Shillong, Jan 12: The 41st National Youth Day, commemorating the 163rd Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, was celebrated at Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Cultural Centre Shillong on Sunday.
Swami Hitakamanandaji Maharaj, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission, Shillong, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Dignitaries from Nehru Yuva Kendra and other monks were also present.
The program commenced with a floral offering at the Swami Vivekananda Statue, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and chanting of Swami Vivekananda’s Swadesh Mantra.
The opening song, a Khasi rendition dedicated to Swamiji, was beautifully presented by the students of the Ramakrishna Mission Students’ Home.
Welcoming the guests and attendees, Swami Vedeshananda, Director, Vivekananda Cultural Centre, shared inspiring anecdotes about Swami Vivekananda’s life, including his divine birth, his life of intense activity, his time spent in Shillong, and his profound love for his countrymen. The Director encouraged the audience to delve into the Life and Works of Swamiji to gain a deeper understanding of Indian Culture and its rich diversity, and to embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Swami Hitakamananda, in his address, emphasized the importance of “man-making and character-building education” as envisioned by Swami Vivekananda: : a life lived with truth, purity, and unselfishness. He elaborated on Swami Vivekananda’s quote, “Purity, patience, and perseverance are the three essentials to success, and above all, love,” highlighting the significance of cultivating these virtues in everyday life. Swami Hitakamananda urged the youth to internalize these values and strive for excellence in all their endeavors.
An hour-long cultural program followed, featuring captivating performances by students of Sanskriti and Vivekananda Youth Forum. The program included mesmerizing songs, graceful yoga demonstrations, and a unique presentation of Geeti Alekhya – a beautiful artistic expression that intertwined Swamiji’s life with soulful songs.
The program concluded with a heartfelt address by Swami Divyaswarupanandaji Maharaj, Assistant Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission Shillong. He urged the youth to draw inspiration from the words and teachings of Swami Vivekananda and actively contribute to the nation-building process.
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