Lucknow: The centenary celebrations of the Ramakrishna Mission Sevashram at Nirala Nagar were marked with spiritual fervour and intellectual discourse, as a large-scale youth conference was organised on Sunday. More than 400 registered youths from neighbouring districts participated in the day-long programme, which focused on the teachings and ideals of Swami Vivekananda.
The celebrations began in the morning with a silent prayer led by Swami Muktinathananda Maharaj, followed by Vedic chants recited by Swami Ishtakripananda. A collective devotional song session was also held under his guidance, setting a solemn and inspiring tone for the event.
The formal programme commenced at 10:30 am in the monastery auditorium with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by dignitaries. Vedic chanting by the monks and an invocation song presented by noted Lucknow-based singer Dr Biju Bhagwati added to the spiritual atmosphere. Musical accompaniments included tabla recital by Sumit Mallik, while group chanting of Swadesh Mantra and Amrit Mantra was led by Samar Nath Nigam of the Vivekananda Youth Association.
Addressing the youth on the theme “Be and Make”, Swami Bodhamayananda, President of Ramakrishna Math, Hyderabad, described Swami Vivekananda as one of India’s most influential spiritual leaders. He explained that the philosophy of “Be and Make” emphasises self-awareness, self-discipline and inner strength, followed by selfless action for the welfare of society. According to him, personal development and social contribution must go hand in hand.
Personality development expert Dr Vivek Modi from Hyderabad spoke on how today’s youth can align their lives with Swami Vivekananda’s vision of a rejuvenated India. He outlined five key principles for success—self-discipline, fearlessness, service to humanity, pursuit of knowledge, and positive thinking—urging young people to adopt these values in daily life.
Ramakrishna Mission Sevashram Secretary Swami Muktinathananda Maharaj encouraged the youth to adopt one noble idea and dedicate their entire life to it with focus and perseverance, stating that such dedication is the path to true success and spiritual greatness.
The programme also featured interactive sessions, a film screening on Swami Vivekananda, and a question-and-answer segment that allowed youths to engage directly with the speakers. In another address, Swami Bodhamayananda spoke on “Swami Vivekananda’s Expectations from Youth”, highlighting qualities such as self-belief, courage, education, ethical living, social service and spirituality.
In his concluding address, Swami Muktinathananda Maharaj recalled Swami Vivekananda’s historic 1893 Chicago address and his message of universal brotherhood, self-confidence and service to humanity. He urged the youth to draw inspiration from Vivekananda’s call: “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached.”
The event concluded with a group devotional song on Swami Vivekananda led by Swami Vishwadevananda, followed by refreshments at the eastern lawn of the temple. The programme was conducted by Hari Om, Youth Coordinator of the Ramakrishna–Vivekananda Bhav Prachar Parishad, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, who welcomed the dignitaries and thanked the organisers for hosting the regional youth conference.
