Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902) was a spiritual leader, philosopher, and social reformer from West Bengal, who played a pivotal role in introducing Indian philosophy and spirituality to the Western world. Born as Narendranath Datta in Kolkata, he was deeply influenced by his guru, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, whose teachings of spiritual unity and universal religion shaped Vivekananda’s worldview.
Vivekananda gained worldwide fame after his powerful speech at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago in 1893, where he began with the iconic words: “Sisters and brothers of America…” His message of religious tolerance, universal brotherhood, and the inherent divinity of the soul deeply resonated with audiences across the globe.