Dehali – A Historic Heritage House in Santiniketan

Dehali is a significant heritage house located in the heart of Santiniketan, Bolpur, West Bengal, within the serene premises of the Visva-Bharati University campus. This house holds a special place in the cultural and historical landscape of Santiniketan, closely tied to the legacy of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Visiting Dehali offers a peek into the simple yet profound lifestyle of the Tagore family and the early days of the Santiniketan Ashram.

About Dehali

Dehali is a two-storied building that was part of the original Santiniketan Ashram, established by Maharshi Debendranath Tagore in 1863 and later expanded by his son, Rabindranath Tagore. The name “Dehali” is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “threshold” or “frame of a door,” symbolizing its role as the entrance to the Ashram house. It was here that Rabindranath Tagore lived with his wife, Mrinalini Devi, during the early years of the Ashram.

Built around the late 19th century, Dehali served as a residence for the Tagore family and later as an office for Siksha Bhavan, the educational wing of Visva-Bharati. The house witnessed significant historical moments, including the stay of notable figures like Sir Andrews Pearson, a friend of Tagore. Unfortunately, the structure was damaged due to heavy rainfall in 1956 and is no longer fully intact, but its historical importance remains undiminished.

Dehali’s architecture reflects the simplicity and functionality of the Ashram’s ethos, with mud walls and a modest design that blends with the natural surroundings. It stands as a testament to Tagore’s vision of a harmonious community rooted in education, equality, and creativity.