Universal Brotherhood Day Celebrated at Vivekananda Kendra’s Delhi Centre
Delhi, September 8, 2024 – Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari’s Delhi Branch celebrated “Universal Brotherhood Day” at their centre in Chanakyapuri , marking the 131st anniversary of Swami Vivekananda’s historic address at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago.
The event commenced with a ceremonial invocation, followed by the felicitation of the distinguished guests and a Geet in honor of Swami Vivekananda. Dr. Nikhil Yadav, Prant Yuva Pramukh of Vivekananda Kendra Uttar Prant, introduced the theme of the day. He reflected on the challenges Swami Vivekananda faced in America, including discrimination and hostility. Despite these adversities, Swami Vivekananda began his seminal speech with the now-iconic salutation, “Sisters and Brothers of America,” emphasizing the values of universal harmony and religious tolerance. Dr. Yadav quoted Swami Vivekananda’s profound insights, stating, “Love must conquer hatred; hatred cannot conquer itself. Materialism and all its miseries can never be conquered by materialism. Armies, when they attempt to conquer armies, only multiply and make brutes of humanity. Spirituality must conquer the West.” This quote highlighted the core message of the day and the enduring relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s teachings. Smt. Monika Arora, Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India, was the distinguished guest of honor. She delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the profound legacy of India’s ancient civilization and its long-standing practice of the ideals of universal brotherhood. Smt. Arora encouraged attendees to explore India’s rich heritage through ancient texts and scriptures to gain a deeper understanding of these timeless principles.
Swami Sarvalokananda Ji, Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission Delhi, delivered the keynote address. He highlighted the continued relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s teachings in today’s world, advocating for mutual respect and understanding among diverse cultures and religions. Swami Sarvalokananda Ji urged individuals to cultivate love and resolve disputes within their families before looking outward. He also emphasized the importance of understanding Indian culture rather than blindly following Western practices. The Swami called on the audience to actively promote the ideals of universal brotherhood in their daily lives, stating, “Swami Vivekananda’s message is more relevant than ever. Today’s event serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to foster an environment of peace and understanding.”
In his closing remarks, Shri Shiv Kumar Ji, Seh-Pramukh of Vivekananda Kendra Uttar Prant, thanked everyone for their participation and encouraged them to join the movement with open hearts. The program concluded with the distribution of Prasad.
Additionally, the results of the paper presentation competition held the previous day on the theme of “Universal Brotherhood” were announced, and the top three winners were felicitated.
The celebration was attended by approximately 250 local dignitaries, community leaders, university faculty, scholars, undergraduate students, and members of the Vivekananda Kendra, all coming together to honor the enduring legacy of Swami Vivekananda. Vivekananda Kendra continues to play a pivotal role in promoting Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and fostering a sense of unity and peace across diverse communities.
