National Youth Day 2024: Honoring Vivekananda

Today marks the observance of National Youth Day in India, a day dedicated to commemorating the anniversary of Swami Vivekananda's birth on January 12. Established in 1984, this day encourages the nation's youth to embody and uphold the ideals, values, and beliefs championed by Vivekananda. In line with the celebration of National Youth Day, India annually hosts the National Youth Festival from January 12 to 16, remembering Vivekananda. This year's festival is themed “Viksit Bharat@ 2047: Yuva ke liye, yuva ke dwara,” as reported by the Press Trust of India.

Swami Vivekananda: An Iconic Figure

Renowned as one of India's most influential monks, Swami Vivekananda played a pivotal role in introducing Hinduism to the Western world. As a follower of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa, he was instrumental in fostering national unity during British rule in India and played a key role in rejuvenating Hinduism within the country. His iconic speech at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893 is well remembered. Vivekananda passionately spoke against sectarianism, bigotry, and fanaticism, expressing his hope that, "… the bell that tolled this morning in honour of this convention may be the death knell of all fanaticism, of all persecutions with the sword or with the pen, and of all uncharitable feelings between persons wending their way to the same goal.

Rashtriya Yuva Diwas: An Overview

Every year on January 12th, India celebrates National Youth Day, also known as Rashtriya Yuva Diwas. This significant day is dedicated to commemorating the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda and emphasizes the role of youth in nation-building. The day is marked with various activities that highlight the importance of youths in upholding the values and ideals of Swami Vivekananda. The day is a reflection of the commitment to educating young individuals in India about their rights and the significance of ethical behaviour within the country. The central focus of the day is to energize and encourage the youth, spreading Swami Vivekananda's teachings to foster a brighter and more prosperous future for India. The day is also known by another name, Yuva Diwas.

History Behind National Youth Day

In 1984, the Government of India declared January 12th, the birthday of Swami Vivekananda, as National Youth Day. Since then, the day has been observed across the country to inspire the youth through the teachings and life of Swami Vivekananda. The observance of this day is pivotal in stimulating the inherent vigour in the youth and contributing to the holistic growth of the nation.

Significance of the Day

National Youth Day, also referred to as Yuva Diwas, is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm at various centres associated with Ramakrishna Math, Ramakrishna Mission, and their branches. These celebrations are imbued with Indian cultural and traditional practices. Educational institutions, including schools and colleges, partake in the celebrations by organizing parades, speeches in honour of Swami Vivekananda, recitations, musical events, symposiums, essay competitions, and seminars. Students participate actively by delivering presentations and talks inspired by Swami Vivekananda, aiming to energize India's youth. Additionally, competitions at both national and international levels are conducted to promote education, foster trust among young people, and contribute to the nation's comprehensive development.

PM's Tribute

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Swami Vivekananda on the occasion of his birth anniversary, emphasizing that Vivekananda played a pivotal role in bringing Indian spirituality and culture to the forefront internationally. Highlighting the vigour and dynamism of Swami Vivekananda, PM Modi remarked on social media platform X that Vivekananda's teachings and philosophies continue to be a source of inspiration for the youth at all times. Later in the day, PM Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the 27th National Youth Festival in Nashik, Maharashtra. This annual event, held in honour of Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary, attracts participation from young individuals from all over India.

Conclusion

National Youth Day in India, celebrated on January 12th, stands as a significant tribute to the enduring legacy of Swami Vivekananda. It is a day that not only honours one of India's most esteemed spiritual and cultural icons but also serves as a catalyst for empowering and inspiring the nation's youth. Through a variety of educational and cultural activities, the day reinforces the values and teachings of Vivekananda, encouraging young minds to contribute actively to the nation's progress and unity. The participation and engagement of the youth in these celebrations reflect their commitment to carrying forward Vivekananda's vision for a vibrant, enlightened India.

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