Narendranath Datta (Swami Vivekananda)
- Born:
- January 12, 1863, Calcutta, British India
- Died:
- July 4, 1902, Belur Math, Bengal Presidency, British India
- Nationality:
- Indian
- Profession(s):
- Hindu Monk, Philosopher, Author, Religious Teacher
Early Life and Education
- Born into an aristocratic Bengali Kayastha family.
- Studied at the Metropolitan Institution and Presidency College, Calcutta.
- Possessed a broad range of knowledge, including Western philosophy, history, and literature.
- Initially skeptical of organized religion, he was drawn to the teachings of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
Career and Major Achievements
- Became a disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and embraced monasticism.
- Traveled extensively throughout India as a parivrajaka (wandering monk), gaining firsthand knowledge of the country's socio-economic conditions.
- Attended the Parliament of the World's Religions in 1893, where his address is famously known as the instance of Swami Vivekananda speech in Chicago.
- Founded the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897 to promote social service, education, and spiritual growth.
- Established Vedanta Societies in America and Europe to spread Vedanta philosophy.
Notable Works
- Lectures from Colombo to Almora
- My Master
- Karma Yoga
- Raja Yoga
- Bhakti Yoga
- Jnana Yoga
Legacy and Impact
Swami Vivekananda's teachings on Vedanta philosophy, his emphasis on social service, and his powerful advocacy for India's spiritual heritage had a profound impact on both India and the West. He is credited with revitalizing Hinduism and promoting interfaith understanding.