Mandya: Deputy commissioner Kumara on Monday called upon citizens, especially the youth, to adopt the ideals, thoughts, and values of Swami Vivekananda and strive to become responsible and exemplary citizens of the nation.Speaking after inaugurating the National Youth Day programme organised at Mandya University to mark the 163rd birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, Kumara described Jan 12 as a significant day in India’s history. He recalled that during a period of national hardship and uncertainty in the 19th century, Swami Vivekananda emerged as a guiding light. He said greatness is measured not by the length of one’s life but by one’s contribution to society, and Vivekananda’s life exemplified this truth.The event was jointly organised by the district administration, zilla panchayat, department of youth empowerment and sports, My Bharat Centre, Mandya University, National Service Scheme (NSS), and the department of computer science.Kumara noted that Swami Vivekananda earned global respect for India through his historic address at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893. Highlighting Vivekananda’s faith in youth power, Kumara urged young people to develop self-belief, clarity of purpose, confidence, and moral strength. He emphasised that believing in oneself is as important as believing in God, and that both the journey and the goal matter in life.Mandya University vice-chancellor K Shivachittappa said Vivekananda continues to inspire generations of youth, while superintendent of police Shobharani VJ stressed the importance of understanding history to build the future. Muda commissioner and university registrar Krishnakumar, NSS coordinator Pramila MB, and DYES assistant director Omprakash were also present.
