SYNOPSIS OF THE CONTENTS

Introduction: The introduction to the book brings out the universal and unifying aspects of Indian spiritual and cultural heritage and shows how the great genius of Swami Vivekananda tried to establish not only its practicality and relevance in the present-day world but also reiterated the urgent need to follow its tenets for the onward progress of mankind – the development and enlightenment of the individual and for peace and harmony in society.

Vivekananda – His Gospel of Man-making: Vivekananda's thoughts on the art of moulding people, combining scientific temper with a spiritual basis, are enshrined in this section. Transforming individuals was his main pre-occupation, for he believed that in such free, fearless persons of character, enlightenment and love lay the hope of the world. Transformation of persons is the only solution for all the ills that are found in the society. Swamiji has provided the best of remedies for today’s social and global illness.

Vivekananda on Education and Religion -– Interpretations and Allied Thoughts : This section highlighting not only the importance of Swami Vivekananda’s life and teachings but also the impact it has produced on the world citizens from various walks of life brings together the vast collection of observations on him. The multi-faceted personality of the great Swami, seen, known, adored and worshipped by many contemporaries, his and ours, get painted on the canvas of the last one century of Indian cultural history.

Vivekananda –- The Man and his Mission (Tributes): Swamiji's ideas springing forth from the fountainhead of his realization that each soul is potentially divine get amplified and reinforced in this section through several scholarly voices. This innate divinity of mankind was what Swamiji emphasized all the time, as he was fully convinced through his own life and of his Great Master that on this foundation alone can be built the beautiful edifice of human life grounded on character, dignity and integrity, not only of the individual but also of the nation.

A Chronicle of Important Events in the Life and Times of Vivekananda: This part aims at presenting Swamiji's historic image in the context of the contemporary movements – political, social, cultural, etc. This is useful for a proper understanding of Swamiji’s mission in world perspective. Besides the principal event in the life of the Swami, the Chronicle thus covers significant landmarks in various spheres of human activity in India and abroad during the years 1863-1902.

Vivekananda – A Voice from Across the Century: In the context of the centenary of Swamiji's appearance in the World's Parliament of Religions held at Chicago on September 11, 1893, this part highlights his visit to and the impact on the West, and his historic Chicago Address. Portraying him as a bridge between the East and the West, it shows how Vivekananda is a dynamic spiritual force to shape the future of the humanity.

Vivekananda in Pictures: This part enables the readers to see Swamiji visually through illustrations. It contains a selection of eighty photographs projecting tapestry-like a visual review of the evolution of Naren into Vivekananda the prophet of ‘Awakened India’, of man’s awakening into his true Self, and of the efflorescence of the Divine in everyday human life.

Vivekananda Literature – Books by and on Vivekananda: An exhaustive list of over 200 books by and on Swami Vivekananda is appended to the book for reference and further study.