Echoes of Empathy: Analyzing the Ethical Dimensions of Animal Sacrifice in Tagore's 'Sacrifice'

Rabindranath Tagore, a distinguished Bengali poet and social reformer, is celebrated for his significant contributions to Indian literature and his incisive critiques of societal norms. One of his notable concerns was the practice of animal sacrifice, particularly in the context of worshiping the goddess Kali. This essay delves into how Tagore's literary creations and philosophical perspectives challenged this ritualistic tradition. By closely analyzing his play "Sacrifice" along with other narratives, novels, and dramas, we can uncover his opposition to animal sacrifice and his broader vision for a more ethical and compassionate spirituality.