PM Modi unveils statue of Swami Vivekananda at JNU campus

Ebangla Bureau

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a life-size statue of Swami Vivekananda at the campus of Jawaharlal Nehru University on the occasion of his birth anniversary on January 12 through video conferencing amidst protest by the JNSU.  The status has been gifted by an alumnus of the central university. I wish that Swami Vivekananda’s statue in JNU will inspire and energize everyone. I hope this statue instils courage and compassion that Swami ji wanted to see in everyone, said PM Modi. Minister for Education Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank was earlier spoke about the relevance of Swami Vivekanand’s thoughts and teachings on socio-economic issues. PM Modi, is an ardent devotee of   Swami Vivekananda, who was born  Narendranath Datta on 12th January 1863 at Kolkata and passed away at Belur math on July 04, 1902, at 39. His birth anniversary is celebrated as the ‘International Youth Day’. Right from childhood, two aspects of his behavior could clearly be noticed. One was his devout and compassionate nature and the other was his readiness to perform any act of courage. Since his whole family was spiritually inclined, he received an appropriate religious upbringing.PM Modi said the philosophy and the mission of Swami Vivekananda beckon the youth of the country and India feels proud to have had such a great personality who continues to inspire millions across the world. The ideals of Swami Vivekananda are as relevant today as they were during the life of Swami ji, founder of Ramakrishna Mission and credited for allaying misinterpretation of Hinduism across the globe. The Prime Minister has emphasized that serving the masses and empowering the youth of the nation strengthens the country physically, mentally and spiritually as well as enhances the global image of the Nation. Prosperity and power of India reside in its people and, therefore, empowering all alone will take the nation towards achieving the solemn goal of a self-reliant India. he JNU VC in a statement said that Swami Vivekananda is one of the most beloved intellectuals and spiritual leaders India produced. “He (Swami Vivekananda) enthused the youth with his message of freedom, development, harmony and peace in India. He inspired citizens to take pride in Indian civilisation, culture and its industrious spirit,” JNU vice-chancellor Jagadesh Kumar said in his statement. “In his speeches and writing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi often invokes Swami Vivekananda’s life and mission and reminds the youth of the country to follow the ideals of this great son of India. JNU is grateful that on this occasion the Prime Minister has kindly consented to address the JNU community and, through it, the wider world,” he added. The event was live-streamed on Facebook. Edited by PK Chakravarty