2026 Swami Vivekananda Jayanti
| Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Jan | Mon | Swami Vivekananda Jayanti | West Bengal |
2027 Swami Vivekananda Jayanti
| Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Jan | Tue | Swami Vivekananda Jayanti | West Bengal |
2028 Swami Vivekananda Jayanti
| Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Jan | Wed | Swami Vivekananda Jayanti | West Bengal |
Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, also known as National Youth Day or Rashtriya Yuva Diwas, is celebrated every year on 12 January to mark the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902), the renowned Indian spiritual leader and philosopher.
The day inspires youth across India with Vivekananda's teachings on self-confidence, service to humanity, and spiritual awakening, observed through cultural programs, seminars, and youth events nationwide.
Swami Vivekananda Jayanti overview
- Swami Vivekananda Jayanti falls on 12 January each year, declared National Youth Day by the Government of India in 1984 to honor Vivekananda's ideals of youth empowerment and national service.
- Celebrated as a public observance across India with schools, colleges, and organizations holding youth-focused events, speeches, and cultural programs reflecting his philosophy.
- Vivekananda gained global fame for his 1893 speech at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago, introducing Vedanta and Yoga to the West and promoting interfaith harmony.
History and significance
- Born Narendranath Datta on 12 January 1863 in Kolkata, Swami Vivekananda became the chief disciple of Sri Ramakrishna and founded the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897 for spiritual and social service.
- In 1984, the Government of India declared 12 January as National Youth Day, recognizing Vivekananda's philosophy as ideal inspiration for Indian youth since celebrations began in 1985.
- His teachings emphasized character-building, service to humanity as worship of God, and awakening India's spiritual strength to achieve national greatness.
Traditions and observance
- Educational institutions organize seminars, essay competitions, youth rallies, and cultural programs featuring Vivekananda's speeches and life story.
- Ramakrishna Mission centers hold special prayers, discourses, and selfless service activities to commemorate his legacy of practical Vedanta.
- Youth groups participate in blood donation camps, tree plantation drives, and community service initiatives reflecting Vivekananda's call to action.
Key facts about Swami Vivekananda Jayanti
- Swami Vivekananda Jayanti date: 12 January every year across India.
- Also called: National Youth Day (Rashtriya Yuva Diwas).
- Significance: Honors Swami Vivekananda's birth (1863) and inspires youth with his ideals of self-reliance and service.
Swami Vivekananda Jayanti FAQs
What is Swami Vivekananda Jayanti?
Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, celebrated on 12 January, marks the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda and serves as National Youth Day to inspire young people with his teachings.
When is Swami Vivekananda Jayanti celebrated?
The observance occurs annually on 12 January, Swami Vivekananda's birthday according to the Gregorian calendar.
Why is 12 January celebrated as National Youth Day?
In 1984, the Government of India declared Vivekananda's birth anniversary as National Youth Day, recognizing his philosophy as perfect inspiration for youth development.
What is the significance of Swami Vivekananda Jayanti?
The day promotes Vivekananda's ideals of self-confidence, selfless service, spiritual strength, and nation-building among India's younger generation.
Who was Swami Vivekananda?
Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902) was a Hindu monk, disciple of Ramakrishna, and founder of Ramakrishna Mission who introduced Vedanta and Yoga to the world.
How is National Youth Day observed?
Celebrations include youth seminars, cultural events, service activities, and Ramakrishna Mission programs across schools, colleges, and communities nationwide.
Is Swami Vivekananda Jayanti a public holiday?
It is widely observed but not a gazetted public holiday; government offices remain open while educational institutions often hold special programs.
Where did Swami Vivekananda deliver his famous speech?
Swami Vivekananda's iconic speech beginning with "Sisters and brothers of America" was delivered at the 1893 Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago.