About Swami Vivekanand
Swami Vivekananda, a revered Hindu monk, was not just a spiritual leader but also a profound thinker, eloquent speaker, and devoted patriot in India. Continuing the open-minded philosophy of his guru, Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Vivekananda tirelessly worked to uplift society, especially serving the poor.
He played a crucial role in reviving Hindu spiritualism and showcasing Hinduism globally. His message of unity and self-awakening is still significant, particularly amid today’s global political challenges. Vivekananda’s teachings have inspired many, especially the youth, making his birthday, January 12, celebrated as National Youth Day in India.
Born as Narendra Nath Datta in an affluent Kolkata family in 1863, Vivekananda was influenced by both Indian and Western cultures. His journey from conflicting beliefs to becoming a monk began when he accepted Ramakrishna as his guru. Vivekananda’s vast cultural knowledge also promoted interfaith understanding.
He believed that serving humanity was a way of serving God, a lesson learned from his guru. With a yogic temperament, he practised meditation from a young age and engaged with the Brahmo Movement. His parents, Vishwanath Datta and Bhuvaneshwari Devi, contributed to his upbringing, instilling deep devotion and a broad understanding of various subjects. Vivekananda’s life and teachings continue to inspire, providing a guiding light for those seeking self-improvement and a better world.
After his guru passed away, funding stopped, and many disciples quit. Swami Vivekananda, however, was determined to turn the place into a monastery. From 1888-1893, he travelled around India with just a pot and two books, Bhagavad Gita and The Imitation of Christ. Living off alms, he connected with scholars and kings of all religions, witnessing poverty. In 1893, he travelled to the West, speaking about Hinduism at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago. Vivekananda, meaning “imparting wisdom and bliss,” focused on nationalism, spreading Yoga knowledge, and inspiring educational institutes. His legacy endures as a beacon of enlightenment and kindness.
Swami Vivekananda’s Yoga philosophy is a practical guide, blending physical and spiritual aspects of life. He highlights the deep link between the body and spirit, offering timeless advice for overall well-being. Vivekananda focuses on self-awareness and applying Yoga principles in our daily lives.
It goes beyond just physical exercises, encouraging mental and spiritual balance. In his philosophy, Yoga transforms into a tool not only for fitness but also for lasting joy and contentment. Vivekananda’s teachings are approachable, making Yoga a living philosophy applicable to various aspects of our lives. By connecting the mind, body, and soul, his philosophy serves as a roadmap to a harmonious and meaningful life, influencing every part of our journey towards self-discovery and inner peace.
Book by Swami Vivekanand:
Swami Vivekananda, a prolific author, penned numerous books, with a key focus on Yoga. One notable work is “Raja Yoga,” offering practical wisdom on meditation and self-discipline. In simple language, he guides readers on the path to harnessing the mind’s power for inner growth. Vivekananda’s writings, including this book, reflect his deep insights into philosophy and spirituality, inspiring readers to embrace Yoga as a transformative tool for a balanced and fulfilling life.
Conclusion:
Swami Vivekananda showed how India’s diverse people could come together through a shared sense of humanity. He pointed out the flaws in Western culture and highlighted India’s valuable contributions. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose praised Vivekananda for bringing East and West together, fostering self-respect and self-reliance. Vivekananda built a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures, sharing India’s rich heritage. His crucial role in ending India’s cultural isolation shows his lasting impact and greatness.