The 163rd birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, observed as National Youth Day, was celebrated with enthusiasm at the Ramakrishna Mission TB Sanatorium, Ranchi, on January 12, 2025. Over 1000 students, teachers, devotees, and monks graced the occasion.
The celebration commenced with a vibrant procession. Starting from Bermad School, Balsiring Road, Tupudana (about 2 km away), more than 750 students from nearby schools, including Mahatma Gandhi School, Mother Teresa Memorial School, St. Thomas High School, Sri Govind High School, Vivekananda Abhyudaya Prakalpa, and Gadadhar Abhyudaya Prakalpa, joined the devotees and monks. The procession, marked by the lively beats of a student band, marched towards Vivekananda Circle in the Sanatorium, with participants carrying posters and placards highlighting Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and ideals. At Vivekananda Circle, the procession culminated in the offering of flowers at the life-size statue of Swami Vivekananda.
The students then proceeded to the celebration mandap, where they actively participated in various competitions organized by the Sanatorium. These included brief speeches on ‘Swamiji’s life and teachings’ by the students, as well as recitations of ‘Prabudha Bharata’ and ‘Swamiji’s Swadesh Mantra’ by junior (Std. VI-VII) and senior (Std. VIII-IX) groups, respectively. The program also featured captivating cultural performances, including group songs and traditional dances by students from the participating schools.
Dr. J.K. Rath, Honorary CMO, RKM TBS, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The top three winners in each category were awarded prizes, while all contestants received consolation prizes. The group cultural performers were also presented with mementos.
The event concluded with a closing song by the children of the Gadadhar Abhyudaya Prakalpa (GAP), followed by the distribution of cooked prasad to all those present.
The National Youth Day celebrations at the Ramakrishna Mission TB Sanatorium were a resounding success, inspiring the youth with Swami Vivekananda’s message of service, self-reliance, and spiritual growth.
