Stories by Rabindranath Tagore

Stories by Rabindranath Tagore is a soulful Indian television series that aired on episodic television in 2015. The show is an exceptionally crafted tribute to the Bristol-born Rabindranath Tagore, who emerged as the first non-European Nobel laureate for literature in 1913. The series is presented like an anthology, showcasing adaptations of the timeless short stories penned by the legend himself. Each episode aesthetically presents a standalone narrative, interpretation, or translation of one of Tagore’s compelling short stories.

The series becomes a basket of beautifully woven tales, spread across the societal canvas of the early 20th century Bengal. Every episode brings to life the intricate human relationships evidently portrayed in Tagore's writings. Each story is unique, revealing and rendering profound messages about love, sacrifice, virtue, freedom, and equality. His stories are stark reflections of social trends, issues, and the human ethos prevalent in that era. Despite their historical context, the stories still hold relevance today, resonating with viewers due to the universality of their themes and emotions.

The show resuscitates the period through uncanny detailing and elaborate sets that perfectly mimic the aura of Bengal at the turn of the century. The costumes, the mannerisms, and the language used by the actors add flavor to the overall presentation. The intricate portrayal of the culture and lifestyle of that period, creates intensive realism, and helps viewers to truly immerse themselves into Tagore's world.

Along with the engaging narrative, the series offers a powerful line-up of talented actors who convincingly portray the complex characters penned down by Tagore. The performances are a notable combination of emotional power and subtlety. Each actor rides on the ship of characterization to reflect the intricate facets of human nature brilliantly, turning Tagore's words and descriptions into believable personas on screen.

The background score and music deserve special mention as they flawlessly amalgamate with the theme of each story. The soothing rhythm of Rabindra Sangeet (music composed by Tagore himself) is frequently used providing an intrinsic connection to Tagore’s roots and underlining the cultural context of the narratives. Here, the music doesn't merely act as a decorative element to the storytelling but becomes a character unto itself guiding the viewer through emotional twists and turns.

Directorially, it is quite impressive how the series presents empathetic depictions of the protagonists and their struggles with societal norms, tradition, and morality. It inspects the multi-faceted aspects of their characters, judiciously revealing their innocence, their courage, their fear, their joy, and their sorrow. By weaving their tales through a thread of intricate relationships, the show often becomes a mirror to society, reflecting some hard-hitting truths about the contemporary situation.

While the emphasis lies on exploring human emotions and societal norms, Stories by Rabindranath Tagore does not refrain from confronting ground-breaking issues impacting the society at large. Through its authentic narratives, it addresses issues like women's empowerment, the caste system, child marriage, and the socio-political scenario of that era. In many ways, it becomes a testament to Tagore's progressive thoughts far ahead of his time.

To conclude, Stories by Rabindranath Tagore isn't merely a television series but a priceless collection of valuable thoughts and ideas posed through riveting narratives. A perfect companion for those who have experienced Tagore's charm through his words and an inviting platform for those unfamiliar with his work, this series offers a rich tapestry of love, sacrifice, and breaking free from the societal shackles, the classic themes from the Nobel laureate’s tales.

The series, while paying an ode to Rabindranath Tagore's magnificent work, also acquaints us with the timeless charm of his stories. Every narrative is a heartfelt exploration of human nature and society, set against the captivating backdrop of Bengali traditions, culture, and music. The beautiful blend of masterful storytelling, impressive acting, and meticulous production makes this series a must-watch for anyone appreciating good literature, rich culture, or simply, compelling stories.