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{{short description|Bengali novel written by Rabindranath Tagore}}
{{short description|Bengali novel written by Rabindranath Tagore}}
{{AI-generated|date=September 2025}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2022}}
{{Use Indian English|date=December 2022}}
{{Infobox book
{{Infobox book
| name              = Gora
| name              = Gora
| author            = Rabindranath Tagore
| author            = [[Rabindranath Tagore]]
| language          = [[Bengali language|Bengali]]
| language          = [[Bengali language|Bengali]]
| country          = [[British India]]
| country          = [[British India]]
| genre            = Novel
| genre            = [[Novel]]
| publisher        =  
| publisher        =  
| isbn              =  
| isbn              = 978-8-171-67755-9
| image            = Rabindranath Tagore.jpg
| image            = Gora (Novel) Rabindranath Tagore.jpg
| caption          =  
| caption          = Cover page of Gora ([[Bengali language|Bengali]])
| title_orig        = গোরা (White)
| title_orig        = গোরা (White or Fair)
| translator        =  
| translator        =  
| illustrator      =  
| illustrator      =  
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| dewey            =  
| dewey            =  
| congress          =  
| congress          =  
| preceded_by      =  
| preceded_by      = [[Noukadubi]]
| followed_by      =  
| followed_by      = [[Chaturanga]]
| Pub date          =  
| Pub date          =  
| set_in            = [[Bengal]]
}}
}}
'''''Gora''''' ([[Bengali language|Bengali]]: গোরা) is a novel by [[Rabindranath Tagore]], set in [[Calcutta]] (now Kolkata), in the 1880s during the [[British Raj]]. It is the fifth in order of writing and the longest of Tagore’s twelve novels. It is rich in philosophical debate on politics and religion.<ref>Indian Ruminations (5 January 2012). [http://www.indianruminations.com/contents/review/tagore%E2%80%99s-idea-of-nation-and-nationalism-in-gora-nakul-kundra-amritsar Tagore’s Idea of Nation and Nationalism in Gora – Nakul Kundra, Amritsar]</ref>
'''''Gora''''' ([[Bengali language|Bengali]]: গোরা) is a novel by [[Rabindranath Tagore]], set in [[Calcutta]] (now Kolkata), in the 1880s during the [[British Raj]]. It is the fifth in order of writing and the longest of Tagore's twelve novels. It is rich in philosophical debate on politics and religion.<ref>Indian Ruminations (5 January 2012). [http://www.indianruminations.com/contents/review/tagore%E2%80%99s-idea-of-nation-and-nationalism-in-gora-nakul-kundra-amritsar Tagore’s Idea of Nation and Nationalism in Gora – Nakul Kundra, Amritsar]</ref>
Other themes include liberation, universalism, brotherhood, gender, feminism, caste, class, tradition versus modernity, urban elite versus rural peasants, colonial rule, nationalism and the [[Brahmo Samaj]].<ref name="timesAlive" /><ref name="magic" />
Other themes include liberation, universalism, brotherhood, gender, feminism, caste, class, tradition versus modernity, urban elite versus rural peasants, colonial rule, nationalism and the [[Brahmo Samaj]].<ref name="timesAlive" /><ref name="magic" />
The novel is the longest novel written by Tagore. It deeply influences the Indian society and emerged as a debate between Brahmo Samaj and Hinduism.


==Contents==
==Contents==
''Gora'' consists of two parallel love stories of two pairs of lovers: Gora and Sucharita, Binoy and Lolita. Their emotional development is shown in the background of the social and political problems prevalent in India towards the end of the 19th-century.<ref name="George1993">{{cite book|editor-last=George|editor-first=K. M.|editor-link=K. M. George (writer)|title=Modern Indian Literature: an Anthology: Fiction|volume=2|year=1993|publisher=Sahitya Akademi|location=New Delhi|isbn=81-7201-506-2|pages=89–90}}</ref>
''Gora'' consists of two parallel love stories of two pairs of lovers: Gora and Sucharita, Binoy and Lolita. Their emotional development is shown in the background of the social and political problems prevalent in India towards the end of the 19th-century.<ref name="George1993">{{cite book|editor-last=George|editor-first=K. M.|editor-link=K. M. George (writer)|title=Modern Indian Literature: an Anthology: Fiction|volume=2|year=1993|publisher=Sahitya Akademi|location=New Delhi|isbn=81-7201-506-2|pages=89–90}}</ref>
== Plot ==
The story mainly revolves around its protagonist, Gormohan alias 'Gora', a ‌staunch Hindu Brahmin.<ref>{{Cite book |author=Tagore, Rabindranath |url=http://worldcat.org/oclc/1013463053 |title=Gora |date=28 March 2016 |publisher=CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform |isbn=978-1-5307-8000-6 |oclc=1013463053}}</ref> Gora is a young man with a well-built body, good stature, white complexion, and a heavy voice. Because of his physique, he is the head of his circle of friends. Despite not being handsome, Gora is considered attractive because of his heavy speech and high stature. Gora's best friend is Binoybhushan aka Binoy. Binoy is a friendly and handsome young man. He has a special affection for Gora's mother Anandamayi, and regards Anandamayi as his mother as he was orphaned as a child. One day Binoy meets a [[Brahmo Samaj]]i Paresh Babu and his daughter Sucharita when their wagon crashes outside Binoy's house. Binoy helps them, and starts visiting their house. And then Binoy is introduced to Paresh Babu, his wife Varadasundari, his eldest daughter Lavanya, middle daughter Lalita, and younger daughter Leela. Along with them, he is introduced to Sucharita, the adopted daughter of Paresh Babu, and Satish, Sucharita's real brother. At the time of the story there is an ongoing conflict between the Brahmo Samaj and Hinduism; as Gora is a staunch Hindu who believes in untouchability, he forbids Binoy to meet Paresh Babu and his family. This leads to an argument between the two. Gora accuses Binoy of being attracted to Paresh Babu's daughter, but Binoy denies this. Gora's father Krishnadayal, a good friend of Paresh Babu, one day urges Gora to visit Paresh Babu's house to inquire about his well-being. When Gora goes there, Binoy is already present, disappointing and angering Gora. There, Gora is introduced to Haran alias Panu Babu, who is Bengali but has special affection for the British. Haran Babu is a special head of the Brahmo Samaj, and is going to marry Sucharita. Due to Gora's being Hindu, he does not get the same respect at Paresh Babu's house as Binoy did. He gets into an argument with Haran Babu. Sucharita, who earlier saw Gora as inferior because of his fanaticism, supports Gora by not supporting Haran Babu in the debate. Gora is then very angry with Binoy, but due to his special affection for him cannot leave him.
Later, Gora has to go to Paresh Babu's house once again, where Gora's love for Sucharita awakens; Sucharita reciprocates those feelings. Gora, who has sworn that he will never marry, feels deeply guilty about this and immediately sets off on an unknown journey. Varadasundari gets along well with Magistrate Brownlow, and she chooses Binoy and Lalita to star in a show at his house. Gora travels to a village which is haunted by the atrocities of the magistrate and the superintendent. He vows to bring justice to the village and rebels against the magistrate. Enraged by this, the magistrates send Gora to jail for a month without trial for any crime. Hearing this, Lalita, who cannot tolerate injustice, is enraged. Due to this she comes home overnight on a steamer with Binoy. The steamer incident — that a Brahmo girl has come alone with a Hindu boy at night — stirs up the Brahmo Samaj. Lalita becomes notorious, so Varadasundari blames Binoy. Binoy agrees to join the Brahmo Samaj under societal pressure, but Gora objects to it, with Lalita also forbidding Binoy from doing so. Meanwhile, Sucharita's widowed maternal aunt, Harimohini, visits Poresh's house and her being a Hindu arises conflict between her and Poresh's wife, Varadasundari. Seeing this conflict, Poresh reveals to Sucharita that she had her own house in the neighbourhood which he bought from Sucharita's father's savings. Sucharita and Harimohini move into the house.
After being released from prison, Gora starts visiting Sucharita's house. Harimohini, who is suspicious of Gora's intention, wants Sucharita to marry her relative, Kailash. Sucharita doesn't accept it and accepts Gora as her guru. Meanwhile, Binoy and Lalita get married with resistance from Varadasundari, Gora, and Binoy's relatives.
When one day, when Krishnadayal falls ill, he informs Gora of the truth about his origins. He explains that Gora is not actually his son, but the son of a Christian Irishman. They had met when he lived in Etawah; when war broke out there, Gora's military father was killed. Gora's mother was dependent on Krishnadayal's goodwill and gave birth to Gora in his house, dying in the process. Krishnadayal has raised him since. In that one moment, Gora's whole life is destroyed, the religion for which he sacrificed his whole life having rejected him. Eventually, Gora accepts Paresh Babu as his guru, after drinking water from Lachmiya's hand.


== Characters ==
== Characters ==


* '''Gora''' is a staunch Hindu and fearless nationalist who is not afraid to shed blood for the cause of nation and religion. Gora's complexion is very fair, and he is of very good stature, so he is the head of his circle. Gora has an inclination towards his mother Anandmayi, and his closest friend is Binoy. When Binoy has a lot to do with Paresh Babu's Brahm family, Gora forbids Binoy to meet Paresh Babu's family, and Gora and Binoy have a fight over this. But, when Gora meets Sucharita, Paresh Babu's adopted daughter, he is attracted to her. However, Gora has taken a vow that he will not marry, so he is ashamed and goes on a journey to make atonement. While on the journey he reaches a Muslim village, he learns of the atrocities committed by the Inspector and the Magistrate. The hardworking Gora vows to bring justice to the village and for this he has to go to jail for a month. After a series of romantic encounters, patriotism and religious fanaticism, Gora discovers that he is a Christian himself. His father Krishnadayal tells him that there was a mutiny once when he lived in Etawah. In this, Gora's military father was killed, who was an Irishman. Gora's mother took shelter at Krishnadayal's house and died giving birth to Gora there. Since then Krishnadayal brought up Gora. Gora's whole life is destroyed in a moment. The religion for which he fought throughout his life rejected him by calling him an untouchable. Eventually Gora has reverence for Paresh Babu, and accepts him as his guru. At the same time, he also drinks water from the hands of Lachmiya, the Christian maid of his mother Anandmayi, which he previously considered disgusting.  
* '''Gormohan aka Gora/Gaur''' is the son of Anandmoyi and Krishnadayal, younger half- brother of Mahim, best friend of Binoy and Sucharita's love interest. He is the protagonist and [[titular character]] of the novel.
* '''Binoy'''  
* '''Binoybhushan aka Binoy (Vinay)''' is Lolita's husband and Gora's best friend.
* '''Sucharita'''  
* '''Sucharita (birth name: Radharani)''' is the adopted daughter of Paresh Babu and Vardasundari and sister of Satish, and her half- sisters, Lolita, Lavanya and Leela.
* '''Lalita'''
* '''Lolita (Lalita)''' is Paresh Babu and Vardasundari's second daughter and Binoy's wife.
* '''Paresh Babu'''
* '''Pareshchandra Bhattacharya aka Paresh Babu''' is the husband of Varadasundari, father of Lavanya, Lolita and Leela.  
* '''Anandmoyi (Anandmayi)''' is the mother of Gora, step mother of Mahim and Krishnadayal's wife. She is an enigmatic spiritual leader, Anandamoyi plays a significant role in shaping Gora's spiritual and philosophical journey. Her teachings challenge Gora's narrow-mindedness and foster a more inclusive understanding of spirituality and human existence.
* '''Haran Babu aka Panu Babu''' A Brahmo Samaji who hates Bengali and Indian culture and impressed with Britishers and jealous of Binoy and Gora as he wants to marry Sucharita.  
* '''Mahim''' step brother of Gora, son of Krishnadayal from his late wife. He is a witty and cunning middle- aged man, who is jealous of Gora and hates her step mother. He is a government employee. He has a daughter, Shashimukhi, and wants to marry her off with Binoy. However, when Binoy marries Lolita, he started hating him.
* '''Krishnadayal''' a staunch Hindu like Gora, father of Mahim, foster father of Gora and husband of Anandmayi.
* '''Harimohini''' maternal aunt of Sucharita and Satish.
* '''Shri Satishchandra Mukhopadhyaya aka Satish''' adopted son of Paresh Babu and Vardasundari and real brother of Sucharita best friend of Binoybhushan. He is a talkative and naught young boy.
* '''Kailash''' brother - in - law of Harimohini
* '''Avinash''' student of Gora
* '''Lavanya''' eldest daughter of Paresh Babu and Vardasundari
* '''Leela''' youngest daughter of Paresh Babu and Vardasundari
* '''Shashimukhi''' daughter of Mahim
* '''Mahim's wife'''
* '''Lachmiya''' [[Christians|Christian]] servant of Anandmoyi<ref>{{Citation |title=Introduction: Novel Characters |date=2010-08-26 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/9781444327984.ch1 |work=Novel Characters |pages=1–21 |access-date=2023-08-04 |place=Oxford, UK |publisher=Wiley-Blackwell |doi=10.1002/9781444327984.ch1 |isbn=978-1-4443-2798-4|url-access=subscription }}</ref>
 
== Themes ==
The theme of Gora, revolves around [[nationalism]], identity, and social reform. It explores the clash between traditional Hindu customs and modern ideas, reflecting the complexities of India during the colonial era. The protagonist, Gora, grapples with questions of identity and cultural belonging, making the novel a profound exploration of self-discovery and societal transformation. In Gora, Rabindranath Tagore also delves into the theme of religious tolerance and the power of love in bridging cultural divides. The novel portrays the characters' struggles with the changing social dynamics and how they navigate their personal beliefs while engaging with broader societal issues. It emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and open-mindedness in addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Throughout the story, Tagore weaves a tapestry of diverse perspectives and ideologies, showcasing the richness of India's cultural heritage. He presents a vivid picture of the social, political, and religious landscape of the time, raising essential questions about unity, diversity, and the role of individuals in shaping their communities.
As Gora grapples with his own identity and tries to reconcile his traditional upbringing with modern ideas, the novel serves as a reflection on the complex interplay between tradition and progress. The exploration of gender roles and the empowerment of women is another prominent aspect of the novel, shedding light on the importance of gender equality and women's agency. Ultimately, Gora is a thought-provoking and deeply philosophical work that transcends time and continues to resonate with readers as they contemplate the intricate relationships between tradition, nationalism, and the human quest for understanding and growth.
 
== Critical reception ==
Gora is considered one of his most significant works in [[Bengali literature]].<ref>{{Citation |last=d'Hubert |first=Thibaut |title=Bengali Literature of Arakan |date=2020-07-30 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/acrefore/9780190277727.013.430 |encyclopedia=Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Asian History |access-date=2023-08-04 |publisher=Oxford University Press|doi=10.1093/acrefore/9780190277727.013.430 |isbn=978-0-19-027772-7 |url-access=subscription }}</ref> It received widespread critical acclaim for its insightful exploration of social and political issues during the [[Colonial India|colonial era in India]]. The novel was first published in 1910 and quickly gained recognition for its thought-provoking narrative and powerful storytelling. Tagore's portrayal of the protagonist Gora, a committed and proud nationalist with fervent belief in Indian traditions, and his interactions with various characters from different backgrounds, reflect the complexities of society and the struggle for cultural identity during the British colonial rule.
 
Critics also appreciated Tagore's lyrical prose and the way he intertwined philosophical musings with social commentary. The novel's exploration of caste, class, and gender issues further highlighted Tagore's progressive ideas and his concern for social reforms. Over the years, "Gora" has been subject to numerous academic studies and literary analyses, and it continues to be a compelling piece of literature that resonates with readers worldwide. Its themes of self-discovery, religious tolerance, and the quest for truth remain relevant even in contemporary times.<ref>{{Citation |title=Criticism of the Novel Contemporary Reception |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.5040/9781472554147.ch-006 |work=Middlemarch : Critical Approaches to the Novel |date=2013 |access-date=2023-08-04 |publisher=Bloomsbury Academic|doi=10.5040/9781472554147.ch-006 |isbn=978-1-4725-1440-0 |url-access=subscription }}</ref>


==Translations==
==Translations==
[[Malayalam]] translation of Gora with the same title was done by Dr. [[K. C. Ajayakumar]]. For this, in 2015, Ajayakumar has won the [[Sahitya Akademi Award]] for translation.<ref>{{cite web |title=..:: SAHITYA : Akademi Awards ::.. |url=http://sahitya-akademi.gov.in/awards/anuvad_samman_suchi.jsp |website=sahitya-akademi.gov.in}}</ref>
The translation of ''Gora'' into English by W. W. Pearson was published in 1924. Half of this version had been revised by Tagore's own nephew, Surendranath Tagore. On the basis of this translation, a French translation was made by Marguerite Glotz in 1927, revised on the Bengali original by Pierre Fallon s.j. and published in 1961; another French translation based on a typescript of the first English translation had been prepared by Madeleine Rolland already in 1923 but was never completed. A new English translation by Sujit Mukherjee, based on the better text of the Bengali ''Collected Works of Rabindranath'' (1941), was issued at the Sahitya Akademy, New Delhi, in 1997. On the same better basis, an English translation by Radha Chakravarty was published by Random House in 2009 (Penguin Modern Classics). A German translation by Helene Meyer-Franck appeared in 1924, and by Gisela Leiste in 1980. A Hindi translation was made by the famous Hindi poet and author [[Agyeya]]. For his [[Malayalam]] translation, Dr. [[K. C. Ajayakumar]] has won in 2015 the [[Sahitya Akademi Award]].<ref>{{cite web |title=..:: SAHITYA : Akademi Awards ::.. |url=http://sahitya-akademi.gov.in/awards/anuvad_samman_suchi.jsp |website=sahitya-akademi.gov.in}}</ref>


==Adaptations==
==Adaptations==
Film adaptations exist from 1938, when director [[Naresh Mitra]] made a Bengali film in the [[Gora (film)|same name]] based on the novel.<ref name="RajadhyakshaWillemen2014">{{cite book|last1=Rajadhyaksha|first1=Ashish |last2=Willemen|first2=Paul |title=Encyclopedia of Indian Cinema|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SLkABAAAQBAJ&pg=PA99|year=2014|publisher=Routledge|isbn=978-1-135-94318-9|page=149}}</ref> and from 2015, directed by Shukla Mitra. In 2012 [[Hindi language|Hindi]] channel [[Doordarshan]] broadcast a 26-episode television series by producer Gargi Sen and director Somnath Sen.<ref name="timesAlive">Times of India ([https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/books/features/Tagores-Gora-to-come-alive-on-television/articleshow/16890545.cms Tagore’s Gora to come alive on television]</ref><ref name="magic">Magic Lantern Movie (5 November 2012). [http://magiclanternmovies.in/blogs/tagores-gora-set-telecast-doordarshans-national-channel Tagore's 'Gora' set for telecast on Doordarshan's national channel].</ref>
Film adaptations exist from 1938, when director [[Naresh Mitra]] made a Bengali film in the [[Gora (film)|same name]] based on the novel.<ref name="RajadhyakshaWillemen2014">{{cite book|last1=Rajadhyaksha|first1=Ashish |last2=Willemen|first2=Paul |title=Encyclopedia of Indian Cinema|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SLkABAAAQBAJ&pg=PA99|year=2014|publisher=Routledge|isbn=978-1-135-94318-9|page=149}}</ref> and from 2015, directed by Shukla Mitra. In 2012 [[Hindi language|Hindi]] channel [[Doordarshan]] broadcast a 26-episode television series by producer Gargi Sen and director Somnath Sen.<ref name="timesAlive">Times of India ([https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/books/features/Tagores-Gora-to-come-alive-on-television/articleshow/16890545.cms Tagore’s Gora to come alive on television]</ref><ref name="magic">Magic Lantern Movie (5 November 2012). [http://magiclanternmovies.in/blogs/tagores-gora-set-telecast-doordarshans-national-channel Tagore's 'Gora' set for telecast on Doordarshan's national channel].</ref>
== Legacy and cultural influence ==
Gora holds immense cultural and literary significance in Bengal and beyond. First published in 1910, it remains a timeless classic that has left a profound impact on Bengali literature and society. The novel delves into themes of identity, nationalism, and social reform, presenting a critique of religious orthodoxy and advocating for universal humanism. Gora challenged prevailing notions of caste and religious divisions, promoting a more inclusive and tolerant society. Through its portrayal of the titular character, Gora, an ardent nationalist with a fervent desire to uplift his people, Tagore depicted the struggle for self-discovery and self-realization. The book questioned traditional norms and called for a reevaluation of societal structures, contributing to the intellectual awakening and cultural renaissance in Bengal during the early 20th century. Tagore's lyrical prose and deep philosophical insights in Gora continue to inspire generations of readers, influencing subsequent literature and shaping the Bengal's literary landscape. The novel's emphasis on individuality, empathy, and unity transcends time and remains relevant to this day. Overall, Gora not only transformed Bengal's literary scene but also played a pivotal role in catalyzing the region's cultural and social transformation, leaving an indelible legacy that continues to resonate with readers and scholars worldwide.<ref>{{Citation |title=The novel's narrative technique |date=1988-04-28 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/9781139166089.005 |work=Conrad: Nostromo |pages=21–47 |access-date=2023-08-04 |publisher=Cambridge University Press|doi=10.1017/9781139166089.005 |isbn=978-0-521-32821-0 |url-access=subscription }}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=kan ho yun |date=August 2014 |title=The Study on Shinyeon-Whaljabon(New-Lead Printed) Old Novel's Catalogue Pictures and Cultural Assimilation |journal=The Classical Literature and Education |volume=null |issue=28 |pages=221–253 |doi=10.17319/cle.2014..28.221 |issn=1598-7108|doi-access=free }}</ref>


==Further reading==
==Further reading==
*{{cite book|last=Bhattacharya|first=Nandini |title=Rabindranath Tagore Gora: A Critical Companion|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=O7MbswEACAAJ|year=2015|publisher=Primus Books|isbn=978-93-84082-42-0}}
*{{cite book |last=Bhattacharya |first=Nandini |title=Rabindranath Tagore Gora: A Critical Companion |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=O7MbswEACAAJ |year=2015 |publisher=Primus Books |isbn=978-93-84082-42-0}}
*{{cite book|last1=Hogan|first1=Patrick Colm |last2=Pandit|first2=Lalita|title=Rabindranath Tagore: Universality and Tradition|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lyr2gZZnWl8C&pg=PA143|year=2003|publisher=Fairleigh Dickinson University Press|isbn=978-0-8386-3980-1|pages=141–212}}
*{{cite book|last1=Hogan|first1=Patrick Colm |last2=Pandit|first2=Lalita|title=Rabindranath Tagore: Universality and Tradition|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lyr2gZZnWl8C&pg=PA143|year=2003|publisher=Fairleigh Dickinson University Press|isbn=978-0-8386-3980-1|pages=141–212}}
*{{cite book|last=Singh|first=Kh. Kunjo |title=Humanism and Nationalism in Tagore's Novels|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=09pXEoGHGdcC|year=2002|publisher=Atlantic Publishers & Dist|isbn=978-81-269-0184-5|pages=99–112}}
*{{cite book|last=Singh|first=Kh. Kunjo |title=Humanism and Nationalism in Tagore's Novels|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=09pXEoGHGdcC|year=2002|publisher=Atlantic Publishers & Dist|isbn=978-81-269-0184-5|pages=99–112}}


==See also==
==See also==
* [[Works of Rabindranath Tagore]]
* [[List of works by Rabindranath Tagore]]
* [[Adaptations of works of Rabindranath Tagore in film and television]]
* [[Adaptations of works of Rabindranath Tagore in film and television]]


==References==
==Summary==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}


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* {{Google books|id=zap1xqzPU24C}} (English translation)
* {{Google books|id=zap1xqzPU24C}} (English translation)
* {{Google books|id=9jifdxSPGx8C}} (English translation with notes)
* {{Google books|id=9jifdxSPGx8C}} (English translation with notes)
*[https://amargitanjali.com/tag/গোরা/ গোরা সমগ্ৰহ]
*[https://amargitanjali.com/tag/গোরা/ গোরা সমগ্ৰহ] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220331003317/https://amargitanjali.com/tag/%E0%A6%97%E0%A7%8B%E0%A6%B0%E0%A6%BE/ |date=31 March 2022 }}
{{Rabindranath Tagore}}
{{Rabindranath Tagore}}
{{Authority control}}


[[Category:Novels by Rabindranath Tagore]]
[[Category:Novels by Rabindranath Tagore]]
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[[Category:Indian novels adapted into films]]
[[Category:Indian novels adapted into films]]
[[Category:Indian novels adapted into television shows]]
[[Category:Indian novels adapted into television shows]]
[[Category:Bengali-language novels]]

Latest revision as of 14:27, 26 March 2026


Template:AI-generated

Gora
Cover page of Gora (Bengali)
AuthorRabindranath Tagore
Original titleগোরা (White or Fair)
CountryBritish India
LanguageBengali
Set inBengal
Pages624
ISBN978-8-171-67755-9
Preceded byNoukadubi 
Followed byChaturanga 

Gora (Bengali: গোরা) is a novel by Rabindranath Tagore, set in Calcutta (now Kolkata), in the 1880s during the British Raj. It is the fifth in order of writing and the longest of Tagore's twelve novels. It is rich in philosophical debate on politics and religion.[1] Other themes include liberation, universalism, brotherhood, gender, feminism, caste, class, tradition versus modernity, urban elite versus rural peasants, colonial rule, nationalism and the Brahmo Samaj.[2][3]

The novel is the longest novel written by Tagore. It deeply influences the Indian society and emerged as a debate between Brahmo Samaj and Hinduism.

Contents[edit | edit source]

Gora consists of two parallel love stories of two pairs of lovers: Gora and Sucharita, Binoy and Lolita. Their emotional development is shown in the background of the social and political problems prevalent in India towards the end of the 19th-century.[4]

Plot[edit | edit source]

The story mainly revolves around its protagonist, Gormohan alias 'Gora', a ‌staunch Hindu Brahmin.[5] Gora is a young man with a well-built body, good stature, white complexion, and a heavy voice. Because of his physique, he is the head of his circle of friends. Despite not being handsome, Gora is considered attractive because of his heavy speech and high stature. Gora's best friend is Binoybhushan aka Binoy. Binoy is a friendly and handsome young man. He has a special affection for Gora's mother Anandamayi, and regards Anandamayi as his mother as he was orphaned as a child. One day Binoy meets a Brahmo Samaji Paresh Babu and his daughter Sucharita when their wagon crashes outside Binoy's house. Binoy helps them, and starts visiting their house. And then Binoy is introduced to Paresh Babu, his wife Varadasundari, his eldest daughter Lavanya, middle daughter Lalita, and younger daughter Leela. Along with them, he is introduced to Sucharita, the adopted daughter of Paresh Babu, and Satish, Sucharita's real brother. At the time of the story there is an ongoing conflict between the Brahmo Samaj and Hinduism; as Gora is a staunch Hindu who believes in untouchability, he forbids Binoy to meet Paresh Babu and his family. This leads to an argument between the two. Gora accuses Binoy of being attracted to Paresh Babu's daughter, but Binoy denies this. Gora's father Krishnadayal, a good friend of Paresh Babu, one day urges Gora to visit Paresh Babu's house to inquire about his well-being. When Gora goes there, Binoy is already present, disappointing and angering Gora. There, Gora is introduced to Haran alias Panu Babu, who is Bengali but has special affection for the British. Haran Babu is a special head of the Brahmo Samaj, and is going to marry Sucharita. Due to Gora's being Hindu, he does not get the same respect at Paresh Babu's house as Binoy did. He gets into an argument with Haran Babu. Sucharita, who earlier saw Gora as inferior because of his fanaticism, supports Gora by not supporting Haran Babu in the debate. Gora is then very angry with Binoy, but due to his special affection for him cannot leave him.

Later, Gora has to go to Paresh Babu's house once again, where Gora's love for Sucharita awakens; Sucharita reciprocates those feelings. Gora, who has sworn that he will never marry, feels deeply guilty about this and immediately sets off on an unknown journey. Varadasundari gets along well with Magistrate Brownlow, and she chooses Binoy and Lalita to star in a show at his house. Gora travels to a village which is haunted by the atrocities of the magistrate and the superintendent. He vows to bring justice to the village and rebels against the magistrate. Enraged by this, the magistrates send Gora to jail for a month without trial for any crime. Hearing this, Lalita, who cannot tolerate injustice, is enraged. Due to this she comes home overnight on a steamer with Binoy. The steamer incident — that a Brahmo girl has come alone with a Hindu boy at night — stirs up the Brahmo Samaj. Lalita becomes notorious, so Varadasundari blames Binoy. Binoy agrees to join the Brahmo Samaj under societal pressure, but Gora objects to it, with Lalita also forbidding Binoy from doing so. Meanwhile, Sucharita's widowed maternal aunt, Harimohini, visits Poresh's house and her being a Hindu arises conflict between her and Poresh's wife, Varadasundari. Seeing this conflict, Poresh reveals to Sucharita that she had her own house in the neighbourhood which he bought from Sucharita's father's savings. Sucharita and Harimohini move into the house.

After being released from prison, Gora starts visiting Sucharita's house. Harimohini, who is suspicious of Gora's intention, wants Sucharita to marry her relative, Kailash. Sucharita doesn't accept it and accepts Gora as her guru. Meanwhile, Binoy and Lalita get married with resistance from Varadasundari, Gora, and Binoy's relatives.

When one day, when Krishnadayal falls ill, he informs Gora of the truth about his origins. He explains that Gora is not actually his son, but the son of a Christian Irishman. They had met when he lived in Etawah; when war broke out there, Gora's military father was killed. Gora's mother was dependent on Krishnadayal's goodwill and gave birth to Gora in his house, dying in the process. Krishnadayal has raised him since. In that one moment, Gora's whole life is destroyed, the religion for which he sacrificed his whole life having rejected him. Eventually, Gora accepts Paresh Babu as his guru, after drinking water from Lachmiya's hand.

Characters[edit | edit source]

  • Gormohan aka Gora/Gaur is the son of Anandmoyi and Krishnadayal, younger half- brother of Mahim, best friend of Binoy and Sucharita's love interest. He is the protagonist and titular character of the novel.
  • Binoybhushan aka Binoy (Vinay) is Lolita's husband and Gora's best friend.
  • Sucharita (birth name: Radharani) is the adopted daughter of Paresh Babu and Vardasundari and sister of Satish, and her half- sisters, Lolita, Lavanya and Leela.
  • Lolita (Lalita) is Paresh Babu and Vardasundari's second daughter and Binoy's wife.
  • Pareshchandra Bhattacharya aka Paresh Babu is the husband of Varadasundari, father of Lavanya, Lolita and Leela.
  • Anandmoyi (Anandmayi) is the mother of Gora, step mother of Mahim and Krishnadayal's wife. She is an enigmatic spiritual leader, Anandamoyi plays a significant role in shaping Gora's spiritual and philosophical journey. Her teachings challenge Gora's narrow-mindedness and foster a more inclusive understanding of spirituality and human existence.
  • Haran Babu aka Panu Babu A Brahmo Samaji who hates Bengali and Indian culture and impressed with Britishers and jealous of Binoy and Gora as he wants to marry Sucharita.
  • Mahim step brother of Gora, son of Krishnadayal from his late wife. He is a witty and cunning middle- aged man, who is jealous of Gora and hates her step mother. He is a government employee. He has a daughter, Shashimukhi, and wants to marry her off with Binoy. However, when Binoy marries Lolita, he started hating him.
  • Krishnadayal a staunch Hindu like Gora, father of Mahim, foster father of Gora and husband of Anandmayi.
  • Harimohini maternal aunt of Sucharita and Satish.
  • Shri Satishchandra Mukhopadhyaya aka Satish adopted son of Paresh Babu and Vardasundari and real brother of Sucharita best friend of Binoybhushan. He is a talkative and naught young boy.
  • Kailash brother - in - law of Harimohini
  • Avinash student of Gora
  • Lavanya eldest daughter of Paresh Babu and Vardasundari
  • Leela youngest daughter of Paresh Babu and Vardasundari
  • Shashimukhi daughter of Mahim
  • Mahim's wife
  • Lachmiya Christian servant of Anandmoyi[6]

Themes[edit | edit source]

The theme of Gora, revolves around nationalism, identity, and social reform. It explores the clash between traditional Hindu customs and modern ideas, reflecting the complexities of India during the colonial era. The protagonist, Gora, grapples with questions of identity and cultural belonging, making the novel a profound exploration of self-discovery and societal transformation. In Gora, Rabindranath Tagore also delves into the theme of religious tolerance and the power of love in bridging cultural divides. The novel portrays the characters' struggles with the changing social dynamics and how they navigate their personal beliefs while engaging with broader societal issues. It emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and open-mindedness in addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Throughout the story, Tagore weaves a tapestry of diverse perspectives and ideologies, showcasing the richness of India's cultural heritage. He presents a vivid picture of the social, political, and religious landscape of the time, raising essential questions about unity, diversity, and the role of individuals in shaping their communities. As Gora grapples with his own identity and tries to reconcile his traditional upbringing with modern ideas, the novel serves as a reflection on the complex interplay between tradition and progress. The exploration of gender roles and the empowerment of women is another prominent aspect of the novel, shedding light on the importance of gender equality and women's agency. Ultimately, Gora is a thought-provoking and deeply philosophical work that transcends time and continues to resonate with readers as they contemplate the intricate relationships between tradition, nationalism, and the human quest for understanding and growth.

Critical reception[edit | edit source]

Gora is considered one of his most significant works in Bengali literature.[7] It received widespread critical acclaim for its insightful exploration of social and political issues during the colonial era in India. The novel was first published in 1910 and quickly gained recognition for its thought-provoking narrative and powerful storytelling. Tagore's portrayal of the protagonist Gora, a committed and proud nationalist with fervent belief in Indian traditions, and his interactions with various characters from different backgrounds, reflect the complexities of society and the struggle for cultural identity during the British colonial rule.

Critics also appreciated Tagore's lyrical prose and the way he intertwined philosophical musings with social commentary. The novel's exploration of caste, class, and gender issues further highlighted Tagore's progressive ideas and his concern for social reforms. Over the years, "Gora" has been subject to numerous academic studies and literary analyses, and it continues to be a compelling piece of literature that resonates with readers worldwide. Its themes of self-discovery, religious tolerance, and the quest for truth remain relevant even in contemporary times.[8]

Translations[edit | edit source]

The translation of Gora into English by W. W. Pearson was published in 1924. Half of this version had been revised by Tagore's own nephew, Surendranath Tagore. On the basis of this translation, a French translation was made by Marguerite Glotz in 1927, revised on the Bengali original by Pierre Fallon s.j. and published in 1961; another French translation based on a typescript of the first English translation had been prepared by Madeleine Rolland already in 1923 but was never completed. A new English translation by Sujit Mukherjee, based on the better text of the Bengali Collected Works of Rabindranath (1941), was issued at the Sahitya Akademy, New Delhi, in 1997. On the same better basis, an English translation by Radha Chakravarty was published by Random House in 2009 (Penguin Modern Classics). A German translation by Helene Meyer-Franck appeared in 1924, and by Gisela Leiste in 1980. A Hindi translation was made by the famous Hindi poet and author Agyeya. For his Malayalam translation, Dr. K. C. Ajayakumar has won in 2015 the Sahitya Akademi Award.[9]

Adaptations[edit | edit source]

Film adaptations exist from 1938, when director Naresh Mitra made a Bengali film in the same name based on the novel.[10] and from 2015, directed by Shukla Mitra. In 2012 Hindi channel Doordarshan broadcast a 26-episode television series by producer Gargi Sen and director Somnath Sen.[2][3]

Legacy and cultural influence[edit | edit source]

Gora holds immense cultural and literary significance in Bengal and beyond. First published in 1910, it remains a timeless classic that has left a profound impact on Bengali literature and society. The novel delves into themes of identity, nationalism, and social reform, presenting a critique of religious orthodoxy and advocating for universal humanism. Gora challenged prevailing notions of caste and religious divisions, promoting a more inclusive and tolerant society. Through its portrayal of the titular character, Gora, an ardent nationalist with a fervent desire to uplift his people, Tagore depicted the struggle for self-discovery and self-realization. The book questioned traditional norms and called for a reevaluation of societal structures, contributing to the intellectual awakening and cultural renaissance in Bengal during the early 20th century. Tagore's lyrical prose and deep philosophical insights in Gora continue to inspire generations of readers, influencing subsequent literature and shaping the Bengal's literary landscape. The novel's emphasis on individuality, empathy, and unity transcends time and remains relevant to this day. Overall, Gora not only transformed Bengal's literary scene but also played a pivotal role in catalyzing the region's cultural and social transformation, leaving an indelible legacy that continues to resonate with readers and scholars worldwide.[11][12]

Further reading[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

Summary[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Indian Ruminations (5 January 2012). Tagore’s Idea of Nation and Nationalism in Gora – Nakul Kundra, Amritsar
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 Times of India (Tagore’s Gora to come alive on television
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Magic Lantern Movie (5 November 2012). Tagore's 'Gora' set for telecast on Doordarshan's national channel.
  4. ↑ George, K. M., ed. (1993). Modern Indian Literature: an Anthology: Fiction. Vol. 2. New Delhi: Sahitya Akademi. pp. 89–90. ISBN 81-7201-506-2.
  5. ↑ Tagore, Rabindranath (28 March 2016). Gora. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform. ISBN 978-1-5307-8000-6. OCLC 1013463053.
  6. ↑ "Introduction: Novel Characters", Novel Characters, Oxford, UK: Wiley-Blackwell, pp. 1–21, 26 August 2010, doi:10.1002/9781444327984.ch1, ISBN 978-1-4443-2798-4, retrieved 4 August 2023{{citation}}: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN (link)
  7. ↑ d'Hubert, Thibaut (30 July 2020), "Bengali Literature of Arakan", Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Asian History, Oxford University Press, doi:10.1093/acrefore/9780190277727.013.430, ISBN 978-0-19-027772-7, retrieved 4 August 2023
  8. ↑ "Criticism of the Novel Contemporary Reception", Middlemarch : Critical Approaches to the Novel, Bloomsbury Academic, 2013, doi:10.5040/9781472554147.ch-006, ISBN 978-1-4725-1440-0, retrieved 4 August 2023{{citation}}: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN (link)
  9. ↑ "..:: SAHITYA : Akademi Awards ::." sahitya-akademi.gov.in.
  10. ↑ Rajadhyaksha, Ashish; Willemen, Paul (2014). Encyclopedia of Indian Cinema. Routledge. p. 149. ISBN 978-1-135-94318-9.
  11. ↑ "The novel's narrative technique", Conrad: Nostromo, Cambridge University Press, pp. 21–47, 28 April 1988, doi:10.1017/9781139166089.005, ISBN 978-0-521-32821-0, retrieved 4 August 2023{{citation}}: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN (link)
  12. ↑ kan ho yun (August 2014). "The Study on Shinyeon-Whaljabon(New-Lead Printed) Old Novel's Catalogue Pictures and Cultural Assimilation". The Classical Literature and Education. null (28): 221–253. doi:10.17319/cle.2014..28.221. ISSN 1598-7108.

External links[edit | edit source]

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