Arya Ajay Patil

MIT School of Food Technology

“Give me 100 energetic young men and I shall transform India.” Swami Vivekananda didn’t

just see young people as dreamers; he saw them as doers- capable of transforming a nation

struggling under colonial rule into a powerhouse of progress. Today, as we live in the world’s

largest democracy with the youngest population globally, the question is not whether we have

those “100 energetic young men” but whether we have the clarity, purpose, and guidance to

channel their potential. In a world riddled with challenges like unemployment, climate

change, and inequality, the youth remain the most potent force of transformation. As we delve

into Swami Vivekananda’s insights, we realize that his vision is not just relevant but essential

for building a stronger, united India.

Swami Vivekananda’s message to the west was that India possesses an enduring and altruistic

philosophical legacy, one that is crucial for keeping humans connected not only with one

another but also with their environment. While he highlighted the unique aspects of Indian

culture, he was also deeply aware of socio-economic challenges India was facing. This led

him to urge the youth to act and bring about positive change. Rabindranath Tagore once said,

“If you want to know India, read Vivekananda.” Perhaps, to today’s youth, he could have

said: “It is time to read Vivekananda again.” His passion and determination to transform how

we think, relate and act can serve as an inspiration for those who need that extra spark to set

things right.
Raised in the intellectual atmosphere of late 19th century Calcutta and influenced by the

simplicity of Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Vivekananda focused on social uplift. He was

deeply concerned about the poverty in rural India and used his dynamic energy to awaken the

youth. He advocated for physical exercise to build strength and boosting morale. He said: “It

would be better to play football than read Gita…” and this statement highlighted his vision

for the youth- strong, fearless, and independent. It was a call to action, urging them to engage

in karma rather than passivity and inaction. His concept of “Daridra Narayana”, or service to

the poor and needy, emphasized that true spirituality is reflected in selfless service to

humanity and by uplifting those in need without any personal gain.

Today, India is home to the largest population of youth in the world, with over 65% of it’s

citizens below the age of 35. This demographic dividend offers a golden opportunity for

nation-building, provided it is harnesses effectively. On one side, we see young climate

activists, youth-led movements for social justice, gender equality, and environmental reforms,

young entrepreneurs leading start-ups, initiatives like “Make in India” and “Digital India”

empowering youth with education and technology. On the other hand, rising issues such as

substance abuse, cybercrime, unemployment, distractions and mental struggles due to societal

pressures. This duality shows that while the youth have unparalleled potential, their direction

determines whether they build or destroy.

“Education is the manifestation of the perfection already in man.” Yet, the Indian education

system often prioritizes rote learning over creativity, critical thinking, and ethical values. The

National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to address this, aligning with Vivekananda’s

vision of holistic education. By integrating meditation, yoga, vocational skills, moral

education, and technology, we can prepare the youth to meet the demands of the 21st century.
Swami Vivekananda’s words, “My name should not be made prominent; it is my ideas that I

want to be realized” deeply inspired Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, reflecting the selflessness and

purpose of true leadership. It is rightly said that, “The swami’s mission was both national and

international.” Alongside his college education, Swami Vivekananda delved into Hindu

scriptures and studied the works of prominent Western philosophers, including Immanuel

Kant, John Stuart Mill, Charles Darwin, and Herbert Spencer. His admiration for Herbert

Spencer was so profound that he translated Spencer’s book, Education: Intellectual, Moral

and Physical into Bengali.

“Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached,” this statement continues to resonate as a

clarion call for the youth of India. It is not without reason that Vivekananda’s birthday is

observed as National Youth Day. ‘Be and Make’ -this sums up Vivekananda’s philosophy. A

true change begins within. Inner positivity is essential for the outer self to reflect its true

potential. He called this ‘spiritual civilization,’ believing that greatness cannot arise from

negativity. Inner transformation is the key to external success. Swami Vivekananda’s message

to the youth remains a guiding light, inspiring them to awaken their inner strength and work

towards building a united, progressive India through self-belief, service, and purpose-driven

action.

References:

1. https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/national-youth-day-2024-swami-

vivekananda-quotes-wishes-whatsapp-messages-and-greetings/3362808/

2. "Swami Vivekananda's message of social service for the Youth of India",

https://rbalu.wordpress.com/2011/02/12/swami-vivekanandas-message-of-social-

service-for-the-youth-of-india/
3. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/religion/festivals/swami-vivekananda-jayanti-

2025-know-date-and-significance/articleshow/117162567.cms

4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swami_Vivekananda

5. https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/swami-vivekananda-quotes-

1681988539-1