What was the original name of Swami Vivekananda?

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The original name of Swami Vivekananda was Narendranath Datta. He was born on January 12, 1863, in Calcutta (now Kolkata), West Bengal, in a well-educated and respected Bengali family.

Early Life and Education
Narendranath Datta grew up in an affluent and intellectual family, which greatly India Phone Number List influenced his education and worldview. He was a bright and inquisitive child and displayed a strong interest in philosophy and spirituality from an early age. His father was a successful attorney, and the family's environment fostered his academic pursuits.

Narendranath received his early education at home and later attended Presidency College in Calcutta, where he studied Western philosophy, history, and mathematics. He was deeply influenced by Indian philosophical traditions and spent time studying Hindu scriptures like the Vedas, Upanishads, and the teachings of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, who would become a major influence in his life.



Meeting with Ramakrishna
Narendranath's spiritual journey took a significant turn when he met Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, the famous Indian saint, in 1881. Ramakrishna’s teachings and guidance inspired Narendranath to explore spirituality more deeply. He became a devoted disciple of Ramakrishna, learning about the concepts of Vedanta and the path of self-realization.

Taking the Name Vivekananda
After the passing of his guru, Ramakrishna, Narendranath took on the name Vivekananda, which is derived from Sanskrit words: "Viveka" meaning discrimination or discernment, and "Ananda" meaning bliss or joy. This name symbolized his spiritual quest for wisdom, discernment, and joy in the path of spiritual growth.

His Role as a Spiritual Leader
Swami Vivekananda is widely celebrated for his role in introducing Indian philosophy, spirituality, and Vedanta to the Western world. His most notable speech was at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893, where he addressed the audience with his iconic greeting, "Sisters and Brothers of America", and highlighted the universal values of tolerance and mutual respect.

Legacy
Swami Vivekananda's life and teachings continue to inspire millions USA Phone number Database worldwide. His emphasis on self-reliance, service to humanity, and spiritual exploration left a lasting impact on India and the world. He founded the Ramakrishna Mission, an organization dedicated to social service, education, and spiritual development.

In conclusion, the original name of Swami Vivekananda was Narendranath Datta, and his journey from a young, inquisitive student to one of India’s greatest spiritual leaders exemplifies his transformation through study, self-awareness, and faith. His name change symbolized his commitment to wisdom and spiritual growth.