Centenary of Swami Vivekananda’s Chicago Address
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Centenary Series |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | September 11, 1993 |
| Denomination | Rs. 2 |
| Quantity | 600000 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1397 Stamp Number IN 1454 Yvert et Tellier IN 1195 Stanley Gibbons IN 1547 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Buildings | Famous people | Men | |
Table of Contents
Swami Vivekananda’s Historic Address at the World’s Parliament of Religions
Introduction and Opening Address
- Historic Moment: On September 11, 1893, Swami Vivekananda began his address at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago with the words: “Sisters and Brothers of America, It fills my heart with joy unspeakable to rise in response to the warm and cordial welcome which you have given us. I thank you in the name of the most ancient order of monks in the world.”
- Stirring Conclusion: He concluded with a powerful call for unity and tolerance: “and I fervently hope that the bell that tolled this morning in honour of this Convention may be the death-knell of all fanaticism, of all persecutions with the sword or with the pen, and of all uncharitable feelings between persons wending their way to the same goal.”
Impact and Recognition
- Acclaim: The New York Herald lauded Vivekananda as “undoubtedly the greatest figure in the Parliament of Religions.” His profound impact was evident as his life-size portraits were displayed in Chicago, with passers-by bowing in reverence.
- Fundamentals of Religion: Vivekananda emphasized three core aspects of religion in his address:
- Direct communication with the Divine.
- The limitations of the human mind in understanding the Divine.
- An attitude of compassion.
Philosophical Contributions
- Indian Spiritualism: He affirmed that Indian spiritualism does not recognize any religion that does not advocate service to humanity, highlighting that religion fosters the divine potential within all individuals. This spiritual ethos is reflected in the songs of Indian devotees, the philosophies of seers, and the prayers of common people throughout the ages.
Global and National Reawakening
- Recognition in the West and India: Swami Vivekananda’s introduction of Indian spiritualism to the West ironically helped India to recognize the greatness of her own vibrant monk, who was then not widely known in his own country. His address ignited a reawakening in India, prompting a rediscovery of the nation’s spiritual foundations and a reaffirmation of ancient Indian reverence for asceticism and monasticism infused with humanitarian zeal and missionary service.
Tributes and Legacy
- Annie Besant and Sri Aurobindo: Annie Besant described Vivekananda at Chicago as “A striking figure, clad in yellow and orange, shining like the Sun of India.” Sri Aurobindo remarked on Vivekananda’s journey, stating, “The going forth of Vivekananda was the first visible sign to the world that India was awake, not only to survive but to conquer.”
Commemoration
- Centenary Stamp: To honor the centenary of Swami Vivekananda’s historic address, the Department of Posts issued a commemorative postage stamp depicting Vivekananda against the background of the Art Institute building in Chicago, where the speech was delivered. The first day cover features Vivekananda in meditation and includes a famous line from his address.
This commemorative stamp and cover serve as a tribute to Swami Vivekananda’s enduring legacy and his profound impact on both Indian and global spiritual consciousness.