Letter to Lord Chelmsford Rejecting Knighthood

Letter | Rabindranath Tagore

Letter to Lord Chelmsford Rejecting Knighthood Quotations

“Without parallel in the history of civilised governments.”

Explanation: Tagore means that the cruelty shown by the British Government in Punjab has no equal in the history of any civilized nation.

“No political expediency, far less moral justification.”

Explanation: Tagore says that there can be no political or moral reason to justify such brutal violence against innocent people.

“Insults and sufferings by our brothers in Punjab have trickled through the gagged silence.”

Explanation: Tagore shows that even though the British tried to hide the truth, the pain and humiliation of the people of Punjab slowly spread across India.

“Gone to the brutal length of making fun of our sufferings.”

Explanation: Tagore criticizes the Anglo-Indian newspapers for mocking the pain of Indians instead of showing sympathy.

“The very least that I can do for my country is to take all consequences upon myself in giving voice to the protest.”

Explanation: Tagore feels it is his duty to speak for his country, even if it brings him personal trouble.

“The enormity of the measures taken by the Government in the Punjab……. revealed to our minds the helplessness of our position as British subjects in India.”

Explanation: Tagore says the cruel actions of the British in Punjab showed how helpless Indians were under their rule.

“The universal agony of indignation roused in the hearts of our people has been ignored by our rulers.”

Explanation: Tagore says the British rulers did not care about the deep pain and anger of the Indian people.

“The time has come when badges of honour make our shame glaring in the incongruous context of humiliation.”

Explanation: Tagore says that after the massacre, honours from the British no longer bring pride, but shame.


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Rabindranath Tagore
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