Vivekananda was born in Kolkata, India, in 1863. He was a brilliant student and excelled in his studies. In 1881, he graduated from the University of Calcutta with a degree in philosophy.

After graduating, Vivekananda began to search for spiritual enlightenment. He traveled to Varanasi, India, where he met Ramakrishna, a Hindu mystic and saint. Ramakrishna became Vivekananda’s guru, and under his guidance, Vivekananda began to study and practice Vedanta, a Hindu philosophy that emphasizes the unity of all beings.

In 1893, Vivekananda was invited to speak at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago. His speech, “The Vedanta Philosophy,” was a sensation, and he quickly became a leading figure in the Hindu revival movement.

After the Parliament of Religions, Vivekananda traveled to the United States and Europe, giving lectures and spreading the message of Vedanta. He also established the Ramakrishna Mission, a charitable organization that promotes social service and spiritual education.

Vivekananda died in 1902 at the age of 39. He was a towering figure in Indian history, and his legacy continues to inspire people around the world.

Vivekananda’s Teachings

Vivekananda’s teachings are based on the principles of Vedanta, which emphasize the unity of all beings and the potential for all people to achieve enlightenment. He believed that everyone has the potential to be a divine being, and he taught that the path to enlightenment is through self-realization.

Vivekananda’s teachings are often summarized in his famous saying, “Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached.” This saying is a call to action, urging people to awaken to their true potential and to strive for spiritual perfection.

Vivekananda’s Influence

Vivekananda’s teachings have had a profound impact on the world. He is credited with helping to revive Hinduism in India and with introducing Vedanta to the West. His teachings have also inspired many people to pursue spiritual paths and to work for social justice.

Vivekananda is considered one of the most important figures in modern Hinduism. His teachings continue to inspire people around the world, and he is revered as a saint and a guru.