The Untold Legacy: Dr. Nikhil Yadav on Gandhi’s Devotion to Ramakrishna and Vivekananda
New Delhi
The profound spiritual relationship between Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and his chief disciple, Swami Vivekananda, is a celebrated chapter in Indian and global history. Yet, what remains lesser known is the deep reverence Mahatma Gandhi had for both these spiritual luminaries. A desire to meet Swami Vivekananda remained unfulfilled in Gandhi’s lifetime, but his spiritual connection with Vivekananda’s teachings and Sri Ramakrishna’s wisdom shaped his moral and philosophical outlook in ways that few are aware of. This overlooked influence has now been brought to light in a groundbreaking new work by Dr. Nikhil Yadav.
The book, titled Influence of the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Movement on Gandhi, was officially launched at a scholarly gathering at the Gandhi Bhawan, University of Delhi, North Campus. The event witnessed a distinguished audience, including faculty and research scholars from Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University, alongside eminent academicians, spiritual leaders, and individuals engaged with India’s rich cultural and philosophical heritage.
An Event to Remember
The book launch was marked by the presence of several notable personalities. Shri Bharat Arora Ji, All India Seh-Sampark Pramukh of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, graced the event as the chief guest. The session was presided over by Shri Manas Bhattacharjee, Sangathak of the Vivekananda Kendra, North Zone, while Dr. Raj Kumar Falwaria and Dr. Ananya Awasthi were the guests of honor.
In his introductory remarks, Dr. Nikhil Yadav, Deputy Head of Vivekananda Kendra North Zone and a renowned scholar of the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda tradition, highlighted that while there have been countless studies on Mahatma Gandhi, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, and Swami Vivekananda individually, this book offers the first comprehensive examination of Gandhi’s devotion to both spiritual figures.
A Scholarly Perspective on Gandhi’s Influences
Dr. Nikhil Yadav underscored that Mahatma Gandhi’s spiritual journey was deeply intertwined with the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda. Gandhi’s admiration for Vivekananda began in his formative years, particularly during his time in South Africa, and their influence continued to resonate throughout his life.
The book meticulously explores Gandhi’s frequent references to both Ramakrishna and Vivekananda in his speeches, letters, and writings. Drawing extensively from the Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Yadav provides numerous instances where Gandhi drew inspiration from their teachings on truth, spirituality, and service to humanity.
While introducing the book, Dr. Yadav explained, “Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda were silent teachers in Gandhi’s life. Though he never met them, their teachings served as a moral compass that guided his political and spiritual convictions.”
Gandhi’s Spiritual Connection
Gandhi’s connection to the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda movement was more than admiration; it was an integral part of his worldview.
- Influence of Swami Vivekananda: Gandhi regarded Swami Vivekananda’s emphasis on practical Vedanta, social reform, and spiritual awakening as critical to national regeneration. Vivekananda’s call for fearlessness and service to the downtrodden echoed in Gandhi’s lifelong struggle for equality and non-violence.
- Inspiration from Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa: Gandhi was deeply moved by Sri Ramakrishna’s teachings on universal harmony and the idea that all religions lead to the same truth. Ramakrishna’s simplicity and humility resonated with Gandhi’s own vision of a truthful, inclusive society.
The book uncovers how Gandhi assimilated these teachings and applied them to his leadership in India’s freedom movement, advocating for harmony, non-violence, and moral courage.
A Fresh Analytical Lens
In Influence of the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Movement on Gandhi, Dr. Yadav offers a fresh analytical perspective that connects Gandhi’s thought with the spiritual legacy of Ramakrishna and Vivekananda. The book highlights Gandhi’s repeated acknowledgments of their teachings as a source of strength and inspiration, presenting:
- Direct references to Vivekananda’s speeches and writings in Gandhi’s collected works.
- Gandhi’s visits to the Ramakrishna Mission, which he deeply respected for its humanitarian work.
- Discussions on Gandhi’s philosophy of truth and non-violence as reflections of Ramakrishna and Vivekananda’s ideals.
This scholarly work fills a critical gap in understanding the spiritual influences that shaped Gandhi’s ethical and political ideology.
Conclusion
The launch of Influence of the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Movement on Gandhi marks a significant contribution to Indian philosophical and historical scholarship. Dr. Nikhil Yadav’s meticulous research sheds light on the untold legacy of Ramakrishna and Vivekananda as silent yet profound influences in Gandhi’s life.
This book not only bridges a historical gap but also serves as a reminder of how spirituality and leadership can merge to create transformative movements. By unraveling the deep connections between Gandhi, Sri Ramakrishna, and Swami Vivekananda, Dr. Yadav’s work stands as a testament to the timeless wisdom of India’s spiritual heritage—one that continues to inspire generations.
The event at Gandhi Bhawan was a celebration of this enduring legacy, bringing together scholars, spiritual leaders, and thinkers who remain committed to exploring India’s cultural and spiritual richness.
