164th National Youth Day (Swami Vivekananda Jayanti) Celebration—12th January 2026
- The 164th National Youth Day, commemorating the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, was solemnly and joyfully celebrated on 12 January 2026 at the Vivekananda Illam campus.
- The day commenced with a marathon titled “Run Young India”, in which 25 enthusiastic youngsters participated and completed a 5-kilometre run, symbolizing the spirit of strength, determination, and youthfulness inspired by Swami Vivekananda.
- At 7:15 a.m., sadhus and brahmacharis from Ramakrishna Math and nearby centres assembled for a reverential ārati to Swami Vivekananda’s statue. This was followed by garlanding of the statue and flower offerings in the room where Swamiji stayed for nine days. The atmosphere was filled with devotion through the chanting of Vedic mantras and bhajans.
- After breakfast, at 9:30 a.m., a special programme was organized by the Vivekananda Youth Forum (VYF). The programme began with a video presentation showcasing the activities undertaken by VYF over the past year. These included:
- Distribution of fruits to patients in government hospitals
- Conducting Vivekananda exhibitions in schools
- Organising book stalls
- Junior Youth Forums in schools
- Summer camps and other youth-oriented initiatives
- New members of VYF shared their reflections on Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, and Raja Yoga, explaining Swami Vivekananda’s interpretation of these paths and how they have implemented these ideals in their own lives. The speakers highlighted the relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s teachings in the present times and their application across various fields for the growth of the nation.
- Senior VYF members shared their long-standing experiences in an interview format, which deeply inspired the younger generation.
- Swami Satyajnanananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Chennai, delivered his benediction, emphasizing how individuals with strong determination have achieved remarkable results with minimal support and have gone on to benefit lakhs of people, drawing inspiration from Swami Vivekananda’s life and message.
- Br. Vanishachaitanya, Director, VCC, presented a PowerPoint presentation explaining the layers of the mind, how thoughts influence actions, and how these impact life situations, along with practical solutions. The session concluded with an engaging question-and-answer interaction.
- Coffee and lunch prasadam were offered to all participants. Around 60 devotees and youth members took part in the programme.
- In the evening, a grand Swami Vivekananda Ratha Procession was conducted. The procession covered approximately 2,500 homes, passing through:
- Nadu Kuppam
- Ayodhya Kuppam
- Matang Kuppam
- Shivaji Nagar
- During the procession, sweet prasadam, Ramakrishna Vijayam magazine, Swamiji’s quotes flyers, and groundnut burfi were distributed. Kolam competitions were conducted at three locations, and prizes were awarded.
- Additionally, on 11 January, games competitions were organized at Ayodhya Nagar, with prizes given to the winners.
- The “Kailaya Vandhyam” was beautifully performed by the boys of Ramakrishna Mission Students’ Home, accompanying the Vivekananda Ratha throughout the procession.
- The procession concluded at 8:00 p.m., with the Ratha returning to Vivekanandar Illam, marking a spiritually uplifting and inspiring conclusion to the celebrations.