Swami Vivekananda, a spiritual leader and philosopher from India, was born on January 12th, 1863. He is widely considered to be one of the most influential figures in the introduction of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world.
Swami Vivekananda was born as Narendranath Datta in Calcutta, India. From a young age, he was interested in spirituality and religion, and was especially drawn to the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, a mystic and religious teacher. Under Sri Ramakrishna’s guidance, Narendranath became a monk and took the name Swami Vivekananda.
In 1893, Swami Vivekananda represented India and Hinduism at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago. His speeches and teachings there were highly influential and helped to introduce the concepts of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. He also established the Ramakrishna Mission, which continues to spread the teachings of Vedanta and provide services to people in need.
Swami Vivekananda’s birthday is celebrated as National Youth Day in India, in recognition of his influence on the country’s youth and his efforts to uplift the poor and underprivileged. Many schools and colleges hold special events to celebrate the day, including speeches and discussions on his teachings, and cultural programs.
In addition, Ramakrishna Mission and other spiritual organizations across the India and abroad celebrating his birthday by arranging religious discourses, meditation classes, special pujas and havans, distribution of prasad, cultural programs, and other activities.
Swami Vivekananda’s message of universal brotherhood and service to humanity continues to inspire people of all backgrounds and ages, and his birthday is an opportunity to reflect on his teachings and the impact he has had on the world.
