2016-07-04 Mon

On 4th July in 1902 Swami Vivekananda attained “mahasamadhi”.

Swami Vivekananda was an Indian Hindu monk and one of the chief disciples of Ramakrishna Paramahansa. He was a key figure in introducing the Indian philosophies of Vedanta and yoga to the western world. He also was a major force in reviving the Hinduism and creating awareness among the Hindus and bringing Hinduism to a status of a major world religion. He also contributed to the concept of nationalism in colonial India. A devout Nationalist, he believed that a country's future depends on its people, and his teachings focused on human development.

On 4th July 1902, after living a regular day filled with his regular mediation, classes and discussions he passed away around 9 o’clock in the night while meditating. Vivekananda fulfilled his prophecy that he would not live forty years and died aged 39.

In honour of such a legendary personality India Post and the India Government Mint issued a set of commemorative stamps (INR 2, INR 5) and coins (INR 150, INR 5) in 2013 to celebrate the 150th Birth Anniversary. India Post has also released a new definitive stamp series depicting Swami Vivekananda of INR 5.

Shri Lanka and Malaysia too have issued commemorative stamps of denominations LKR 25 and 30 Sen respectively to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.