Kolkata

West Bengal on Monday marked the 163rd birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda with prayer meetings, processions and tributes across the state.

At Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, commemorations began in the early hours with mangal arati followed by special prayers. Devotees from various parts of the state gathered at the site from dawn to pay homage, while a series of programmes have been scheduled throughout the day.

The day is also observed nationwide as National Youth Day.

Branches of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission across West Bengal organised processions to mark the occasion, with students from several schools participating in the events.

At Simla Street in north Kolkata, the birthplace of Swami Vivekananda, Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar and Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari offered floral tributes to the revered monk and philosopher.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said Swami Vivekananda’s ideals of patriotism, social service and communal harmony continue to inspire generations and serve as a guiding force for society.

In a post on X, Banerjee described Swami Vivekananda as a symbol of India’s spiritual consciousness and said his teachings on love for the nation, service to the poor and the suffering, and the message of unity and peace have always inspired her.

She added that the path of harmony among all religions shown by Swami Vivekananda forms the foundation of Bengal’s social ethos. Expressing hope for the future, the Chief Minister said that inspired by his ideals, people of the state—irrespective of religion or caste—would continue to respect and care for one another.

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Banerjee also highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the state government to honour and preserve Swami Vivekananda’s legacy.