By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Governor RS Mooshahary has said the youth should emulate the ideals of Swami Vivekananda whose love for the country, humanism and his preaching should inspire the younger generation.
Inaugurating a function organized on the occasion of National Youth Day at Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Cultural Centre (RKMVCC) on Thursday, Mooshahary said, “Swami Vivekananda is an icon of the youth because his words were mostly for the youth and everything he did in his life was at a young age, as he lived and died young.”
Thursday’s prorgramme also marked the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, who propagated the Indian philosophy across the world.
Mooshahary said Swamiji believed in patriotism and humanism through spiritualism.
The Governor advised the packed auditorium with few maxims of Swamiji. While explaining Swamiji’s theory on religion, selfishness and unselfishness, Mooshahary recalled his words and said, “Secret of religion lies not in theory but in practice whereas unselfishness is god and selfishness is evil.” He also informed the youth that Swamiji fought against discrimination in the name of caste, creed, religion and language.
On the evil effects of corruption Mooshahary said that it is not only confined to the political circle and it can be removed by a joint effort of all people and inspiration of Swami Vivekananda. “Swamiji’s preaching on self confidence is the best source of inspiration for the youths of today,” he said.
Abhishek Bhagatia, Additional Deputy Commissioner & District Planning Officer, East Khasi Hills spoke about the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda and informed that the government is creating various avenues of jobs. “What RKM is doing with zeal for the youths of today is indeed commendable and as far as possible I will help them,” said Bhagatia.
Swami Sumanasananda Maharaj, Secretary, RKM, Sohra spoke about how world and Indian leaders were inspired by the life and preaching of Swami Vivekananda and said what the world leaders remarked about him.
Swami Achyutesha-nandaji Maharaj, Secretary, RKM, Shillong urged the youth to take inspiration from his life and teachings.
A cultural programme was also organized. A Khasi patriotic song was presented by Lyngiong Village Group and cultural dance by Seng Samla Seng Khasi, Mawlai.
A skit “True Friend” was presented by Daniel and Group, Bhangra Dance by Would be Youth, a speech of Swami Vivekananda on India was imitated by a student of RKM Student’s Home etc The youth also took an oath on the ideals of Swamiji’s “Swadesh Mantra” administered by the Governor himself.
Ten students were also given scholarship of Rs2500 each sponsored by RKM, (Belur Math). A Youth Convention will be held on March 3 at RKMVCC.