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ur. E. Tomlin Batley NOTE ON YELLOW: Robeson is key figure of New York Office. He fe noted Negro concert singer who has long supported the Communist Farty and related front groups and has likewise been outspoken in praise of the Soviet Unton. In the recent past, Robeson has become quite active In concert .. and lecture appearances in the United States for which he has been given considerable publicity. In view of Rebeson's 60th birthday in 4/58, the Soviet Embassy, various United States front organizations and several foretgn countries, tncluding Russia, FEngand and India, are planning a birthday celebration fdr Fobesan. Nehru and Indian government support of Robeson, «@s indicated -... in above article, is the subject of much concern by the State Department. According to State Department cables, All India Faul Robeson Birthday Committee has been formed, This Committee is publicizing Robeson as a great singer; actor and humanist, who has identified himself completely with the poor, the humble and the downtrodden to the point where he is looked upon as the symbol of human aspiration _and of the dignity of man, Apparently Prime Minister Nehru ‘ Ras eteted that Robeson was a great friend of India during infefirdence, Although Nehru is reportedly pushing the Fete it was indicated that the original inspiration came~Yrom England where it may be noted that numerous Faul Robeson Committees have been established for some time. State Department is currently attempting to impress india officials with the factual background of Robeson and his antieAmerican and pro-Soviet aympathies, State ts attempting to impress upon Indian officials that the celebration tn question would undoubtedly be interpreted as communist insplred, antt-American and as evidence that India was going communist, This letter classified "Con= Sidenttal" inasmuch as the information contained herein concerning the comments of Benjamin Davis was obtained through @ confidential source close to Davis. The dis= elosure of the source could seriousiy hamper Bureau coverage of Communist Farty activities at thé national | devel which would in turn be prejudicial to the national defense. ,