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Vivekananda: His Call to the Nation
In today's India the scene that presents itself before any impartial observer is a welter of conflicting ideologies amidst drift and restlessness. In such a situation the youth of the country are restive. They seek an answer. Swami Vivekananda's words touching upon every facet of India's national life provide answers to questions that agitate both the individual and society.
112 pages, Paperback
First published January 11, 1969
22 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
About the author
Vivekananda
1,667 books1,585 followers"Arise Awake and Stop not til the goal is reached"
Vivekananda left a body of philosophical works (see Vivekananda's complete works). His books (compiled from lectures given around the world) on the four Yogas (Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga) are very influential and still seen as fundamental texts for anyone interested in the Hindu practice of Yoga. His letters are of great literary and spiritual value. He was also considered a very good singer and a poet.By the time of his death, He had composed many songs including his favorite Kali the Mother. He used humor for his teachings and was also an excellent cook. His language is very free flowing. His own Bengali writings stand testimony to the fact that he believed that words - spoken or written - should be for making things easier to understand rather than show off the speaker or writer's knowledge.
Swami Vivekananda [ স্বামী বিবেকানন্দ ] (1863 – 1902), born Narendranath Datta, was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author, religious teacher, and the chief disciple of the Indian mystic Ramakrishna. He was a key figure in the introduction of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, and bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion.
Born in Calcutta, Bengal Presidency, British India (present-day Kolkata, West Bengal, India)
Vivekananda left a body of philosophical works (see Vivekananda's complete works). His books (compiled from lectures given around the world) on the four Yogas (Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga) are very influential and still seen as fundamental texts for anyone interested in the Hindu practice of Yoga. His letters are of great literary and spiritual value. He was also considered a very good singer and a poet.By the time of his death, He had composed many songs including his favorite Kali the Mother. He used humor for his teachings and was also an excellent cook. His language is very free flowing. His own Bengali writings stand testimony to the fact that he believed that words - spoken or written - should be for making things easier to understand rather than show off the speaker or writer's knowledge.
Swami Vivekananda [ স্বামী বিবেকানন্দ ] (1863 – 1902), born Narendranath Datta, was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author, religious teacher, and the chief disciple of the Indian mystic Ramakrishna. He was a key figure in the introduction of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, and bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion.
Born in Calcutta, Bengal Presidency, British India (present-day Kolkata, West Bengal, India)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
July 8, 2020
I have always known Swami Vivekananda as one of the greatest monks and was the founder of the famous movement, Ramakrishna Mission. He is widely known all over the globe, but I didn't know anything in detail. After reading this book, I see him as my icon.
The first part of the book sketches down about his life. The second part is about his teachings, all about his call to the nation. The quotes are so impactful, maybe just reading one quote might also lighten your day and make you profoundly motivated.
few of my favorites are:
1: "Ours not to reason why, ours but to do and die."
2: “If you really want to judge the character of a man, look not at his great performances. Watch a man do his most common actions.”
3: "This is the gist of all worship: to be pure and to do good to others. He who sees Shiva in the poor, in the weak, and in the diseased, really worships Shiva. And if he sees Shiva only in the image, his worship is but preliminary. He who has served and helped one poor man seeing Shiva in him, without thinking of his caste or creed or race or anything, with him Shiva is more pleased than with the man who sees Him only in temples."
The first part of the book sketches down about his life. The second part is about his teachings, all about his call to the nation. The quotes are so impactful, maybe just reading one quote might also lighten your day and make you profoundly motivated.
few of my favorites are:
1: "Ours not to reason why, ours but to do and die."
2: “If you really want to judge the character of a man, look not at his great performances. Watch a man do his most common actions.”
3: "This is the gist of all worship: to be pure and to do good to others. He who sees Shiva in the poor, in the weak, and in the diseased, really worships Shiva. And if he sees Shiva only in the image, his worship is but preliminary. He who has served and helped one poor man seeing Shiva in him, without thinking of his caste or creed or race or anything, with him Shiva is more pleased than with the man who sees Him only in temples."
March 13, 2017
This is a book that is meant to inspire the nation and serve the downtrodden with a revitalized vigor and energy. Vivekananda makes a call to the nation to come up and help the nation grow. He says that weakness and grief are meant to seize and the nation should help with the process of national revitalization. His call is selfless, courageous, pious and meant to serve humanity at large. Great to read this book.
December 6, 2017
Some books are sacred. They are not religious but pious.
It has a spiritual awakening.
These are my psalms!
It has a spiritual awakening.
These are my psalms!
November 23, 2021
It's a very nice short book containing excerpts of Swami Vivekananda. I picked this short book, so I could complete reading 50 books this year. But I totally loved this book. There's not much philosophy or complicated concepts. This book is for everyone who wants some inspiration in life. There's a lot of positive talk and noble words of Swamiji.
October 11, 2021
Best book you'll ever read. Swami Vivekanand ji was so adored, respected and loved for a reason. His heart, his mind and his very being was empowering and enlightening. Still doing that through his words and books.
Read this book. And others, whatever you can find. ❤️ Thank you, Master! ❤️🙏
Read this book. And others, whatever you can find. ❤️ Thank you, Master! ❤️🙏
October 18, 2016
Great book......everyone must read this book.
August 10, 2020
"To be good and do good that is the whole of religion"
These are the words that every one should read. Each sayings are positive and pioneering. Though simple but is clear and elegant.
These are the words that every one should read. Each sayings are positive and pioneering. Though simple but is clear and elegant.
January 5, 2021
Truly exceptional.. a wonderful collection of sayings from Swami. Truly motivates you in your life.
March 6, 2022
Such a great scholar, indeed! Unbelievably advanced and practical mindset for his time.
Though the book itself seems to portray a highly summarised version of his lifetime - would love to read more.
Though the book itself seems to portray a highly summarised version of his lifetime - would love to read more.
August 25, 2020
Would've given it a 4.5 out of 5, but still, it's a solid 4.
Although the book is fairly very short, this select compilation of Vivekananda's larger volume of works is perfect enough to get his message across in a very neat way. The book is prefaced by the brief sketch of his life, which was interesting to read. The book actually begins after that and I would describe it as having two parts: One where he talks about faith, strength, power, destiny, education, society & god for man in general. The second part is where he relates it all with the people of his nation. And although I'm not an Indian myself, it wasn't that I couldn't relate. But for me, the first part was absolutely an interesting read. It had so many great quotes that it just made me more gravitate towards those profound words. Honestly, almost every line was like a perfect quote.
A very good book indeed.
Although the book is fairly very short, this select compilation of Vivekananda's larger volume of works is perfect enough to get his message across in a very neat way. The book is prefaced by the brief sketch of his life, which was interesting to read. The book actually begins after that and I would describe it as having two parts: One where he talks about faith, strength, power, destiny, education, society & god for man in general. The second part is where he relates it all with the people of his nation. And although I'm not an Indian myself, it wasn't that I couldn't relate. But for me, the first part was absolutely an interesting read. It had so many great quotes that it just made me more gravitate towards those profound words. Honestly, almost every line was like a perfect quote.
A very good book indeed.
December 19, 2016
The book begins with a story on Vivekananda's life. The life of Swami is quite unrealistic and superstitious.
It goes on tracing some of the best ideas and concepts of Vivekananda that he went on preaching throughout his life. There are more ideals and less practicality. It ends on a note that what we have heard is now to be converted into practicality but his own life is devoid of the same practice. The ideals and concepts are good, influencing but the approaches are quite vague. There are concepts but the practical examples are of course missing.
It goes on tracing some of the best ideas and concepts of Vivekananda that he went on preaching throughout his life. There are more ideals and less practicality. It ends on a note that what we have heard is now to be converted into practicality but his own life is devoid of the same practice. The ideals and concepts are good, influencing but the approaches are quite vague. There are concepts but the practical examples are of course missing.
November 6, 2019
A great book, by one of the most spiritual leaders India has ever had..
Must read. A short book
Must read. A short book
April 11, 2020
I love this book.Solve lot of question about what is meaning of life?
i must recommend every one to read this book.
Thanks.
i must recommend every one to read this book.
Thanks.
June 24, 2021
This book has a compilation of Vivekananda's sayings and his personal journey of life. Whenever in doubt or feeling lack of goals, this book can be read to find the right motivation to live a life.
January 19, 2023
Vivekananda: His Call to the Nation by Swami Vivekananda is a powerful and thought-provoking book that delves into the life and teachings of one of India's most influential spiritual leaders. The book is a collection of speeches and writings by Swami Vivekananda and offers an in-depth look at his philosophy and the impact he had on the nation!
One of the most striking things about this book is the way it captures the essence of Swami Vivekananda's teachings. The author's writing is clear and concise, and he does an excellent job of conveying the message of the great spiritual leader. The book is filled with wisdom and insights that are as relevant today as they were when the speeches were first delivered.
The book also provides a glimpse into the life and times of Swami Vivekananda. The reader is able to understand the social and political context in which he lived and how his teachings were influenced by the events of his time. The author does an excellent job of painting a picture of the historical context and making it relatable to the modern reader.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is the way it highlights the universality of Swami Vivekananda's teachings. The author emphasizes that the spiritual leader's message is not limited to any particular religious or cultural group, but is applicable to all people, regardless of their background. This is a powerful message that resonates with readers of all backgrounds and is a reminder of the importance of tolerance and understanding in today's world.
The book is also an excellent resource for those who are interested in learning more about Indian philosophy and spirituality. The author provides a comprehensive overview of the main ideas and concepts of Indian spiritual thought and how they are related to the teachings of Swami Vivekananda.
In conclusion, Vivekananda: His Call to the Nation by Swami Vivekananda is a must-read for anyone interested in the life and teachings of one of India's most influential spiritual leaders. The book is filled with wisdom and insights that are as relevant today as they were when the speeches were first delivered. The author does an excellent job of capturing the essence of Swami Vivekananda's teachings and making them accessible to a modern audience. It is a powerful and thought-provoking book that will leave a lasting impression on readers!
One of the most striking things about this book is the way it captures the essence of Swami Vivekananda's teachings. The author's writing is clear and concise, and he does an excellent job of conveying the message of the great spiritual leader. The book is filled with wisdom and insights that are as relevant today as they were when the speeches were first delivered.
The book also provides a glimpse into the life and times of Swami Vivekananda. The reader is able to understand the social and political context in which he lived and how his teachings were influenced by the events of his time. The author does an excellent job of painting a picture of the historical context and making it relatable to the modern reader.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is the way it highlights the universality of Swami Vivekananda's teachings. The author emphasizes that the spiritual leader's message is not limited to any particular religious or cultural group, but is applicable to all people, regardless of their background. This is a powerful message that resonates with readers of all backgrounds and is a reminder of the importance of tolerance and understanding in today's world.
The book is also an excellent resource for those who are interested in learning more about Indian philosophy and spirituality. The author provides a comprehensive overview of the main ideas and concepts of Indian spiritual thought and how they are related to the teachings of Swami Vivekananda.
In conclusion, Vivekananda: His Call to the Nation by Swami Vivekananda is a must-read for anyone interested in the life and teachings of one of India's most influential spiritual leaders. The book is filled with wisdom and insights that are as relevant today as they were when the speeches were first delivered. The author does an excellent job of capturing the essence of Swami Vivekananda's teachings and making them accessible to a modern audience. It is a powerful and thought-provoking book that will leave a lasting impression on readers!
June 12, 2025
A Timeless Call to Action & Inner Strength
"Vivekananda: His Call to the Nation" is a robust and timeless work by one of India's greatest spiritual masters. Swami Vivekananda's writings are still able to speak to readers of any generation, a potent combination of spiritual insight, patriotic fervor, and a call to service for self-realization and duty.
This book, while brief, is full of inspiration. Vivekananda's tone is assertive and unambiguous, calling on the youth to wake up, break beyond confinements, and be of use to the country and mankind. His call for toughness, character, discipline, and self-assurance rings a deep bell, particularly in the modern times when identity and purpose tend to be fragmented.
The writing is rich and vibrant, typical of Vivekananda's passionate oratory. Sometimes the richness of his allusions presupposes an understanding of Indian philosophy, so that readers without a background in Vedantic philosophy must read slowly and think—but that, also, is part of the richness of the book.
Its only slight drawback is a dearth of rich context or footnotes for the modern reader, which can make certain sections of it obscure or even old-fashioned. But the raw power and candor of the message easily compensate for this.
In short, His Call to the Nation is not a book—it is a call to bring out our best. A book that everyone interested in spirituality, leadership, and the nature of serving humankind should read.
"Vivekananda: His Call to the Nation" is a robust and timeless work by one of India's greatest spiritual masters. Swami Vivekananda's writings are still able to speak to readers of any generation, a potent combination of spiritual insight, patriotic fervor, and a call to service for self-realization and duty.
This book, while brief, is full of inspiration. Vivekananda's tone is assertive and unambiguous, calling on the youth to wake up, break beyond confinements, and be of use to the country and mankind. His call for toughness, character, discipline, and self-assurance rings a deep bell, particularly in the modern times when identity and purpose tend to be fragmented.
The writing is rich and vibrant, typical of Vivekananda's passionate oratory. Sometimes the richness of his allusions presupposes an understanding of Indian philosophy, so that readers without a background in Vedantic philosophy must read slowly and think—but that, also, is part of the richness of the book.
Its only slight drawback is a dearth of rich context or footnotes for the modern reader, which can make certain sections of it obscure or even old-fashioned. But the raw power and candor of the message easily compensate for this.
In short, His Call to the Nation is not a book—it is a call to bring out our best. A book that everyone interested in spirituality, leadership, and the nature of serving humankind should read.
January 1, 2026
Vivekananda: His Call to the Nation is a powerful and compelling collection that captures Swami Vivekananda’s timeless message to the youth and citizens of India. His words are rooted in strength, discipline, character, and service and remain as relevant today as when they were first spoken. The book distills his vision into a concise, highly readable format that makes his teachings both accessible and deeply impactful.
On a personal note, reading this book felt energizing. Vivekananda’s clarity and conviction have a way of stirring something within you, a reminder to rise above complacency and live with purpose. It’s a small book, but one that lingers long after you’ve finished it, encouraging you to reflect not just on the nation’s potential, but on your own.
On a personal note, reading this book felt energizing. Vivekananda’s clarity and conviction have a way of stirring something within you, a reminder to rise above complacency and live with purpose. It’s a small book, but one that lingers long after you’ve finished it, encouraging you to reflect not just on the nation’s potential, but on your own.
January 21, 2026
All the books that I have read till now were like taking a shower. This one made me swim through the ocean. It contains loads of wisdom condensed. Few sentences can give you the whole essence of many self help books. This must be read. Reread. I ordered the other works of vivekananda. This is surely a life turning event to me.
April 1, 2022
A summary of sorts of the life and teachings of this great sage, this book is the refresher we need to remember!
Quick read too!
Quick read too!
November 5, 2023
It talks about everything related to Vivekananda, his birth, parents, personality, teacher, journey, findings, and everything related to him.
December 4, 2019
Disappointed.The book is utterly dull and nearly void of anything useful.My bad to read it.
fayazulla
April 6, 2018😂😎😍😍😍😘😄😋
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews