Bengal pays tribute to Swami Vivekananda

Kolkata, Jan 12: Ceremonial processions and exhibitions on the life and work of Swami Vivekananda were held across West Bengal to mark the monk's 153rd birth anniversary on Tuesday.

Swami Vivekananda, born on January 12, 1863, is considered to be the key figure who introduced Yoga to the world.

West Bengal youth affairs department celebrated the day by organising the Vivek Chetana Utsav.

In association with Ramakrishna Math and Mission, it hosted a series of discussions on the character-building of students and the youth, quizzes on Swami Vivekananda, debates, exhibition football matches, sit-and-draw competitions, essay writing competitions and other cultural programmes.

West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Dilip Ghosh offered floral tributes at the philosopher's statue at his ancestral house in north Kolkata.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged the people to dedicate themselves to the cause of unity, integrity and universal brotherhood.

"To spread Swamiji's vision and ideals of character building among our youth, we are organising 'Vivek Chetana Utsav' throughout the state from January 10."

The state government has organised a special programme, 'Milan Utsav, 2016', at Netaji Indoor Stadium.

Pakistani ghazal maestro Ghulam Ali will perform at the event on Tuesday.

IANS