National Youth Day is observed every year on 12 January in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, one of the country’s greatest spiritual leaders, philosophers, and youth icons. The day aims to inspire young people to follow his ideals of character-building, knowledge, discipline, and nation-building.
📅 Historical Background
- In 1984, the Government of India declared 12 January as National Youth Day.
- The first official celebration took place on 12 January 1985.
- The decision was based on Swami Vivekananda’s lasting influence on youth empowerment and his contribution to Indian thought and culture.
👤 About Swami Vivekananda
- Born: 12 January 1863, Kolkata
- Original Name: Narendranath Datta
- Key Contribution: Introduced Indian philosophy and Vedanta to the Western world through his iconic speech at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago (1893).
- Mission: Awakening spiritual and social consciousness; service to humanity.
- Legacy Organizations: Ramakrishna Mission and Ramakrishna Math
