National Youth Day, also known as Yuva Diwas, is celebrated on 12 January every year in India. The day marks the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, one of the most popular philosophers and thinkers of India, and is celebrated as the Yuva Diwas to recognise his contributions to the Indian society. This is primarily because he was one of the most prominent leaders of his time to influence the youth of India.
This day is celebrated to honour Swami Vivekananda, as well as encourage the youth to work hard and contribute to the overall development of their country.
National Youth Day 2022: History
The Government of India declared Swami Vivekananda’s birthday as the National Youth Day of India in 1985. This was primarily done to motivate the youth of India to follow in the footsteps of Swami Vivekananda and ultimately lead to the prosperity of the nation.
Born in 1863, it is amazing how Swami Vivekananda serves as a consistent inspiration to lakhs of Indian youths even today.
In fact, one of the strongest messages he gave to the youth was, "What I want is muscles of iron and nerves of steel, inside which dwells a mind of the same material as that of which the thunderbolt is made."
National Youth Day: Significance
Different states in India organise multiple events, each different from the other to celebrate this day. For example, Uttar Pradesh witnesses a two-day event called 'Mission Bhartiyam' and 'Basti Yuvo Mahotsav', to promote and motivate the youth of India.
In addition to this, a National Youth Festival is also organised in India wherein people from all over the country participate in various cultural and educational activities to promote unity and harmony in the country.
Besides this, the Ramakrishna Math and Mission also celebrates the National Youth Day on a large scale. Ardent followers of Swami Vivekananda meditate, organise devotional programs, and offer evening prayers, amongst many other activies.
Also, the 'The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda', the comprehensive book that contains all the teachings of Swami Vivekananda is also recited in parts and serves as an inspiration for youths to recognise their potential and work hard.
The theme for National Youth Day 2022 is “It's all in the mind,” a key teaching of Swami Vivekananda. He was known for preaching religious tolerance and combining Indian spirituality with western material progress
