UditVani, Jamshedpur: Sona Devi University marked National Youth Day with a dignified, thought-provoking and inspiring celebration of the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda at the Swami Vivekananda Auditorium on its Ghatshila campus.
The programme was organised to awaken self-confidence, moral values, national pride, cultural awareness and a strong sense of duty among the youth.
The programme was gracefully anchored by Kumari Nikita, Assistant Professor in the Department of Sanskrit, whose poised and energetic presentation lent both direction and dignity to the event.
The ceremony began with Vedic chanting, floral tributes and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, creating an atmosphere of spiritual serenity and positive energy.
Dr Sujit Kumar, Head of the Department of Sanskrit, presented a detailed overview of Swami Vivekananda’s life and philosophy, highlighting his inspiring and motivational messages.
He noted that Swami Vivekananda’s life remains a living example of self-confidence, discipline, service and fearless thinking, which continues to guide young minds even today.
Dr Kanchan Sinha, Head of the Department of History, spoke on Swami Vivekananda’s views on education, emphasising that education, according to him, is not merely for employment but for character building, moral development and dedication to the nation—an idea that is even more relevant in the present era.
Adding a cultural dimension to the programme, Krishnendu Dutta, Head of the Department of Mathematics, presented a soulful rendition of Rabindra Sangeet, Swami Vivekananda’s favourite genre, captivating the audience with his melodious and emotive performance.
Dr Shivchand Jha, Head of the Department of Political Science, elaborated on Swami Vivekananda’s vision of cultural nationalism, stating that as India advances in science, technology, space, economy and global diplomacy, his ideas become even more significant.
He stressed that modernity and tradition are not opposites but complementary forces, and urged the youth to work towards a self-reliant, value-driven and culturally proud India.
Dr Dharani Mahato, Assistant Professor in the Department of Bengali, reflected on Swami Vivekananda’s life of struggle, spiritual practice and perseverance, reminding students that unwavering determination in the face of hardship is the true path to success.
Registrar Dr Nit Nayana, in her address, said that Swami Vivekananda’s thoughts continue to inspire young people with positivity, dedication to duty and social responsibility.
She underlined that the mission of the university is not only to provide academic degrees, but to shape enlightened, value-based and nation-oriented citizens.
Vice-Chancellor Professor (Dr) Braj Mohan Pat Pingua described National Youth Day as an occasion for self-reflection, self-development and inner transformation. He remarked that if the youth internalise Swami Vivekananda’s ideals, India will grow not only materially but also morally, culturally and spiritually.
Presiding over the programme, Chancellor Prabhakar Singh spoke on the multifaceted personality and lasting legacy of Swami Vivekananda.
He urged students to draw inspiration from him, set meaningful life goals, become self-reliant and actively contribute to the nation’s progress.
Recalling a historic episode, he narrated how Swami Vivekananda and Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata had once travelled together by sea to the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago.
During their discussions, Swami Vivekananda spoke of India’s—and particularly the Tatanagar region’s—vast mineral wealth and industrial potential, which later inspired Jamsetji Tata to establish Tata Steel there, laying the foundation for the region’s industrial and social development.
This episode, he said, reflects Swami Vivekananda’s visionary role in nation-building.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, bringing to an end a memorable and intellectually enriching celebration. Faculty members, staff and a large number of students attended the event, which infused the campus with renewed energy, confidence, patriotism and cultural pride.
