Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary is celebrated every year on January 12. It is observed in India as National Youth Day. Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/ Rediff.com Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/ Rediff.com

Vivekananda was born 162 years ago in Kolkata, India. Often referred to as “America’s first guru,” Vivekananda whose birth name was Narendra Nath Dutta, founded the Vedanta Society of New York in 1894, one year after landing in the U.S. It became the very first ashram of its kind outside of India.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath applauded Swami Vivekananda for promoting Sanatan Vedic culture globally during colonial times. Highlighting his influence on India's freedom, he unveiled Vivekananda's statue and discussed the Swami Vivekananda Youth Empowerment Scheme.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Swami Vivekananda on his birth anniversary, acknowledging him as an inspiration for the youth. Modi emphasized their commitment to fulfilling Vivekananda's vision of a strong India.