinctive features:

1. Visva-Bharati University: Founded by Rabindranath Tagore in 1921, it's the heart of Shantiniketan. The university promotes Tagore's vision of education and offers courses in various disciplines while emphasizing art, music, literature, and a holistic approach to learning.
2. Open-Air Classrooms: Education at Shantiniketan often takes place outdoors, fostering a connection with nature. Students learn amidst the natural surroundings, gardens, and trees, embracing Tagore's belief in the harmony between education and the environment.
3. Cultural Heritage: Shantiniketan is a cultural hub, hosting festivals like Basanta Utsav (Spring Festival) and Poush Mela. These celebrations showcase traditional music, dance, art, and crafts, attracting visitors from across the globe.
4. Tagore's Influence: The town reverberates with Rabindranath Tagore's legacy. His former residence, "Uttarayan," is now a museum dedicated to his life and works. Tagore's influence can be felt in every aspect of Shantiniketan's ethos, from education to the arts.
5. Artistic Environment: Shantiniketan nurtures artistic talents. It's home to Kala Bhavana, the College of Fine Arts, where students are encouraged to explore various art forms, including painting, sculpture, and crafts.
6. Natural Beauty: The town boasts serene landscapes, with lush greenery, gardens, and peaceful surroundings. These natural elements contribute to the tranquil and inspirational atmosphere of Shantiniketan.
7. Traditional Crafts: The town is renowned for its traditional handicrafts like Kantha embroidery, pottery, and batik work. Local artisans create and sell these crafts, adding to the town's cultural richness.
8. Ashram Lifestyle: Shantiniketan follows an ashram-like lifestyle, promoting a sense of community and simplicity. This lifestyle is reflected in the daily routines and interactions among residents and students.

These features collectively make Shantiniketan a unique blend of education, culture, art, and nature, embodying Rabindranath Tagore's philosophy and legacy.