Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda on Sunday described the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Swami Vivekananda as the time to take step towards building a vigilant nation.
He was speaking at a religious meeting organised as part of 150th birth anniversary of the greatest monk ever seen, on the premises of Mysore Palace.
The meet had been organised by the district administration in association with Sri Ramakrishna Ashram.
The chief minister said though India gained independence over six decades ago, still it has not attained progress as foreseen by the freedom fighters who laid down their lives. The people of the nation should reorganise again to put up a show of unity.
It could be possible only when words are put into action. Without making any delay, we should take a decision to free the society from the clutches of social malady which has been causing fissure at times.
Mincing no words, the chief minister said that the country will witness development only when we tread the path set by Swami Vivekananda.
Stating that the year also coincides with the centenary year of the Palace, the chief minister said that the very occasion should be celebrated in a festive manner.
General secretary of Sri Ramakrishna Ashram and Mission, Belur Math, West Bengal, Swami Prabhanandaji said Swami Vivekananda is a living force who continues to inspire many a soul even after 120 years of his demise. He gave a call to the younger generation especially those below 20 years of age group who form the chunk of Indian population to translate the preachings of the monk into deed.
Prof H Prabhushankar recalled the association of Rashtrakavi Kuvempu and Sri Ramakrishna Ashrama. Another prominent litterateur Hampa Nagarajaiah paid tribute to the Swami in his speech.
Laser show on Swami Vivekananda was the highlight of the evening. Artificial smoke produced towards Jayamarthanda Gate was the screen for the show, that paid obeisance to not only Vivekananda but also to revolutionary saint Basavanna and Wadiyar’s of Mysore for playing host to Swami who had visited the palace in 1892.
