Swami Vivekananda, a key figure in the introduction of Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world, had a life full of extraordinary events and achievements. Here are 10 lesser-known facts about him:
1. Childhood Name
Swami Vivekananda was born as Narendranath Datta on January 12, 1863, in Kolkata (then Calcutta), India. His family often called him “Bilay.”
2. Photographic Memory
Vivekananda was known for his exceptional memory. He could memorize entire books after a single reading and recall them word for word.
3. Introduction to Ramakrishna
Initially, Vivekananda was skeptical about spirituality and questioned many sages, including Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. However, after meeting Ramakrishna, he found the answers he was seeking, eventually becoming his most devoted disciple.
4. Prophecy of Early Death
Swami Vivekananda had predicted he would not live beyond the age of 40. True to his words, he passed away at the age of 39 on July 4, 1902.
5. Role in the Indian National Movement
While he didn’t directly participate in politics, his teachings inspired numerous leaders, including Subhas Chandra Bose, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Mahatma Gandhi, in India’s struggle for independence.
6. First Monk to Represent Hinduism in the West
At the 1893 Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago, Vivekananda was the first Indian monk to represent Hinduism, starting his speech with the famous words: “Sisters and Brothers of America.”
7. Multi-Talented Individual
Apart from being a philosopher and spiritual leader, Vivekananda was skilled in music and could sing and play the tabla proficiently.
8. Promoter of Universal Brotherhood
He advocated for unity among religions and believed that all paths lead to the same truth. His message of tolerance and acceptance gained him immense respect worldwide.
9. Meditation on the Rock of Kanyakumari
In December 1892, Vivekananda meditated on a rock at the southern tip of India (now called Vivekananda Rock Memorial) to seek guidance for his life’s mission.
10. Interest in Science and Technology
Swami Vivekananda was deeply interested in science and believed in bridging spirituality with scientific advancements. He corresponded with Nikola Tesla and encouraged the exploration of Vedantic ideas in modern physics.
These facts underline the multi-faceted personality of Swami Vivekananda, making him a timeless figure in spiritual and cultural history.
