Vivekananda: Modern India's first iconic ambassador

A leading Indian weekly posed the question “Who do you see as your role model?” to respondents across the country, some time ago. 

Day after day, various sad incidents and stories stir the conscience of the nation and goad almost every common citizen to want a complete change or transformation. Again, as we zoom in from the macro to the micro, we realise that the root of these conflicts and afflictions lies in the unconscious, egoic minds of the individuals, which are often without space for love, life and oneness. Our schooling today is almost devoid of any care and attention to nurture this core of the being, which ought to be the bed rock on which all else can grow.

Some time ago, while traveling alone in a foreign land, I vividly recall being momentarily gripped by a feeling of despondency and even fear. A new place, unknown language and the overwhelming context induced this feeling, I guess. Almost guided by instinct, thoughtlessly, I opened my handbag and pulled out a small book of Swami Vivekananda, ‘Way to Success’, which I usually carry. As I barely read a randomly opened page, it had a literally levitating effect, infusing complete hope, joy, confidence and faith. ‘What magical power of live-wire words!’ I felt. My rational, western educated intellect and little mind tried to rebel. “How can you be so irrational?” it questioned uncomfortably. The deeper witness gently watched this cloudy thought pass away. 

It was very heartening to see Dr Abdul Kalam being ranked first in the survey in question. Similar surveys with students across the country have drawn out the name of Swami Vivekananda as an evergreen iconic role model. The word ‘role model’ has limitations, I agree. Each one of us is a unique being with infinite possibilities. To stifle or suffocate our ‘selves’ and hammer our beings into this or that is certainly not what is recommended. 

Yet, role models can still serve as Beacon lights, inspiring and drawing out the best. Even for a great giant like Swami Vivekananda, Sri Ramakrishna was a beacon of light! That little, priceless book of Swami Vivekananda was priced at Rs4. Yet, it was so valuable and each word so powerful that it could stir one up and dispel doubts and darkness to reveal peace, purpose and joy. 

Wouldn’t this be a great gift that one can give to those around us, especially young students and teachers? As we celebrate the 151st birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, today, can we resolve to reach out and dip into books, CDs, e-banners and e-posters on Vivekananda’s life?

Modern India’s first iconic ambassador swept the western world with his simple words, “Sisters and brothers of America”. He demonstrated that even simple words, when uttered by a life of purity, clarity and spontaneity have unimaginable power and influence. For the youth of the 21st century world, Swami Vivekananda is indeed an icon. He is an icon who symbolises confidence, concentration, focus, consciousness, compassion, selfless work, courage, eloquence, intellect, modernity, scientific temper and charisma. He strode the world and straddled across cultures and geographies with ease and gave the most relevant, precious gift and legacy for posterity.

The dormant treasure of consciousness in the flesh, blood and cells of each citizen on planet earth will, I’m sure, respond with certitude to the clarion call of Swami Vivekananda. Let us invoke him on his 151st birthday with silence and feel his powerful presence in and around us.

Jayanti S Ravi 
The author is a Harvard educated civil servant and writer, now working in the education sector