Kadambari Devi, Rabindranath’s sister-in-law, who he was very close to and who inspired him in his literary work, commits suicide. He will dedicate three of his books to her, including an anthology called Saisab Sangit (Songs of Childhood).

Kadambari Devi lived from 5 July 1859 until 21 April 188. She was the wife of Jyotirindranath Tagore and daughter-in-law of Debendranath Tagore. She was ten years younger than her husband, whom she married on 5 July 1868, at the age of 9. Jyotirindranath Tagore had arranged for her to be educated. She was nearly the same age as Rabindranath Tagore who was 2 years older.

She was a source of inspiration for the young Rabindranath in composing many of his poems to which she offered her creative feedback and comments. She was also a good friend and playmate to him. She played an important part in his life though her relationship with Tagore was controversial and had elements of tragedy.

For reasons that are unknown, she committed suicide four months after Rabindranath Tagore married. The Tagore family always remained silent about her suicide although rumours of family problems have circulated. After Kadambari Devi’s death, Rabindranath was heart broken. For a long time after her death he wrote songs and poems in her memory.

Information drawn from Wikipedia