Hiteswar Saikia Memorial Lecture: Exploring the Relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s Thoughts in Present Times

The Hiteswar Saikia Foundation, known for its dedication to the promotion of intellectual and cultural activities in Assam, recently hosted a significant and thought-provoking event – The Hiteswar Saikia Memorial Lecture. The theme of the lecture was timely and powerful:

“The Relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s Thoughts and Ideology in Present Times.”

The event took place at the prestigious Rabindra Sadan, Bishnu Rabha Hall in Dibrugarh, on a serene Sunday morning at 11 AM. The hall was tastefully adorned with vibrant floral arrangements and a dignified setup that reflected the solemnity and intellectual gravity of the occasion.

Honoring a Visionary Leader: Hiteswar Saikia

Hiteswar Saikia, a stalwart political leader and former Chief Minister of Assam, was widely respected for his commitment to development, education, and cultural enrichment. The foundation established in his memory continues to uphold his values, engaging the public through lectures, discussions, and events that promote critical thinking and intellectual growth.

Theme and Context

The chosen topic, “The Relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s Thoughts and Ideology in Present Times,” resonates deeply in today’s fast-evolving, often turbulent world. Swami Vivekananda, a spiritual luminary and philosopher, remains a guiding force for youth, scholars, and leaders across the globe. His emphasis on spiritual awakening, national pride, social justice, and selfless service continues to hold immense significance.

Distinguished Speakers

The memorial lecture featured two eminent personalities:

Dr. Tapodhir Bhattacharjee

Former Vice-Chancellor of Assam University, Dr. Bhattacharjee is an esteemed academic and intellectual known for his deep understanding of philosophy, literature, and culture. His insights into Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy bridged historical context with contemporary challenges, encouraging the audience to reflect on how these teachings can be applied today.

Mayur Bora

A well-known banker, thinker, and writer, Mayur Bora’s multifaceted background brought a unique perspective to the discussion. He eloquently explored the relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s messages in the fields of economics, social cohesion, and youth empowerment. His address was particularly inspiring to the younger members of the audience.

Key Highlights from the Lecture

Spiritual Humanism: Both speakers emphasized Vivekananda’s belief that service to humanity is service to God. In a world grappling with inequality and social unrest, this philosophy offers a blueprint for compassionate action.
Education as Empowerment: Swami Vivekananda championed education that builds character, instills strength, and promotes self-confidence. The lecture highlighted how modern educational systems can integrate these values to produce well-rounded individuals.
Nationalism and Global Vision: Vivekananda’s idea of true nationalism, rooted in service and spiritual awakening, was discussed in relation to modern concepts of global citizenship.
Youth and Social Change: A large part of Vivekananda’s mission was focused on awakening the potential of the youth. The speakers urged the younger generation to embrace responsibility, uphold ethical standards, and work for social transformation.

Audience Engagement

The event drew a diverse audience, including academicians, students, professionals, and spiritual seekers. The engaging and articulate addresses by the speakers kept the audience absorbed. A vibrant Q&A session followed, where attendees posed insightful questions, leading to meaningful discussions.

A Platform for Intellectual Dialogue

Events like the Hiteswar Saikia Memorial Lecture serve as a vital platform for the exchange of ideas, reflection, and inspiration. They not only honor the legacy of Hiteswar Saikia but also encourage critical engagement with philosophies that can guide society forward.

In today’s era of rapid change, the teachings of Swami Vivekananda offer timeless wisdom and practical guidance. The Hiteswar Saikia Foundation’s initiative to explore and propagate these ideas through such lectures helps in keeping the spirit of inquiry alive while also inspiring action for a better society.

As Dr. Tapodhir Bhattacharjee and Mayur Bora rightly pointed out, revisiting and reapplying Vivekananda’s ideology can empower individuals and communities to rise above divisions, embrace unity, and strive for collective progress.

The lecture was not just an intellectual exercise—it was a call to action, urging all to embody the values of courage, compassion, and commitment that Swami Vivekananda so passionately lived by.

Stay connected with the Hiteswar Saikia Foundation for more such enlightening events that aim to enrich minds and uplift communities.