ABSTRACT
Tagore had been a passionate supporter of nationalism during the first decade of the twentieth century, when he had confidence in nationalist ideology as the means of cultural survival. Nationalism is a political demon, while patriotism means a love of one's country and commitment to its traditions which aims at social cohesion and encourages communication, consensus and fruitful interchange. Tagore is equally sceptical of the non-violent nationalism represented by Gandhi's non-cooperation movement, which he describes as a parochial nationalism threatening an isolated view of the country. Tagore retains a faith in the freedom and creative ability of individuals to build a beautiful society that he never had in political power which seeks order and conformity and thwarts the best in individuals in the interests of dull, standardized uniformity. Char Adhyaya forcefully expresses Tagore's view that political violence or violence in the name of nationalism is blind, impersonal and dehumanizing, with no concern for the autonomy and dignity of the individuals.
