Swami Vivekananda (born January 12th, 1863) is one of the most famous and influential spiritual leaders that India has ever seen. He was a great philosopher of Vedanta(" The Ultimate Knowledge ") and the first known Hindu to come to the West, where he introduced Hinduism,Yoga and Vedanta at the World's parliament of Religions. He was the beloved disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Parmahansa.
Swami Vivekanada wanted to do something for the upliftment of Indian people. He desired to learn more of the practility of Vedanta. He wandered all over from north to west, from west to southern tip of India, learning the prevalent culture and condition of India. He finally reached Kanyakumari, on 24th December 1892. There, he swam across the sea and started meditating on a lone rock. He meditated for three days about the past, present and future of India. The thought of the poverty of the masses in his country made him miserable. He decided that unless casteism was rooted out, there could be no salvation for his countrymen. The rock later became famous as the " Vivekananda Memorial " at Kanyakumari.
In 1893, Swami Vivekananda went to Chicago to represent India at the Worlds Parliament of Religions. There he delivered his powerful speech which made the learned audience bow their heads in reverence.
In his speech he declared that no religion is superior and none is inferior. All the delegates praised his speech and he instantly became popular in America.
Although Swamiji is no longer with us, his words live. He sacrificed the worldly pleasures and dedicated his life to the country and yearned for the progress of his countrymen. His message has continued to inspire millions.
As a mark of honor, the National Youth Day in India is held on his birthday on Januray 12th.