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Swami Vivekananda - Biography

Vivekananda is a name associated with spiritual greatness and enlightenment. His life and teaching had a profound impact on India's spiritual culture and inspired millions of people around the world. Let's dive into Vivekananda's biography and learn more about his illustrious life and legacy.

Swami Vivekananda, real name Narendranath Dutta, was born on 12 January 1863 in Kolkata, India. His childhood was common, but he always showed an interest in spiritual and philosophical issues. In 1888, he met his spiritual master, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, who inspired him on the path of spiritual search.

After the death of his teacher, Swami embarked on a long journey through India, studying its culture, religions and society. His travels allowed him to see the diversity and richness of Indian spiritual tradition. In 1893, he represented India at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago, where his speech on world religious tolerance and unity made a huge impression on the audience.

Swami preached the doctrine of Vedanta and Karma - ancient Indian philosophical systems. He argued that a true understanding of spirituality and god could be achieved through individual self-awareness and spiritual practice. His teaching emphasized the importance of serving your neighbor and kindness to others.

Swami Vivekananda returned to India and founded Ramakrishna Mission and Ramakrishna Mat. These organizations are dedicated to the spiritual development and service of society. He urged his followers to apply spiritual ideas to daily life and to serve those in need.

Swami had a huge influence on the modern spiritual movement. His teachings and ideas became an inspiration to many spiritual teachers and meditation practitioners. His works including "Bhagavad-gita as it is" and "Raja Yoga" remain popular and are considered classics of spiritual literature.