New Delhi/ Bhopal, July 4, 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tributes to Swami Vivekananda on his death anniversary, describing his contribution to taking India's culture, spirituality and national consciousness to the global stage as unparalleled. He said Vivekananda's ideas continue to inspire millions of young people and provide fresh energy to the country's resolve of building a Viksit Bharat.

In a message posted on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Swami Vivekananda's intellect and inspiring thoughts continue to guide generations. He said the great monk's spiritual message would keep giving the nation new direction and renewed energy in achieving the goal of a developed India.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav also paid homage to Swami Vivekananda on his death anniversary. In a message shared on X, he said Vivekananda's life and teachings continue to inspire the youth towards self-confidence, service to society and nation-building. He described the monk as one of India's greatest spiritual leaders whose ideas remain relevant even today.

Born on January 12, 1863, Swami Vivekananda was the foremost disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa. He emerged as one of the leading voices of India's spiritual and cultural renaissance at a time when the country was searching for confidence in its own civilisational identity.

His address at the World's Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893 brought India's spiritual traditions to a global audience. Speaking on Vedanta, universal brotherhood and religious harmony, he introduced the world to India's philosophical heritage and earned recognition as one of the country's foremost cultural and spiritual ambassadors.

In the years that followed, Vivekananda travelled across the United States and Europe, delivering lectures on Indian philosophy and spirituality. While explaining India's ancient wisdom to the world, he also encouraged Indians to rediscover faith in their own culture, character and inner strength.

His message was equally directed at the youth. He believed that education should build character as much as knowledge and urged young people to develop courage, discipline and a spirit of selfless service. His words, "Arise, awake, and stop not till

the goal is reached," continue to inspire generations to pursue excellence with determination and purpose.

To carry forward the teachings of his guru, Swami Vivekananda founded the Ramakrishna Mission on May 1, 1897. The organisation continues to serve society through education, healthcare, rural development and humanitarian work in India and abroad.

Swami Vivekananda passed away on July 4, 1902, at the age of 39. His life lasted just 39 years, but his influence travelled far beyond India's shores. He introduced the country's spiritual thought to the world while urging Indians to rediscover confidence in their own civilisation. His words continue to inspire people who believe that personal growth and national progress go hand in hand.