“Raktakarabi: A Symbolic Rebellion Against Tyranny“
Rabindranath Tagore’s Raktakarabi (Red Oleanders) is a profound allegorical play that critiques the dehumanizing effects of industrial greed and authoritarian control. Set in the fictional kingdom of Yakshapuri, the story follows Nandini, a symbol of life, beauty, and resistance, as she challenges a mechanized society obsessed with wealth and power. Through poetic dialogue and symbolic characters, Tagore explores themes of freedom, individuality, and the spiritual cost of materialism. First published in 1924, Raktakarabi remains a timeless reflection on the struggle between human values and oppressive systems—making it a cornerstone of Bengali literary theatre and a compelling subject for modern readers and theatre enthusiasts alike.
