Opinion: How Modi is treading Swami Vivekananda's way and vision

Swami Vivekananda, a profound spiritual leader and philosopher, left an indelible mark on the course of Indian nationalism and the quest for nation building. His teachings and ideals continue to inspire millions, shaping the very essence of India's identity and purpose. Vivekananda's perspective on nationalism was deeply rooted in spirituality, ethics, and selfless service, making him a true guiding light for the nation.

Vivekananda's vision for a united India, the culmination of his meditative contemplation at Kanyakumari, is emblematic of his commitment to a singular purpose. He emphasised that to achieve the greater good, individuals should immerse themselves in a single noble idea and let it permeate every fibre of their being. This unwavering focus on one's chosen ideal, he believed, was the path to success and the cultivation of spiritual giants.

His philosophy of "making that one idea your life" has profound implications for personal growth and societal transformation. It encourages us to channel our energies into a purposeful pursuit, allowing the brain, muscles, and nerves to align towards a common goal. By living and breathing this idea, individuals can contribute significantly to the betterment of society and the nation at large.

Vivekananda's teachings underscored the power of individual responsibility in shaping collective destiny. He stressed that individuals are not only responsible for their current state but also possess the power to shape their future. Just as our past actions have led us to the present, our present actions can mould our future. This resonates with the idea that our actions today, rooted in selflessness and service, can be the driving force behind the nation's progress.

His comprehensive personality encompassed both spirituality and social service. Vivekananda's call for "man-making" as the foundation of nation-building emphasises the significance of individual character and values. He believed that by nurturing physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of one's character, individuals contribute to the fabric of the nation's character.

Furthermore, Vivekananda's emphasis on service, fearlessness, and unity resonates deeply with modern initiatives and movements in India. Programs such as PM Narendra Modi's ambitious Skill India mission, Fit India Movement and the New Education Policy, which emphasise skill development, physical fitness, value-based education, and holistic growth, echo Vivekananda's philosophy of "man-making" and "character-building."

We, as citizens, are part of the organic whole of our nation. By building the character of the citizens, a nation can seek to reach the height of its glory. So, nation making is only through human making.

Vivekananda's teachings transcend borders, as seen in his influence on the youth of the 20th century. His message of "awakening" and "arising" continues to inspire generations, encouraging them to harness their potential for the greater good. There is no dichotomy between what the good of the nation is and what the good of an individual is. Also, the good of the nation cannot be against the good of the world. Swami Vivekananda's spiritual nationalism, grounded in the understanding of India's cultural and spiritual richness, guides India's journey towards becoming a Vishwa Guru (world leader) while upholding the principles of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).

Swami Vivekananda, revered as the pioneer of modern Indian nationalism, introduced the concept of spiritual nationalism that became an integral part of India's struggle for independence. His visionary ideals and philosophies resonated deeply with the Indian masses, igniting a sense of unity and self-sacrifice for the motherland.

Vivekananda's nationalism was not a mere political movement but a profound amalgamation of spirituality and morality. His famous words, "I am an Indian, and every Indian is my brother," captured the essence of his belief in the universal brotherhood of mankind. He recognized the interconnectedness of all individuals and communities, irrespective of their backgrounds, and called for a collective effort towards nation-building.

Born as Narendranath Datta in 1863, Swami Vivekananda's teachings were deeply rooted in Indian traditions, particularly Vedanta and Yoga. His visit to the West not only introduced these ancient philosophies but also highlighted the spiritual fabric that had woven India's cultural heritage for centuries.

Vivekananda's nationalism found its foundation in spiritualism. He envisioned India's resurgence through the revival of its spiritual heritage. He likened each nation's role to a distinct message to deliver and a unique destiny to fulfil within the global harmony of races. His ideology emphasised that true strength comes from overcoming self-inflicted limitations and embracing a sense of selfless service.

The spiritual underpinnings of Vivekananda's nationalism resonated with the youth of his time and continue to inspire generations. He envisioned a society where religion wasn't divisive but a unifying force, nurturing the idea of "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat" – a united and strong India. His call to serve God through service to fellow beings echoed the essence of his teachings.

Vivekananda's nationalism transcended parochialism; it was an inclusive worldview. He believed that nationalism, coupled with universalism, could coexist harmoniously. His teachings emphasized that a nation's progress is intertwined with its spiritual and moral values, not confined by geographical boundaries. India's response during the COVID-19 pandemic, where it extended a helping hand to other nations, exemplifies the enduring spirit of Vasudev Kutumbakam – the world as one family.

Swami Vivekananda's spiritual nationalism laid the foundation for a united India. His vision of a strong, self-reliant nation driven by spirituality and service continues to guide the country towards progress. His teachings underscore the importance of preserving India's spiritual heritage while embracing a global perspective, making his ideology relevant even in the contemporary world.

Swami Vivekananda's wisdom continues to be a guiding beacon for a vibrant and progressive India. His emphasis on channelling one's energies into a purposeful pursuit, coupled with his vision of spiritual-nationalism, serves as a blueprint for the nation's holistic development and its role on the global stage.

(Views expressed in this opinion piece are that of the author.)