Today marks the celebration of National Youth Day, which is the birth anniversary of renowned Hindu monk Swami Vivekananda. Born on January 12, 1863, Vivekananda played a crucial role in in the introduction of the Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. A chief disciple of the 19th-century Indian mystic Ramakrishna, he played a significant role in not just reshaping the western perspective of India, but also spread knowledge on the foundation of Hinduism. He also contributed to the concept of nationalism in colonial India. In India, Vivekananda is regarded as a patriotic saint who played a major role in shaping the youth of the country. This day is thus marked as National Youth Day. National Youth Day 2020 Date and Significance: Know History, Theme and Celebrations to Mark Swami Vivekananda’s Birth Anniversary.

Vivekananda Jayanti 2020 will be celebrated on January 12, and it marks the 157th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. A noted scholar celebrated Hindu monk and an impeccable orator, Vivekananda’s teachings and ideologies have impacted millions across the world and continue to resonate with many. As we celebrate Swami Vivekananda’s 157th Birth Anniversary, here is everything you need to know about Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, its history and significance.

When is Swami Vivekananda Jayanti Celebrated?

Vivekananda Jayanti is an annual celebration on the birthday of Swami Vivekananda. Born as Narendranath Datta, in a Bengali family in Kolkata, Swami Vivekananda went on to play a monumental role in shaping the image of India, on a global scale. Since he was born on January 12, 1863, this day is marked as Vivekananda Jayanti or National Youth Day.

Significance of Swami Vivekananda Jayanti

Vivekananda Jayanti plays as crucial a role in all our lives as Swami Vivekananda himself did in shaping India’s image in the modern world. It stands as a reminder of our core values, what India and Indians have evolved from and the potential that our ancestors upheld up to. Vivekananda Jayanti or National Youth Day is a day to remember the great contributions of Swami Vivekananda and applauding his role in not just saving Hinduism from the plight and suffering but putting India on the global map.

How is Swami Vivekananda Jayanti Celebrated?

Vivekananda Jayanti celebrations include everything from special programs, plays and conferences in schools, colleges and government institution to discussions and debates on the core teachings of Swami Vivekananda. Since Swami Vivekananda’s contribution to the youth of India has been significant, the celebrations also focus on educating the younger generation on the great people who made India proud, like Swamiji. His infamous speech in on India and Hinduism is openly discussed, revisited and analysed on this day.

Swami Vivekananda has been one of the most significant names in Indian history. This is the reason that Vivekananda Jayanti is a festival that is observed, especially in the Hindu Calendar. While his work and contributions continue to be applauded across the world, the role of Swami Vivekananda in every Indian’s life stands much higher. We hope that this Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, we go back to our roots and understand Swami Vivekananda’s perception and thoughts on India, Hinduism and everything else!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 11, 2020 12:06 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).