Swami Vivekananda (The Monk and the Reformer)

One of the most renowned and revered Hindu monks and spiritual teachers, Swami Vivekananda lived in 19th century AD. He was known for his teachings which focused on the Indian Homeland. Apart from being a scholarly writer and teacher, he was also an eloquent speaker. Mahatma Gandhi is known to have admitted that his love for India became a thousand fold when he read Vivekananda's works. Such was the contribution of this famous disciple of Shri Ramakrishna.

His contribution to modernising Indian culture was tremendous and he was the first Indian ambassador who introduced Western culture to Indians. His aim was to create a modern India, exclusive of social hierarchies and divisive rituals. Vivekananda believed that the youth of India must take a brave step and contribute towards building a modern society free of all prevailing evils. This is one of the main reasons why his birthday is celebrated as the National Youth Day.

Swami Vivekananda not only inspired Indians but also lit the lamp of enlightenment abroad. Although he lived a short life, Swami touched the hearts and minds of people even after his demise. Swami Vivekananda: What Swami Vivekananda Did, What Swami Vivekananda Said - The Monk and The Reformer is a compilation of his words and work that try to capture the main principles that he followed in his life.