Swami Vivekananda, originally called Narendranath Dutta, was born on 12th January 1863.His mother was a pious lady who influenced him from his very childhood and played a major role in shaping his character. Later, he became a devout disciple of Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa who encouraged him towards spirituality. Eventually, he became the most dedicated disciple of his Guru.
In 1885, before leaving for heavenly abode, Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa asked his disciples to consider Vivekananda as their leader and asked Vivekananda to care for his disciples. Swami Vivekananda established the Ramakrishna Mission, named after his Guru, on 1st. May1887. Among other principles that he preached, he focused on harmony among religions.
With funds collected from his disciples and followers, the spiritual ambassador left for Chicago to attend the World Parliament of Religions. It was at a time when Indian culture and religion were not well understood by the Western world. On reaching Chicago, Swami Vivekananda learned that no one could attend the Parliament as a delegate, without credential. He had none and he felt disappointed. Fortunately, he met Prof. John Wright of the Harvard University who could see in him a scholar of high caliber with a sharp mind and exceptional intellect. He invited the Swami to give a lecture at the University. Thereafter, he persuaded the Swami to represent the Hindu Religion at the Parliament of Religions.
His powerful speech starting with “Sisters and brothers of America I thank you in the name of the mother of religions and in the name of millions and millions of Hindu people of all classes and sects” captivated the audience and introduced the world to the spiritual traditions of India. His ability to communicate his ideas in a clear, simple and powerful way was applauded by the audience. He believed that all religions were paths to reach the same ultimate goal and that a person’s individual religion was a matter of personal choice. He ended his speech with an appeal: help and not fight, Assimilation and not destruction and Harmony and peace and not dissension. The oration earned him a two- minute standing ovation.
It is good to note that Vivekananda was always very simply dressed. When a British asked him why can’t you dress up in a pair of trousers, shirt and tie and look like a gentleman? He replied with a smile: “In your country a tailor makes a gentleman but in ours, character makes gentleman.” His motto Arise, Awake and stop not until the goal is reached is an inspiration to youngsters.
V.K.Beeharry , Member, Arya Veer