Swami Vivekananda: A Voice for Unity and Justice on National Youth Day

Today, as we celebrate National Youth Day on the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, we reflect on the values of equality, justice, and harmony that this extraordinary leader embodied. Born on 12th January 1863, Swami Vivekananda dedicated his life to the upliftment of humanity, advocating for unity, dignity, and the empowerment of the marginalized. His timeless message resonates as a clarion call against divisiveness, fanaticism, and authoritarianism in all forms.

A pioneer of interfaith harmony and cultural understanding, Swami Vivekananda believed in the inherent equality of all religions and communities. His famous statement, "For our own motherland, a junction of the two great systems, Hinduism and Islam, is the only hope," reflects his vision for a society built on mutual respect and collaboration. He acknowledged that individuals who converted to other religions often sought dignity and equality that they felt denied within their own communities. To this, he offered a profound thought: if conversion provided even a glimpse of emancipation, it could not be condemned, for emancipation is equivalent to salvation.

Swami Vivekananda stood firmly against the forces of exclusion, oppression, and prejudice. He recognized that the strength of any nation lies in the empowerment of its people—across caste, creed, or religion. His teachings challenged the societal hierarchies and injustices of his time, urging us to build a world rooted in justice, not division.

On this day, as we honour his life, let us draw inspiration from his words:
"Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached."

This call to action is more relevant than ever in a world where the shadows of fascism threaten to undermine our shared humanity. Swami Vivekananda envisioned a society where no one is excluded, no voice is silenced, and no group is oppressed. His teachings remind us that true strength lies in unity, and true progress is measured by the upliftment of the weakest among us.

Let National Youth Day serve as a reminder of our responsibility to uphold these ideals. Let us reject hatred and divisiveness and work toward a world of equality, justice, and freedom. Swami Vivekananda’s legacy is a beacon of hope—a powerful reminder that change begins when we stand together against tyranny and for the dignity of all.

Together, let us strive to fulfil his dream of a united, inclusive, and compassionate world.