Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Maharashtra Prant, Vidarbh Vibhag, Nagpur Branch, organized a special lecture on “Vartaman Yug Mein Vishwa Bandhutva” (Universal Brotherhood in the Contemporary Era) on the occasion of Universal Brotherhood Day on 13 September 2026 at Nagpur. Renowned author and thinker Shri Prashant Pole addressed the gathering as the Chief Speaker.
Shri Bharat Joshi ji, Vidarbha Vibhag Pramukh; Dr. Vilas Deshpande ji, Nagar Sanchalak, Nagpur; and Smt. Kshama Dabholkar, Nagar Pramukh, Nagpur, were present on the dais. The programme commenced with Vivek Vani presented by Kum. Aastha.
In his address, Shri Prashant Pole recalled Swami Vivekananda’s historic address at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago on 11 September 1893. He highlighted how Swamiji’s opening words, “Sisters and Brothers of America,” expressed a deep sense of fraternity rooted in Bharat’s spiritual vision. He explained that Swamiji’s message went beyond tolerance and presented an inclusive outlook based on acceptance, peaceful coexistence and the oneness of humanity.
Speaking on the contemporary relevance of Universal Brotherhood, Shri Prashant Pole observed that conflicts among nations and differences based on religion continue to challenge harmony in the world. He explained that Hindu philosophy, with its acceptance of diverse paths, traditions and forms of worship, provides a foundation for peaceful coexistence and world brotherhood. He also referred to the ideal of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – the world is one family, and cited India’s humanitarian assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic and evacuation operations during international crises as examples of this spirit in action.
Book Release
As part of the programme, six books were released. These included Hindu Rashtra Ke Hriday Ki Dhadkan, the Hindi translation of Heart Beats of Hindu Nation by Mananeeya Shri P. Parameswaran Ji, former President of Vivekananda Kendra, founder of Bharatiya Vichara Kendram and Padma Vibhushan awardee. The Hindi translation was done by Dr. Lakheshwar Chandrawanshi. The other books released were Rashtra Aradhana Ka Beejmantra Vande Mataram, Arsa Nisargacha Varasa Sannacha, Dhyan, Pranjuchya Goshti and Sanatan Dharma.
Sinhnaad Abhivachan Spardha Prize Distribution
Prizes were also distributed to the winners of the Sinhnaad Abhivachan Spardha, organized earlier by Vivekananda Kendra for youth in the 16–45 age group. The competition was conducted in Hindi and English under college and open categories. The winners were presented with mementoes, certificates and books.
The programme was compered by Nidhi Kulkarni, while Smt. Kshama Dabholkar, Nagar Pramukh, Nagpur, proposed the vote of thanks. The programme provided a meaningful platform to reflect on Swami Vivekananda’s message of Universal Brotherhood and its relevance in contemporary society.
