Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today graced the National Youth Day celebrations at Utkal University’s Vani Vihar campus, commemorating the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. The event highlighted the timeless teachings of Swami Vivekananda as the foundation for nation-building and character development.
In his address, the Chief Minister described Swami Vivekananda as the bedrock of nation-building and a profound symbol of character values. He emphasized that the great spiritual leader’s life continues to serve as an boundless source of inspiration for India’s youth.
Chief Minister Majhi noted that Swami Vivekananda placed unwavering faith in the youth, repeatedly stating that they alone hold the power to transform India’s destiny. He recalled Swamiji’s vision of education, which goes beyond mere bookish knowledge to encompass true wisdom, brahmacharya (self-discipline), faith, discipline, and self-confidence as the core mantras of learning.
The Chief Minister further highlighted Swamiji’s emphasis on harmonizing Western science with Vedanta philosophy, a balanced approach that remains relevant today.
He assured that the state government is committed to youth empowerment through various initiatives, including skill development programs, training, excellence in sports, and cultural pursuits. “Today, Odisha is recognized as the country’s ‘Sports Capital’,” Majhi added, underscoring the strides made in promoting holistic youth development.
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj also addressed the gathering, praising Odisha’s youth for achieving global excellence. He noted that the Fit India Mission, launched by the Government of India, has evolved into a nationwide movement, motivating every Indian toward a healthy and successful lifestyle.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Ekamra-Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh, Utkal University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Yajneswar Dandapat, Higher Education Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary Arvind Agrawal, and Secretary of Odia Language, Literature and Culture Bijay Ketan Upadhyay.
National Youth Day, observed annually on January 12, serves as a powerful reminder of Swami Vivekananda’s call to the youth to arise, awake, and strive relentlessly toward personal and national excellence. The celebrations at Utkal University reflected this enduring spirit of inspiration and empowerment.
