Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Sep 11: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday shared excerpts of Swami Vivekananda’s historic address at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago on September 11, 1893, calling it “among the most celebrated and inspiring moments in our history.”

Posting on X, PM Modi wrote that the speech was a watershed moment that emphasised harmony and universal brotherhood while showcasing the ideals of Indian culture to the world.

Swami Vivekananda began his speech with the now-famous greeting, “Sisters and Brothers of America,” which reportedly drew a two-minute standing ovation. He spoke passionately on religious tolerance and universal acceptance, declaring, “I am proud to belong to a religion which has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance. We believe not only in universal toleration, but we accept all religions as true.”

Highlighting India’s tradition of sheltering persecuted communities, he noted how Hindus welcomed Jews and Zoroastrians and quoted the Gita to affirm the oneness of all faiths: “Whosoever comes to Me, through whatsoever form, I reach him; all men are struggling through paths which in the end lead to Me.”

Denouncing sectarianism and fanaticism, Vivekananda expressed hope that the gathering would mark “the death-knell of all fanaticism, of all persecutions with the sword or with the pen.” His timeless message of inclusivity and spiritual unity, PM Modi said, continues to inspire the nation and the world even 132 years later.