Swami Vivekananda's teachings more relevant now: Tarun Gogoi

GUWAHATI: Swami Vivekananda's teachings have become more relevant at a time when divisive forces are out to work out their agenda, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has said.

Unveiling a life-size statue of the seer, Gogoi said yesterday, "Swamiji stood against all forms of oppression and subjugation and the best way to pay tribute to him is to fight against the forces out to divide in the name of religion and language."

Gogoi said, "Vivekananda preaches the philosophy of universal brotherhood and selfless service to people irrespective of caste, creed and religion. How can we forge ahead if seeds of discord are sown in the name of religion and language."

"By installing Swami Vivekananda's statue, we want to remind all about his ideals and philosophy. The statue will inspire and motivate us to work for the betterment of society and to work for humanity as a whole which is the core essence of Swami Vivekananda's teachings," he said.

Stating that the state government would come up with an institute named after Swami Vivekananda, the Chief Minister said Vivekananda was a man of wisdom and knowledge arousing spiritual awakening.

Gogoi said Vivekananda believed in the power of the youth and he felt deeply that the youth power can transform the country. "We have a strong youth power in our country and if we channelise their unbounded energies, no one can stop us from emerging stronger than ever before," he said.

The statue of Swami Vivekananda was sculpted by artist Biren Singha at a cost of Rs 15 lakh, official sources said.