New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday shared the Swami Vivekananda Chicago speech, calling it one of the most inspiring and celebrated moments in India’s history. Delivered in 1893 at the World’s Parliament of Religions, the speech introduced India and Hindu philosophy to the world and remains a timeless message of tolerance and universal brotherhood.
On X, PM Modi wrote, “This speech by Swami Vivekananda, delivered in Chicago on this day in 1893, is widely regarded as a watershed moment. Emphasising harmony and universal brotherhood, he passionately spoke about the ideals of Indian culture on the world stage. It is truly among the most celebrated and inspiring moments in our history.”
Swami Vivekananda began his address with the now-famous words, “Sisters and Brothers of America,” which were unusual in formal speeches at that time. His message of religious tolerance and universal acceptance earned him a standing ovation that lasted over two minutes. Through his speech, Swamiji highlighted the importance of syncretism, respect for all religions, and the need to overcome fanaticism, ideas that remain deeply relevant today.
In his speech, Swami Vivekananda introduced Hindu philosophy to the global audience, emphasizing tolerance and universal acceptance. “I am proud to belong to a religion which has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance. We believe not only in universal toleration, but we accept all religions as true. I am proud to belong to a nation which has sheltered the persecuted and the refugees of all religions and all nations of the earth,” he said.
Swamiji also referenced historical examples, noting how Hindus gave refuge to the persecuted Israelites and the Zoroastrians, demonstrating the long-standing Indian tradition of hospitality and compassion. He reinforced his message with quotes from the Bhagavad Gita, stressing that all paths, though different, ultimately lead to the same truth.
Vivekananda’s words served as a warning against sectarianism, bigotry, and fanaticism, which he observed were major sources of human suffering. “Sectarianism, bigotry, and its horrible descendant, fanaticism, have long possessed this beautiful earth… But their time is come; and I fervently hope that the bell that tolled this morning in honour of this convention may be the death-knell of all fanaticism,” he said.
By sharing this historic speech, PM Modi highlighted Swami Vivekananda’s timeless message of tolerance, universal brotherhood, and the enduring values of Indian culture, inspiring the nation’s youth to uphold these ideals in contemporary society.
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