Biography of Swami Vivekananda | Swami Vivekananda's Early Life

 

Swami Vivekananda (January 12, 1863 – July 4, 1902) was a renowned and influential spiritual teacher of Vedanta. His original name was Narendranath Datta. In 1893, he represented Hinduism at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago, USA. He founded the Ramakrishna Mission, which continues its work even today. He was given only two minutes to speak, but he is remembered for starting his speech with the words "My American brothers and sisters." This opening statement captivated the audience.

Born into a prominent Bengali Kayastha family in Kolkata, Vivekananda was drawn to spirituality from a young age. He was deeply influenced by his guru, Ramakrishna, from whom he learned that God resides in all beings; therefore, humanity, or those who help the needy, serve God through service to others. After Ramakrishna's death, Vivekananda traveled extensively across the Indian subcontinent, gaining firsthand knowledge of the conditions in British India. Later, in 1893, he went to America to represent India at the World Parliament of Religions. Vivekananda propagated the principles of Hindu philosophy in America, England, and Europe, delivering numerous public and private lectures. In India, Vivekananda is revered as a patriotic saint, and his birthday is celebrated as National Youth Day.

Swami Vivekananda's Early Life

Swami Vivekananda was born in Kolkata. His original name was Narendranath Datta. He was born into a prosperous and educated family, which provided him with a good upbringing and education from a young age. His father, Vishwanath Datta, was a renowned lawyer, and his mother, Bhubaneshwari Devi, was a devout and simple-living woman. Swami Vivekananda was raised in an environment rich with spirituality, religion, and high moral values. His parents instilled strong values ​​in him, and a deep religious inclination and thirst for knowledge were evident in Swami Vivekananda from his childhood.

Swami Vivekananda's formal education began at Presidency College in Kolkata, where he laid the foundation for his future studies. He was a brilliant student, excelling in all subjects at school. He had a particular interest in history, Sanskrit, and philosophy. His religious fervor and thirst for knowledge were so profound that he often questioned his teachers and peers about the deeper mysteries of life. This inquisitiveness led him on the path of exploration and enlightenment.

Swami Vivekananda's nature was contemplative and introspective, which distinguished him from other children. He had two streams of thought—one, a deep desire to understand the teachings of religious masters, and the other, a keen interest in Western philosophy and science. A significant turning point in his life came when he met Ramakrishna Paramhansa. Swami Vivekananda took lessons from Ramakrishna Paramhansa and imbibed his teachings. It was at this time that he gained clarity about his life's purpose and direction.

From his childhood and youth, Swami Vivekananda developed a passion and dedication for the upliftment of Indian culture and society. From his early days, he raised his voice against the prevailing superstitions, discrimination, and social inequalities in society. He believed that Indian society needed rejuvenation and to be restored to its former glory. Thus, Swami Vivekananda's early life was one of seeking knowledge, developing sensitivity towards society, and embracing high ideals, which were clearly evident in his later life as well.

Respect for Women

Swami Vivekananda's fame had spread far and wide. Once, he went to a foreign country for a religious conference. Many foreigners attended his program. A foreign woman was deeply impressed by his teachings.

She approached Swami Vivekananda and said, "I want to marry you so that my son can also become as great as you."

Swami Vivekananda replied, "Do you know that I am a renunciate? How can I marry? If you wish, you can consider me as your son. This way, my vow of celibacy will not be broken, and you will have a son like me." Hearing this, the foreign woman touched Swami Vivekananda's feet and said, "You are blessed! You are like a god! You never deviate from your path of righteousness, regardless of circumstances."

Lesson from the story

This story of Swami Vivekananda teaches us that a true man is one who respects women in all circumstances.