Commemorating the Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda
1. Musical Tribute – ‘Sufiana Qalam’
11 January 2026
As part of the National Youth Day observances, a soulful musical tribute titled “Sufiana Qalam” was held on 11 January 2026 at the Vivekananda Institute of Values, Gurugram. The programme was presented by Shri Mir Mukhtiyar Ali and his team, whose devotional Sufi renditions elevated the audience to a deeply reflective and spiritual mood aligned with Swami Vivekananda’s Advaitic message.
The concert began at 3:00 p.m. and concluded at 5:30 p.m. Nearly 150 participants attended the programme. Photographs and video clippings of the event were recorded for documentation.
2. National Youth Day Celebration – “Youth: The Future of India”
12 January 2026
The National Youth Day programme was held on 12 January 2026 at the Ramakrishna Mission, Vivekananda Institute of Values, Gurugram, in reverent commemoration of the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. The event highlighted Swamiji’s vision of empowered, value-oriented, and service-driven youth.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Ms. Amala Halder, followed by Vedic chanting by IIT Delhi students Shri P. T. Nandh Kishore and Shri Madhur Pandya, creating a serene and elevating atmosphere.
Revered Swami Shantatmananda Maharaj, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission, Gurugram, delivered the inaugural address, emphasizing youth leadership, disciplined character-building, compassionate action, and the integration of Swamiji’s ideals with modern responsibilities.
A series of insightful student presentations followed. Speakers from leading institutions—including Venkateshwara International School, Adler Graduate Professional School (Toronto), Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, and Apeejay School—reflected on themes such as self-belief, purposeful living, ethical leadership, and the contemporary relevance of Swamiji’s teachings.
The cultural segment included a group song by students of Apeejay School, Pitampura; a vocal performance by Ms. Surbhi Samdhani and team; and a moving skit, “Nivedita ki Pathshala”, performed by students of Kilkari Charitable Society, Gurugram, portraying Swamiji’s influence and Sister Nivedita’s pioneering work in women’s education.
The highlight of the programme was the keynote address by Padma Shri Dr. Deepa Malik, India’s first female Paralympic medalist. She shared her inspiring journey of resilience, experiential learning, and nation-building through inclusive sports, drawing upon Swami Vivekananda’s ideals as guiding principles.
The programme concluded with final remarks by Swami Shantatmananda Maharaj, a brief overview of VIVA initiatives, distribution of certificates and publications, and a vote of thanks by Mr. Aman Rana.
Conclusion
The two-day observance of National Youth Day served as a powerful reaffirmation of Swami Vivekananda’s message. Both the musical tribute and the youth conference inspired participants to imbibe strength, character, and service, transforming Swamiji’s ideals into living practice.
