PM Modi on Saturday reflected on Swami Vivekananda’s historic speech at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893, emphasizing that its essence has the power to foster a more equitable, prosperous, and inclusive world
Vivekananda’s address, which highlighted the significance of Hinduism and Indian culture, garnered widespread acclaim and continues to resonate today.
Modi tweeted, “Reflecting on Swami Vivekananda’s iconic 1893 speech in Chicago, which eloquently showcased the importance of Indian culture. The message of his speech holds the potential to shape a more just, prosperous, and inclusive planet.”
The Prime Minister also shared a link to Belur Math, offering access to Swami Vivekananda’s speeches at the World’s Parliament of Religions.
Recalling Swami Vivekananda’s iconic 1893 speech at Chicago, which beautifully demonstrated the salience of Indian culture. The spirit of his speech has the potential to create a more just, prosperous and inclusive planet. https://t.co/1iz7OgAWm3
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 11, 2021
Here is the full text of Swami Vivekananda’s speech, as shared by Belur Math:
RESPONSE TO WELCOME
Delivered at the World’s Parliament of Religions, Chicago, on September 11, 1893
“Sisters and Brothers of America,
My heart overflows with joy as I rise to respond to the warm and gracious welcome extended to us. I offer my gratitude on behalf of the world’s oldest monastic order, on behalf of the ‘mother of religions,’ and in the name of the millions of Hindus of various castes and creeds.
I am also thankful to those speakers who have acknowledged that the delegates from the East bring with them the message of tolerance. I am proud to belong to a faith that has taught the world both tolerance and acceptance of all religions. We not only believe in universal tolerance, but we also embrace all religions as true. I am proud to belong to a nation that has offered refuge to the persecuted of every faith and nation. I am proud to say that India has sheltered the remnants of the Israelites, who sought refuge with us the very year their temple was destroyed by Roman tyranny. I am also proud that our religion has protected the last remnants of the noble Zoroastrian nation. I would like to quote a few lines from a hymn I have known since my childhood and which is recited daily by millions: ‘As the different streams having their sources in various places all merge into the sea, so, O Lord, do the different paths, no matter how diverse they seem, all lead to Thee.’
This gathering, one of the most remarkable in history, is a declaration to the world of the profound teaching from the Gita: ‘Whosoever approaches Me, no matter how, I meet him; all beings are on different paths striving towards Me.’ Sectarianism, bigotry, and fanaticism have long gripped this beautiful earth, filling it with violence and destruction. These forces have shattered civilizations and driven entire nations into despair. If it weren’t for these evils, humanity would have progressed much further. But their time is over; I earnestly hope that the bell ringing this morning in honor of this convention will sound the death-knell of fanaticism, persecution—whether by sword or pen—and all uncharitable feelings between those who seek the same ultimate goal.”
(With inputs from agency)
Share your news, articles, deals, columns, or press releases with us! Click the link to submit and join our platform today.
