Swami Vivekananda... just hearing the name fills one with energy and enthusiasm, and the same is true of his deeds. He was a gem bestowed upon India, who polished himself and illuminated the world around him, presenting the glory of sacrifice and teaching us the true meaning of living. Though this gem is no longer physically present, Swamiji is always with us through his thoughts. If there is anything we truly need today, it is to shape society by keeping Swamiji’s ideas in mind to create the India of his vision.
According to Swamiji, the first step toward achieving anything is self-confidence. If India aspires to succeed on the global stage, every Indian must first cultivate the belief that we can do it. He stated, "When a person or a nation loses faith, death is near." Therefore, what we need most today is faith.
Swami Vivekananda conveyed the ultimate truth: "Strength is life, and weakness is death." Dreaming of a victorious India with a weak body and mind would be sheer foolishness. To make the dream of an immortal and glorious India a reality, everyone must be strong, healthy, and enthusiastic—not only physically but also mentally.
While physical strength is vital, mental strength is equally important, and this mental fortitude can only be cultivated through disciplined thought. We can achieve this through proper education, as the foundation and future of any nation depend on the quality of education it provides. Swamiji always emphasized education that builds character, strengthens the mind, broadens thinking, and fosters self-reliance.
In a society where knowledge is revered, there should be no place for discrimination based on caste, gender, or any other differences. Swamiji also championed women's education, asserting that a great woman can nurture great individuals. He believed that only when we harmonize our Vedanta philosophy with Western science can we reach the pinnacle of success.
Even today, our country suffers from many afflictions, including poverty, illiteracy, insecurity for women, and unemployment. To prevent our nation from sinking deeper into this pit of hopelessness, the only way forward is to follow Swamiji’s teachings.
To create the India that Swamiji dreamed of, we need spirituality, true religion, and young people who believe in universal brotherhood, love, purity, and, most importantly, actions that bring these principles into practice. Without action, nothing can be achieved.
So, let’s unite and resolutely follow Swamiji’s teachings to build the India of his vision.
Vande Mataram!
Damini Bhushan Rajput
My name is Damini Rajput, and I am a final-year engineering student studying in Pune, Maharashtra. I first encountered Swami Vivekananda and his teachings when I was in the 8th standard. Back then, I was immensely motivated by his thoughts, and I continue to find myself curious about his vision and history. Though English is not my first language, I have tried my best to write this article. May his thoughts enlighten our minds and souls.