Swami Vivekananda Birth Anniversary: Calcutta-born monk and Ramakrishna disciple remembered

Swami Vivekananda is remembered on his birth anniversary. The article recalls key biographical milestones and his philosophical ideas, including Neo-Vedanta and universalism, along with their stated relevance in present times.

Swami Vivekananda: Biographical Milestones & Key Ideas

Dimension	Key Details
Birthplace	Born in Calcutta on 12 January, 1863.
Association	Being a disciple of Ramakrishna Paramhans.
1893 event	Addressed the Parliament of World's Religions in Chicago in 1893, introducing Hinduism to the western world.
Organisation founded	Founded the Ramkrishna Mission in 1897.
Neo-Vedanta Philosophy	Provides for emphasis on the oneness of all; each person is interconnected and equal; mandates no inherent superiority of one over another.
Universalism	Provides for transcending sectarian divides and fostering a sense of unity.
Knowledge	The primary goal of humanity; pleasure is impermanent while knowledge is enduring.
Religion	Provides for a religion’s true worth lying in its ability to uplift humanity in all circumstances.
Education	Authorises a holistic approach to education addressing physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions of an individual.
Present relevance	Inclusivity and universal brotherhood; societal transformation by breaking shackles of caste and creed; emotional intelligence via integrating mindfulness practices; peaceful coexistence including calling the Western world to blend India’s spiritual advances into ideas of modernity and advising Indians to pursue modernisation while cutting through social hierarchies and meaningless rituals.