How Did Swami Vivekananda Die? The Story Behind His Final Moments
Swami Vivekananda died in 1902 at age 39. More than 120 years later, his teachings on youth, service, and spiritual strength continue to inspire across the world
More than 120 years since his passing, Swami Vivekananda remains a beacon of wisdom, courage, and spiritual awakening. Though his life was short, his impact was immeasurable.
Swami Vivekananda passed away on July 4, 1902, at the age of just 39. In his final days, despite suffering from asthma, diabetes, and insomnia, he remained committed to meditation, teaching, and service. He is believed to have attained Mahasamadhi during meditation at Belur Math, near Kolkata, West Bengal.
Early Life And Global Recognition
Swami Vivekananda was an exceptional individual, known for his brilliant intellect and profound spiritual insight. He rose to international prominence following his speech at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago in 1893, where he represented India and Hindu philosophy on a global platform.
Regrettably, due to poor health, he was unable to attend the 1901 Parliament of the World's Religions held in Japan. As detailed in Gopal Srinivas Banhatti's biography, Swami Vivekananda suffered from chronic illnesses in his later years, including asthma, diabetes, and insomnia. Yet, in spite of his deteriorating condition, he continued to meditate, write extensively, and actively support the work of the Ramakrishna Mission.
Final Hours Of Swami Vivekananda
The final moments of Swami Vivekananda's life are described in Rajagopal Chattopadhyay's work Swami Vivekananda in India: A Corrective Biography. He spent his last days at Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission. On the day of his passing, he maintained his usual spiritual discipline, beginning with three hours of meditation.
As evening drew near, he entered meditation once more, instructing those around him not to disturb him. According to an account, he had asked for complete silence during this time. He passed away during meditation at approximately 9:20 PM. His disciples believed he had attained Mahasamadhi, the yogic act of consciously leaving the body.
Swami Vivekananda's Cause Of Death
According to Swami Virajananda, a senior disciple, the cause of Swami Vivekananda's death was the rupture of a blood vessel in the brain. His followers, however, believed this physical event was spiritually significant, associated with the Brahmarandhra, the crown of the head in yogic tradition.
Remarkably, Swami Vivekananda had long predicted that he would not live beyond the age of 40, a prophecy that came true. He was cremated on the banks of the Ganges at Belur, at the same spot where his revered guru, Ramakrishna Paramhansa, had been cremated 16 years earlier.
Legacy And Achievements
The circumstances of Swami Vivekananda's death remain a subject of reflection, some attributing it to his long-term health conditions, others to the intense rigour of meditation. His disciples were firm in their belief that he consciously left his body in the highest state of spiritual attainment.
In the days before his passing, Swami Vivekananda declared that he had fulfilled his life's purpose: to awaken spiritual consciousness, serve humanity, and instil strength and confidence in the youth of India and the world. He departed this world at the age of 39, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire millions.
Swami Vivekananda's Enduring Contributions
Swami Vivekananda's influence stretches far beyond his short life, and his ideas continue to shape modern India's intellectual, social, and spiritual landscape:
Parliament of the World's Religions, Chicago (1893): His opening words, 'My American brothers and sisters," won him instant admiration and showcased India's spiritual wealth to the world.
Founding of the Ramakrishna Mission and Belur Math: Established in Kolkata, these institutions remain pillars of education, humanitarian service, and spiritual growth.
Educational Reform: He championed education that builds character, promotes self-reliance, and equips individuals to face life's challenges. He valued practical knowledge over rote learning.
Service to Humanity: Declaring 'Service to man is service to God," he urged people to serve the poor and marginalised as the highest form of worship.
Revival of Indian Culture and National Pride: He inspired Indians to embrace their heritage and culture with confidence, laying the spiritual foundation for the national freedom movement.
Religious Harmony and Inclusiveness: Advocating unity among faiths, he popularised the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world as one family.
Promotion of Yoga and Meditation: He played a key role in introducing the philosophical and practical aspects of yoga and meditation to the West.
Youth Inspiration: His timeless message, 'Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached," continues to motivate generations of young minds.
Major Works: Notable among his writings are Raja Yoga (1896), Vedanta philosophy: lectures on Jnana Yoga (1902), and various compilations of his speeches and letters, all of which remain widely read and revered.
Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated!
tags :
belur math death anniversary Kolkata Ramkrishna Mission Swami Vivekananda
Location :
New Delhi, India, India
First Published:
July 04, 2025, 10:40 IST
News india How Did Swami Vivekananda Die? The Story Behind His Final Moments
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News18
4 hours ago
- News18
Who Was Dr Kishore Divan? Indian-Origin Anesthesiologist Killed With Family In Tragic US Crash
Four members of an Indian-origin family, including retired anesthesiologist Dr. Kishore Divan, were killed in a car crash in West Virginia Four members of an Indian-origin family, including a well-known retired doctor, were killed in a tragic car crash in the United States while on their way to visit a temple in West Virginia over the weekend. Among the deceased was Kishore Divan, an 89-year-old anesthesiologist who lived and worked in Williamsville, New York. His wife, Asha Divan, and two others—Shailesh Divan and Gita Divan—were also killed in the accident. All four were believed to be in their 80s. Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact relationship between the two couples, although they shared the same surname and appeared together in social media posts. The family was travelling to Prabhupada's Palace of Gold, located in the New Vrindaban community in West Virginia. The temple is a memorial to Srila Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Who Was Dr Kishore Divan? Dr Kishore Divan was a respected medical professional, affiliated with Kaleida Health-Buffalo General Medical Center. According to his professional profiles on WebMD, US News Health, and Doximity, he specialised in anaesthesiology and served the local community for decades. A graduate of Kasturba Medical College, Manipal (Class of 1962), Divan completed his medical residency at the University at Buffalo in 1972. His Facebook profile suggests he studied at Bharda New High School in Mumbai before moving to the US. Friends and members of the local Indian-American community remembered Divan as a dedicated physician and community leader. In a tribute posted on Facebook, Uma Maheswari Krishnan called him a 'super-charged hero" and praised both Divan and his wife Asha for their kindness and involvement in cultural and religious activities. When void spaces surround 😔RIP – Divan a shattered heart & deepest sadness inform the demise… Posted by Uma Maheswari Krishnan on Saturday, August 2, 2025 'Will miss u greatly Kishore uncle, you were always there like a Dad. Buffalo community will miss this super charged Hero( a physician, philanthrapist & community leader )& his sweet spouse. Together, they supported this community with their relentless service, adding value to people & organizations," Krishnan wrote? Divan was also actively involved in the management of Hindu temples in the Western New York area. He was associated with the Hindu Cultural Society of Western New York, where fellow community members appreciated his long-standing commitment and service. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Time of India
Datura: The sacred night-blooming flower you can grow at home by following these 10 steps
Datura, known as the "moonflower" or "angel's trumpet," is a striking and spiritually significant plant native to many parts of India. Its large, trumpet-shaped flowers bloom at dusk, releasing a heady fragrance and offering visual drama to any garden. With its swirling blossoms and hypnotic scent, Datura often becomes a conversation starter among garden visitors and plant lovers. Deeply rooted in Hindu rituals, especially those honouring Lord Shiva, Datura carries both cultural and ornamental value. Despite its toxicity, it's easy to grow and care for, making it a popular choice for home gardeners. With the right precautions and growing conditions, Datura thrives in pots or terraces, bringing a mystical charm to urban Indian homes. Step-by-step guide to growing Datura at home (even in pots or balconies) Choose the right variety for home gardening There are several types of Datura, but for home gardeners, especially those growing in pots, Datura metel is a great choice. It's compact, has highly decorative purple or double blooms, and is widely available in Indian nurseries. This variety performs well in containers and is ideal for small balconies, terraces, or garden beds. Ensure plenty of sunlight Datura is a sun-loving plant that needs at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. Without sufficient light, the plant may look weak and leggy, and it might not produce flowers. Place your pot in a bright, unobstructed spot—like a south-facing balcony or rooftop. Use a large, well-draining container A mature Datura plant can grow quite large, so choose a pot that's at least 12–16 inches wide and deep. Make sure it has multiple drainage holes. Clay or terracotta pots are ideal because they absorb excess water and prevent the roots from staying too wet—a common cause of root rot. Prepare the right soil mix The soil should be well-draining yet nutrient-rich. You can use a mix of: 1 part garden soil 1 part compost or organic manure 1 part cocopeat or coarse sand This blend ensures good aeration and moisture balance. Avoid using heavy clay soil or pure compost, which can retain too much water. Start from seeds or cuttings Datura can be easily grown from seeds. To improve germination: Soak the seeds overnight in lukewarm water. Sow them 1 cm deep in moist soil. Keep the container in a warm, sunny area. Seedlings typically appear in 1–3 weeks. Alternatively, you can propagate Datura using softwood stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Water mindfully Datura prefers soil that's moist but not soggy. Here's how to water properly: During summer, water every 2–3 days or when the top inch of soil feels dry. In winter, reduce watering to once a week or less, depending on conditions. Always allow excess water to drain out of the pot. Overwatering can lead to fungal problems and root rot, while underwatering may cause wilting. Feed monthly during active growth During the growing season (spring to monsoon), apply a balanced liquid fertiliser once a month. A phosphorus-rich fertiliser will boost flowering. You can also use compost tea or diluted cow dung slurry as a natural option. Stop fertilising during the winter months when the plant goes semi-dormant. Prune regularly for shape and flowering To keep your Datura plant bushy and healthy: Pinch off the tips when it reaches about 1 to 1.5 feet in height. Prune regularly to remove dried leaves and faded flowers. Deadheading (removing spent blooms) encourages more flowers to grow. Pruning also improves air circulation and reduces the risk of pests. Keep an eye out for pests and fungal issues Datura is generally resistant to most pests, making it a relatively low-maintenance plant. However, it may occasionally attract common garden pests such as aphids, whiteflies, or spider mites, especially during warm, humid conditions. To prevent infestations, it's a good idea to spray neem oil every 10–15 days as a natural insecticide. Additionally, wiping the leaves gently with a damp cloth can help remove dust and discourage pests from settling. Avoiding overhead watering is also important, as excess moisture on the leaves can create a favourable environment for fungal growth. With these simple steps, you can keep your Datura healthy and pest-free. Handle with caution Datura is highly toxic; its leaves, seeds, and flowers contain compounds that can be harmful if ingested or if sap gets into your eyes or mouth. Always: Wear gloves while pruning or repotting. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the plant. Keep it out of reach of pets and children. Despite its toxicity, Datura is safe to grow as long as it's treated with care and respect, just like any other ornamental plant with strong natural compounds. Datura isn't just a plant; it's a living symbol of mystery, transformation, and night-time beauty. Watching it unfurl its creamy or violet flowers at dusk feels almost magical, and its ability to thrive in hot, dry climates makes it perfect for Indian urban gardens. Whether you're drawn to its spiritual associations or simply want a striking, low-maintenance flowering plant, Datura brings a powerful presence to your garden. With a little sunlight, space, and care, this moonlit beauty will reward you with blooms that turn heads and spark curiosity. Also Read: Why Amaranth is a must-have plant for every home gardener and how to grow it Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes , messages and quotes !
Hindustan Times
7 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
4 elderly Indians killed in US road trip to temple: A veteran doctor and family
Four Indian-origin senior citizens — Dr Kishore Divan, Asha Divan, Shailesh Divan, and Gita Divan — have died in a car crash while on a road trip to a temple in the US. Four Indian-origin family members — Asha Divan, Kishore Divan, Shailesh Divan, and Gita Divan — were last seen at a Burger King in Erie, Pennsylvania.(FB/@Marshall County Sheriff's Office) They were reported missing almost a week ago from Buffalo, New York, and their car, a Toyota Camry, was found around 9.30 pm local time on August 2, as per the sheriff's office. The four, all in their 80s, were on their way to the Palace of Gold, a Hindu temple around 270 miles from Buffalo, where they reportedly lived. The temple in West Virginia is a memorial to Srila Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Dr Kishore Divan, who worked in Williamsville, New York, specialised in anesthesiology, according to his WebMD records. He graduated from a medical college in India in 1962, it adds.
