“otho, jaago, egiye cholo” (arise, wake-up, don’t stop till you reach your goal), were the inspiring words by Swami Vivekananda whose teaching were simple but practical. World is celebrating his 159th birth anniversary on Thursday January 12th today.

Special programmes are organised across all the Ramakrishna Missions in the country and outside India. The main function was held at Swami Vivekananda’s residence in Shimla Road, north Kolkata. Apart from that, special puja was also held at the Belur Math in Howrah district of West Bengal where Swami Vivekananda took samadhi at the age of 39. The Belur Math is also the headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission sect.

Swami Vivekananda always said humanity above any religion. He asked, “maanush r jonne dhormo na dhoro r jonne maanush?” (Is religion for people or people for religion?). He followed the philosophies laid down by his Master or ‘guru’, Ramakrishna Paramhansa who spoke of simple and practical way to follow religion. He believed God is one and to reach Him all one is required to do is to madidate. Swamiji, once said people should play football than sitting in prayers whole day long.

This day each year is also celebrated as National Youth Day. Swami Vivekananda always placed the youth power above everything and said any country can prosper only if the youth in that country are disciplined and dedicated in their goals.

President Draupadi Murmu tweeted to pay her tributes to Swami Vivekananda.

“My tributes to Swami Vivekananda on his birth anniversary! An iconic personality who combined spirituality and patriotism, he propagated Indian values globally. His life and teachings continue to inspire youth to follow their dreams and achieve greater goals.”

The Prime Minister in his message said his great ideals and ideas will continue to guide the countrymen. PM Modi said, the life, patriotism, spiritualism and dedication will always inspire the youth.

PM Modi who had a deep connection with the Ramakrishna Mission since his early days and had once decided to join the sect also mentioned how the life and teaching of Swami Vivekananda had a major influence on him.

The day is also observed as the National Youth Day.