The Society for Enlightenment and Transformation (SEAT), a component of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNSRC) hosted a month-long exhibition dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher and author.
Jointly organized by the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) the exhibition commemorates Vivekananda’s role in fostering cross-cultural dialogue and promoting the ideals of human unity and service and seeks to underscore the contemporary relevance of Vivekananda's teachings.
Swami Sarvarpriyananda, resident minister of the New York Vedanta Society, inaugurated the event and emphasized Vivekananda’s lasting influence on East-West relations. “He built a bridge between the East and the West when he traveled to the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893. That bridge remains strong and vibrant today,” he remarked.
India’s Consul General in New York, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, highlighted the enduring significance of Vivekananda's philosophy. “His message of the oneness of humanity, deeply rooted in ancient Hindu wisdom, holds particular significance here at the UN,” Pradhan noted.
UNSRC President Peter Dawkins asserted, “Through this exhibition, we aim to highlight Vivekananda’s relevance to the core values and purposes of the UN.”
The exhibition also shed light on Vivekananda’s contributions to modern India, notably his role in inspiring the establishment of the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru. His visionary outlook extended to interactions with individuals such as scientist Nikola Tesla, reflecting his advocacy for the integration of science and spirituality.
Ganesh Ramakrishnan, an outreach coordinator for HSS, highlighted Vivekananda’s timeless call for seva (selfless service), which continues to resonate with younger generations.
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