Swami Vivekananda re-instilled self-pride in Indians: Bihar governor

Patna: As part of its centenary celebrations, the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram, Patna, organised a youth convention on Saturday at the Chandragupt Institute of Management.Chief guest on the occasion, governor Arif Mohammed Khan, recalled his association with the works of spiritual leader Swami Vivekananda, particularly through the writings of Swami Ranganathananda Ji Maharaj.Swami Suvirananda Ji Maharaj, general secretary of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Belur Math, and Justice Sandeep Kumar of the Patna high court were also present on the occasion.The governor said, “Vivekananda played a crucial role in re-instilling a sense of self-pride among the citizens of the country.” He disclosed that his favourite book authored by Vivekananda was “Vedanta—Voice of Freedom”, which he frequently gifts to others.Addressing the gathering, Swami Suvirananda Ji Maharaj emphasised the relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s teachings in a world increasingly divided by caste, creed and religion. He urged the youths to adopt Vivekananda’s ideals, adding that the presence of Ramakrishna Paramhansa and Swami Vivekananda was not just a coincidence but a “historical necessity.”Justice Sandeep Kumar, the guest of honour, underscored the importance of character-building, fearlessness and selfless service.

He said his favourite quote by Vivekananda—“Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached”—is one the youth must remember and carry forward.Swami Shuddhidananda Ji Maharaj, president of the Advaita Ashram, spoke about the ashram’s role in spreading Vivekananda’s message across the globe. He emphasised the institution’s ongoing work to nurture Vivekananda’s vision of an awakened India through its publications and outreach programmes.Eminent educationist Srinandan Mukherjee described Vivekananda not just as a thinker but also as a guiding force whose vision remains relevant for personal growth and national awakening.Bhajans were presented by Swami Kripakarananda of the Ramakrishna Mission, New Delhi, on the occasion.