A Bronze statue of Swami Vivekananda was unveiled at Ramakrishna Advaita Ashrama, Kalady by Srimat Swami Divyanandaji Maharaj, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Cossipore, Kolkata, West Bengal.
The Chief Guest of the programme was Sri P S Sreedharan Pillai, Honorable Governor of Goa. Other distinguished guests were — Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, Additional Judge of Kerala High court, and Sri Anoop Sankar, renowned playback singer.
Revered Maharaj was offered with Purna Kumbha Swagatam at the Ashrama entrance. All the distinguished guests accompanied Maharaj and were taken in a procession to the Temple and later to the Swami Vivekananda’s Statue Mantapam with the accompaniment of Kerala traditional Pancavadyam and Vedic Chanting by Shankara Math priests. Many people were gathered on this occasion.
After the completion of the unveiling, there was a Chicago Address Commemoration meeting at the Ashrama auditorium from 11.00 am onwards. On 11 September 1893, Swami Vivekananda gave a famous lecture at the Parliament of Religion, Chicago. The impact of that lecture was enormous for the good of the whole world, our Motherland and for Hindu religion. Swamiji also preached the Harmony of Religion. Hence this day is now celebrated as the Universal Brotherhood Day.
Swami Srividyananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Advaita Ashrama, Kalady, delivered the welcome address. In his speech he highlighted the significance of the Chicago address and emphasised upon Swami Vivekananda’s profound message of universal love.
In his Presidential address, Srimat Swami Divyanandaji Maharaj spoke about Swamiji’s contribution for the upliftment of the whole world and the divinity of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. He shed light on the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, emphasising religious harmony and the innate divinity within every human being.
Honourable Governor of Goa, Sri P S Sreedharan Pillai who was former Justice Kerala High Court spoke at length about the vision of Swami Vivekananda for the future of mankind. He said Swamiji preached positivity, strength and about overcoming negativity and weakness. He said Swamiji offered valuable advice to the youth, urging them to embrace and practise selfless service as a means to realise Swami Vivekananda’s dreams.
Justice Sri K. Ramakrishnan, Additional Judge of Kerala High court highlighted the importance of hard work as the pathway for the youth to serve the nation effectively.
Sri Anoop, a talented playback singer, added a touch of devotion to the entire event by singing a beautiful song. He emphasised the unique nature of Sanatana Dharma, which has the potential to unite individuals from all walks of life in the pursuit of peace and harmony for the entire universe.
