Vivekananda was born 162 years ago in Kolkata, India. Often referred to as “America’s first guru,” Vivekananda whose birth name was Narendra Nath Dutta, founded the Vedanta Society of New York in 1894, one year after landing in the U.S. It became the very first ashram of its kind outside of India.

Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary is celebrated every year on January 12. It is observed in India as National Youth Day. Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/ Rediff.com Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/ Rediff.com

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath applauded Swami Vivekananda for promoting Sanatan Vedic culture globally during colonial times. Highlighting his influence on India's freedom, he unveiled Vivekananda's statue and discussed the Swami Vivekananda Youth Empowerment Scheme.

Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached,' Swami Vivekananda's teachings continue to inspire millions across the globe. Read on to know more about his vision for empowering the nation’s youth through education,