Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902) is considered to be a major force in the revival of Hinduism in modern India. His teachings influenced the thinking of other national leaders and philosophers, like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Aurobindo Ghosh, Radhakrishnan.
Subhash Chandra Bose, one of the most prominent figures in Indian independence movement, said:
I cannot write about Vivekananda without going into raptures. Few indeed could comprehend or fathom him even among those who had the privilege of becoming intimate with him. His personality was rich, profound and complex… Reckless in his sacrifice, unceasing in his activity, boundless in his love, profound and versatile in his wisdom, exuberant in his emotions, merciless in his attacks but yet simple as a child, he was a rare personality in this world of ours.
Rabindranath Tagore had said, “If you want to know India, study Vivekananda. In him everything is positive and nothing negative.”
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