Introduction
“Rebel” by Kazi Nazrul Islam (1899-1976) is a powerful poem. The poem contains several mythological elements that point to a rebellion against tyranny and oppression. He uses mythology to a great extent throughout the poetic lines of Rebel. These mythological elements enrich and uplift the poem in a superior level.
Here is a point-to-point discussion of some of the key mythological elements in the poem Rebel used by Kazi Nazrul Islam.
1. The reference to Lord Krishna:
In the poem, Nazrul invokes the image of Lord Krishna as a symbol of rebellion and resistance. He describes the “rebel” as having “the same laughter as Lord Krishna, the same smile as Lord Krishna, the same dance as Lord Krishna.” This reference to Lord Krishna, who is known in Hindu mythology for his role as a warrior and defender of justice, reinforces the idea of the rebel as a heroic figure fighting for what is right.
More Notes: Kazi Nazrul Islam
2. Reference to Gabriel:
Nazrul also draws on Christian mythology in the poem, referencing the archangel Gabriel. He describes the rebel as having
“the same voice as Gabriel, the same power as Gabriel.” This reference reinforces the idea of the rebel as a divine messenger, sent to deliver a message of liberation and justice to the oppressed. He refers the fiery wing for freedom. He says,
and the fiery wing of the angel Gabriel.
3. The reference to Lord Rama:
The poet also refers to Lord Rama, another famous god in Hindu mythology. Lord Rama is known for his righteousness, and the poet uses his reference to highlight the importance of fighting against injustice and standing up for what is right.
4. The reference to Lord Shiva:
The poet refers to Lord Shiva, one of the most powerful gods in Hindu mythology. Lord Shiva is known for his destructive power, and the poet uses his reference to highlight the need for the destruction of the evil forces that oppress people.
5. The reference to Goddess Kali:
In another reference to Hindu mythology, Nazrul invokes the image of Kali, the goddess of destruction. He describes the rebel as having “the same ferocity as Kali, the same destruction as Kali.” This comparison suggests that the rebel is willing to use whatever means necessary to achieve their goal, even if it means destroying the existing order.
6. The reference to the Mahabharata:
The poet refers to the Mahabharata, one of the most famous epics in Hindu mythology. The Mahabharata tells the story of a great war between two families, and the poet uses its reference to highlight the importance of fighting against oppression and tyranny.
7. The reference to the Quran:
The poet also refers to the Quran, the holy book of Muslims. The Quran emphasizes justice and equality, and the poet uses its reference to highlight the need for fighting against oppression and standing up for what is right.
8. The use of the mythological figure of Ravana:
Reference to Sita and Ravana: Nazrul also alludes to the story of Sita and Ravana from the Ramayana, a Hindu epic. He compares the rebel’s struggle to that of Sita, who was kidnapped by the demon king Ravana and had to be rescued by Lord Rama. The rebel, like Sita, is seen as a victim of oppression who must be liberated by a powerful force.
9. Reference of Parashuram
In “Rebel,” Kazi Nazrul Islam portrays Parashuram as a symbol of rebellion and resistance against tyranny. The poem describes how Parashuram fought against powerful kings and armies to protect the weak and oppressed. He is shown as a hero who is willing to sacrifice his own life for the greater good and who stands up against injustice regardless of the consequences. Nazrul says,
I’m Parashuram’s merciless axe.
I’ll rid the world of all the war mongers*
and bring peace.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Rebel” is a poem that contains several mythological elements that highlight the importance of rebellion against oppression and tyranny. The poet uses these mythological elements to emphasize the importance of fighting against injustice and standing up for what is right.
