The morning of January 12 witnessed the enthusiastic celebration of Swami Vivekananda’s 161st birth anniversary at various spots in the city. Seen in picture (top) are followers who gathered in front of Ramakrishna Mission, Golpark to pay their tribute to the venerated Indian monk and philosopher. Born on January 12, 1863, and named Narendranath Datta, Swami Vivekananda is celebrated as an icon of youth empowerment, his progressive views on religion and spirituality and unconditional love for and service to the masses. Swami Vivekananda is also known as one of the chief disciples of Sri Ramakrishna. (Bottom) Students of Ramakrishna Sarada Mission observed the day with a procession and placards with Swami Vivekananda’s teachings
Soumyajit Dey/My Kolkata(Top) Swami Vivekananda’s statue at his ancestral home in north Kolkata decorated with flowers and garlands. (Bottom) School students take part in a procession as part of the celebrations
Suvendu Das/My KolkataMinister Shashi Panja, along with monks, flags off a procession in front of Vivekananda’s ancestral home
Suvendu Das/My KolkataA statue of Swami Vivekananda was inaugurated near Golpark on Thursday morning
Soumyajit Dey/My Kolkata