Nationalism in the Songs of Subramania Bharathi and Assamese Poets: A Cross-Cultural Comparison

சுப்ரமணிய பாரதியார் மற்றும் அசாமி கவிஞர்களின் பாடல்களில் தேசப்பற்று: ஒரு பண்பாட்டு ஒப்பீடு

Abstract

India stands as a confluence of diverse languages, cultures, and traditions. Its literature, from ancient times to the present, reflects this diversity and has evolved in ways that express patriotism. Indian literature is a comprehensive collection of literary works composed in the various languages of India. It includes classical literature, ancient epics, devotional songs from the Bhakti movement, anti-colonial writings, post-independence literature, and modern social critiques. Indian literature, rich in linguistic diversity, serves as a significant medium for expressing social, cultural, political, and nationalistic ideas. Patriotism refers to a deep, selfless love and attachment to one’s motherland. This has emerged as a prominent theme in many Indian literary traditions, particularly before and after the country’s independence. In this context, Tamil and Assamese literatures feature numerous works where writers, drawing from their own socio-cultural backgrounds, have created literature centred on patriotism. This article explores how Tamil and Assamese literatures reflect patriotism in the post-independence and contemporary contexts of the Indian freedom movement, adopting a comparative approach to analyse key poets, poems, and the literary expressions of national consciousness.