Developing India and Swami Vivekananda
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Dr Lakshmi Hijam and Hijam Rajendra Singh
Contd from previous issue
As a disciple of the mystic Sri Ramakrishna, who emphasized that service to humanity is the highest form of service to God, Swami Vivekananda echoed this sentiment by urging the upliftment of the masses without disrupting their religious beliefs. He strongly believed that the future of a Nation is determined by the condition of its people.
Swamiji famously stated, "First make the people of the country stand on their own feet by awakening their inner strength, let them have access to good food, clothing, and comfort, and only then teach them how to rise above the bondage of material enjoyment." He was deeply concerned about the state of agriculture in India and advocated for its modernization through educa- tion and the use of technology. Swamiji supported industrialization, but also emphasized the importance of preserving small-scale and cottage industries, recognizing their potential for empowering local economies. He championed the idea of trade over aid, focusing on self-reliance as the path to prosperity. In addition, Swami Viveka-nanda proposed a compre- hensive plan for poverty eradication rooted in Vedantic philosophy, while promoting the idea of universal oneness through the teachings of Advaita. His vision combined both spiritual and practical elements, providing a holistic approach to India’s progress.
Why is it important for the new generation to know about Swami Vivekananda ?
It is crucial for the younger generation to familiarize themselves with the great personalities of India and their teachings. Swami Vivekananda’s wisdom holds timeless rele- vance and can serve as a guiding light, especially during the formative stages of life. His famous quote, "Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached," offers constant motivation, particularly during moments of fatigue or discouragement. For students facing challenges or setbacks, these words serve as a powerful reminder to persevere and stay focused on their goals. Swamiji’s teachings continue to inspire and uplift every generation, provi- ding strength and resilience no matter the circumstances.
Swami Vivekananda was not just a passionate advocate of Vedanta but also brought its principles into practical application. He recognized the deep-rooted issues in India’s education system during his time—issues that continue to persist today. Modern India has placed significant emphasis on scientific and mechanistic approaches to life, which, according to Swami-ji, reduces human beings to mere machines. This focus has led to a dilution of moral and spiritual values.
According to Viveka-nanda, human beings are a blend of animality, humanity, and divinity. The purpose of education, he believed, should be to elevate individuals from the animalistic to the divine through self-effort, self-realization, and appropriate guidance. If India has faltered in any domain, it is in the failure to produce genuinely developed human beings—a vital element of a thriving society—through a well-rounded education system.
At times, it feels that Swami Vivekananda’s true place in Indian history and his contributions to the making of modern India have not been fully recognized or appreciated. The extent of his influence on national and global events is immeasurable, as the impact of such remarkable figures is both profound and pervasive, though often subtle. This is a modest attempt to highlight the lasting significance of his thoughts and actions in shaping a modern, progressive India.
Swami Vivekananda’s Teachings
Swami Vivekananda's teachings have had a profound impact on India's socio-cultural landscape. A staunch follower of Vedan-ta, he drew deeply from the wisdom of the Vedas and Upanishads, which he regarded as powerful sources of energy, knowledge, and strength. Through his extensive writings, Swamiji effectively communicated the essence of Vedanta, emphasizing its relevance to modern life.
One of the central themes in Swami Vivekananda's teachings was the trans-formative power of education. He believed that man is the architect of his own destiny, and that each individual, through their own capacity and self-effort, can not only shape their own future but also play a crucial role in societal progress. Swamiji argued that genuine social change is the result of spiritual forces working within us, and education is the means through which society can uplift itself and achieve higher standards of living. Swami Vivekananda was also a great catalyst for Nationalism during a time when India needed it most. His teachings emphasized the development of individuals through education and wisdom, making his message particularly relevant for the youth. He was the first to help the people of India realize the depth and richness of their cultural and religious heritage. His landmark speech at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893 introduced the world to India's spiritual legacy, leaving an indelible mark on global culture and religion.
Swami Vivekananda's influence was recognized by some of the greatest thinkers of his time. Harvard philosopher William James referred to him as the "Paragon of Vedantists," while 19th-century Orientalists Max Müller and Paul Deussen held him in the highest regard, acknowledging his profound contri- bution to the understanding of Eastern philosophy.
(To be contd)
Contd from previous issue
As a disciple of the mystic Sri Ramakrishna, who emphasized that service to humanity is the highest form of service to God, Swami Vivekananda echoed this sentiment by urging the upliftment of the masses without disrupting their religious beliefs. He strongly believed that the future of a Nation is determined by the condition of its people.
Swamiji famously stated, "First make the people of the country stand on their own feet by awakening their inner strength, let them have access to good food, clothing, and comfort, and only then teach them how to rise above the bondage of material enjoyment." He was deeply concerned about the state of agriculture in India and advocated for its modernization through educa- tion and the use of technology. Swamiji supported industrialization, but also emphasized the importance of preserving small-scale and cottage industries, recognizing their potential for empowering local economies. He championed the idea of trade over aid, focusing on self-reliance as the path to prosperity. In addition, Swami Viveka-nanda proposed a compre- hensive plan for poverty eradication rooted in Vedantic philosophy, while promoting the idea of universal oneness through the teachings of Advaita. His vision combined both spiritual and practical elements, providing a holistic approach to India’s progress.
Why is it important for the new generation to know about Swami Vivekananda ?
It is crucial for the younger generation to familiarize themselves with the great personalities of India and their teachings. Swami Vivekananda’s wisdom holds timeless rele- vance and can serve as a guiding light, especially during the formative stages of life. His famous quote, "Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached," offers constant motivation, particularly during moments of fatigue or discouragement. For students facing challenges or setbacks, these words serve as a powerful reminder to persevere and stay focused on their goals. Swamiji’s teachings continue to inspire and uplift every generation, provi- ding strength and resilience no matter the circumstances.
Swami Vivekananda was not just a passionate advocate of Vedanta but also brought its principles into practical application. He recognized the deep-rooted issues in India’s education system during his time—issues that continue to persist today. Modern India has placed significant emphasis on scientific and mechanistic approaches to life, which, according to Swami-ji, reduces human beings to mere machines. This focus has led to a dilution of moral and spiritual values.
According to Viveka-nanda, human beings are a blend of animality, humanity, and divinity. The purpose of education, he believed, should be to elevate individuals from the animalistic to the divine through self-effort, self-realization, and appropriate guidance. If India has faltered in any domain, it is in the failure to produce genuinely developed human beings—a vital element of a thriving society—through a well-rounded education system.
At times, it feels that Swami Vivekananda’s true place in Indian history and his contributions to the making of modern India have not been fully recognized or appreciated. The extent of his influence on national and global events is immeasurable, as the impact of such remarkable figures is both profound and pervasive, though often subtle. This is a modest attempt to highlight the lasting significance of his thoughts and actions in shaping a modern, progressive India.
Swami Vivekananda’s Teachings
Swami Vivekananda's teachings have had a profound impact on India's socio-cultural landscape. A staunch follower of Vedan-ta, he drew deeply from the wisdom of the Vedas and Upanishads, which he regarded as powerful sources of energy, knowledge, and strength. Through his extensive writings, Swamiji effectively communicated the essence of Vedanta, emphasizing its relevance to modern life.
One of the central themes in Swami Vivekananda's teachings was the trans-formative power of education. He believed that man is the architect of his own destiny, and that each individual, through their own capacity and self-effort, can not only shape their own future but also play a crucial role in societal progress. Swamiji argued that genuine social change is the result of spiritual forces working within us, and education is the means through which society can uplift itself and achieve higher standards of living. Swami Vivekananda was also a great catalyst for Nationalism during a time when India needed it most. His teachings emphasized the development of individuals through education and wisdom, making his message particularly relevant for the youth. He was the first to help the people of India realize the depth and richness of their cultural and religious heritage. His landmark speech at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893 introduced the world to India's spiritual legacy, leaving an indelible mark on global culture and religion.
Swami Vivekananda's influence was recognized by some of the greatest thinkers of his time. Harvard philosopher William James referred to him as the "Paragon of Vedantists," while 19th-century Orientalists Max Müller and Paul Deussen held him in the highest regard, acknowledging his profound contri- bution to the understanding of Eastern philosophy.
(To be contd)