Vivekananda's Vision: India at 2047 Independence Centenary

Vivekananda's Vision: India at 2047 Independence Centenary

From mesmerizing landscapes to a rich heritage, from a unique culture and diverse history to joyful festivals, India is a beautiful blend of traditions, languages, and people. Being a multi-cultural, multi-lingual, and multi-religious society, India, often called the golden sparrow, has always believed in the principle of unity in diversity. Inspired by its iconic heroes, the nation continues to spread the message of peace and oneness while taking pride in its traditions and deep knowledge of the Vedas and Upanishads.

India is currently celebrating seventy-five years of independence through Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, a tribute to its glorious history, people, culture, and achievements.

"Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached."

These words were spoken by a great personality whose wisdom and teachings were far ahead of his time. His philosophy has become a guiding force in understanding India and its progress worldwide. He was none other than Swami Vivekananda.

A man of action and a changemaker, Swami Vivekananda rose above the barriers of race, religion, and nationality to emerge as a global spiritual leader. His teachings continue to inspire people even today. Through his speech at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago more than a century ago, he introduced India’s spiritual and philosophical wisdom to the world, emphasizing the ideals of universal brotherhood.

When India was under British rule and struggling with oppression and poverty, Swami Vivekananda envisioned a nation that would rise again as a world leader. More than one hundred and twenty-five years ago, he declared that while the current era belonged to the West, the twenty-first century would belong to India. His words served as a wake-up call to the youth, encouraging them to dedicate their efforts to India’s spiritual and national revival. In honor of his contributions, January 12 is observed as National Youth Day to inspire young minds to work towards a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous India.

In line with Swamiji’s vision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) campaign on May 12, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative aims to strengthen India’s economy and reduce dependence on foreign nations while fostering global cooperation and harmony. The path to self-reliance lies in acknowledging India’s rich history, learning from others while preserving our identity, and adapting ideas in our unique way rather than blindly imitating others.

Swami Vivekananda strongly believed that education is the key to national progress. He saw it as a means of character building, personality development, and self-sufficiency rather than just a tool for employment. He envisioned an India where every individual has access to education as a fundamental right, where literacy rates are among the highest in the world, and where the country emerges as a global hub for higher education and research. Various government initiatives such as "Each One, Teach One," Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, and "Padhega India, Tabhi Toh Badhega India" are taking India closer to this dream.

Swami Vivekananda’s idea of Hindutva and Indian culture was inclusive and beyond caste, creed, and color. He believed that true spirituality teaches that God resides in every being and that no one should be discriminated against or harmed. India, with its principles of non-violence and karma, can serve as a guiding force for the world. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru described him as one of the great founders of the modern national movement of India.

Swami Vivekananda placed immense faith in the power of youth. He saw them as thinkers, leaders, and change-makers capable of shaping the future of the nation. He believed that young people, with the right values and skills, could drive social and economic progress, challenge existing barriers, and become responsible citizens and global leaders. He often spoke about Vyaktitva Vikas (Personality Development) and urged young people to develop mental strength, courage, and determination. He famously said that the youth should have muscles of iron and nerves of steel, with a mind of the same material.

Swami Vivekananda envisioned India as a spiritual torchbearer for humanity. He believed that India’s strength lay in its deep-rooted spiritual traditions, which could guide the world in science, social justice, and governance. His association with Ramakrishna Paramhansa, one of the greatest spiritual leaders of the nineteenth century, helped shape his philosophy. Today, his teachings continue to inspire people across the world.

A strong nation is built on the foundation of good health. Swamiji emphasized the importance of physical fitness, a healthy lifestyle, and a balanced diet. He believed that yoga and meditation could help individuals achieve excellence in both body and mind. India must work towards promoting yoga, Ayurveda, and traditional healing practices, ensuring that medical facilities are accessible to all, and encouraging organ donation as a noble act.

Swami Vivekananda firmly believed that a nation’s progress depends on the empowerment of its women. He dreamt of an India where women enjoy equal opportunities and rights, where there is no discrimination in employment based on gender, and where women feel safe and secure in society.

Swamiji envisioned an honest and transparent governance system where citizens do not have to pay bribes for basic rights, where corrupt officials are held accountable, and where the judicial system ensures speedy resolution of cases. A corruption-free India requires strong leadership, responsible governance, and active public participation.

India must work towards ensuring job opportunities for deserving candidates, providing employment to all sections of society, and eradicating child labor and poverty. Swami Vivekananda was deeply concerned about unemployment and poverty. He advocated for economic policies that support self-employment, entrepreneurship, and financial independence.

Swami Vivekananda envisioned an economically self-sufficient India where hunger and malnutrition are eradicated, resources are utilized effectively, and no one dies due to poverty or lack of basic needs. His dream of a prosperous India aligns with the nation's efforts toward sustainable economic growth and development.

As we move towards the hundredth year of India’s independence in 2047, it is essential to embrace Swami Vivekananda’s vision. The choices we make today will determine the future of our nation. With skilled manpower, abundant resources, and proper planning, India can emerge as a global leader. His inspiring words continue to serve as a guiding light: "Move forward, step by step, towards a glorious future." Let us work together to build a clean, healthy, strong, and prosperous India.

The article "Vivekananda's Vision: India at 2047 Independence Centenary " has been chosen among the top articles in The Trailblazers 2025, a national-level article writing competition organised by Youthisthan Foundation to celebrate National Youth Day on the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.