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In 1984, the Government of India officially declared National Youth Day, and since then, it has been celebrated to inspire young people with the teachings and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda.
National Youth Day is celebrated annually on Swami Vivekananda’s Birth Anniversary. (Image: Shutterstock)
National Youth Day, or Rashtriya Yuva Diwas, is celebrated annually on January 12 to honour the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, a visionary leader who profoundly influenced modern India. The Government of India officially announced National Youth Day in 1984, and since then, the day has been observed nationwide to inspire the youth with the teachings and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda.
This day also serves as a reminder of his ideals and contributions to the nation, particularly his contributions to empowering the youth of India.
As we observe National Youth Day on Swami Vivekananda’s birth anniversary, let’s know the history and significance of the day and how Rashtriya Yuva Diwas is celebrated across the country.
National Youth Day 2025: Date
National Youth Day is celebrated on January 12 every year to honour the birthday of Swami Vivekananda, one of the greatest spiritual leaders and philosophers.
National Youth Day 2025: History
The decision to celebrate National Youth Day on Swami Vivekananda’s birthday stems from the government’s vision to encourage the youth with his ideas and philosophies.
Eventually, the Indian government decided to celebrate Swami Vivekananda’s birthday as National Youth Day in 1984. They believed that Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy was a guiding force for the youth, a means to create a better future for the country by instilling motivation through his life and teachings.
This day focuses on inspiring, igniting and empowering countless young people in India and around the world.
Swami Vivekananda inspired youth consciousness across India through his impactful lectures. Globally, he gained immense recognition for his iconic speech at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893, famously beginning with the words, “Sisters and Brothers of America.”
National Youth Day 2025: Significance
National Youth Day is more than just a commemoration; it is a call to action for young people to actively participate in shaping the future. In today’s rapidly evolving world, the day underscores the pivotal role of youth in tackling social, economic, and environmental challenges.
- Empowerment: It motivates youth to recognize their potential and take meaningful steps toward personal growth.
- Education: The day highlights education as a cornerstone for self-determination and progress.
- Social Responsibility: Celebrations instill a sense of duty among young individuals to address societal issues.
- Cultural Integration: Events organized on this day promote unity and harmony among diverse groups through shared values.
- Innovation: By encouraging creative thinking, the day fosters entrepreneurship and innovative solutions.
National Youth Day 2025: How is Rashtriya Yuva Diwas Celebrated?
Born on January 12, 1863, Swami Vivekananda is remembered and honoured at various centres of the Ramakrishna Mission, Ramakrishna Math, and their branch centres, all in accordance with Indian cultural traditions.
The celebrations encompass a variety of activities such as mangal aarti, devotional songs, meditation, religious speeches, and sandhya aarti.
Apart from this, organisations including Mission Bhartiyam in Uttar Pradesh conduct events spanning two days for all age groups, such as the Basti Yuvo Mahotsav.
These events consist of a wide range of activities promoting education, lifestyle, art, and trust among youth. Some organisations observe National Youth Day by hosting devotional programs, prayers, meditation sessions, and other activities. To mark the occasion, several clubs also organise blood donation camps.
Meanwhile, the book titled “The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda” is recited in several parts of India to impart Swami Vivekananda’s teachings.
On this day, educational institutes organise parades, recitations, music, songs, conventions, seminars, essay-writing competitions, speeches on Swami Vivekananda, and other events to inspire and motivate their peers.
