On 8th September 2024, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Uttar Prant, Delhi Branch organized the Universal Brotherhood Day program at the Chanakyapuri Center, marking the 131st anniversary of Swami Vivekananda’s historic address at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago.
The event began with a prayer, followed by the felicitation of distinguished guests and a special Geet in honor of Swami Vivekananda. Dr. Nikhil Yadav, Uttar Prant Yuva Pramukh, VRM & VK 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 opened his iconic speech with the famous salutation, “Sisters and Brothers of America,” emphasizing universal brotherhood and religious tolerance. Dr. Yadav quoted Swami Vivekananda, saying, “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 captured the core message of the day and underscored the continued relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s teachings.
Smt. Monika Arora, Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India, was the distinguished guest of honor. In her inspiring address, she emphasized the profound legacy of India’s ancient civilization and its long-standing commitment to the ideals of universal brotherhood. She encouraged the attendees to explore India’s rich heritage through ancient texts and scriptures to gain a deeper understanding of these timeless principles.
Pujyashri Swami Sarvalokananda Ji, Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission Delhi, delivered the keynote address. He highlighted the ongoing 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 the audience to first 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 concluding remarks, Shri Shiv Kumar Ji, Uttar Prant Sah-Pramukh of Vivekananda Kendra, 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 winners of the paper presentation competition, held the previous day on the theme of "Universal Brotherhood," were announced and felicitated.
The celebration was attended by 250 local dignitaries, community leaders, university faculty, scholars, undergraduate students, and members of the Vivekananda Kendra. Together, they honored the enduring legacy of Swami Vivekananda. Vivekananda Kendra continues to play a pivotal role in promoting his teachings and fostering unity and peace across diverse communities.
