Swami Vivekananda

Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902) popularised Vedanta in the West and reformed Hinduism in India. He also inspired the mass movement that made India a modern nation. In showcasing his life and work, this Reader balances the two main aspects of his life: the religious and the secular, the spiritual and the practical, the devotional and the rational. Included here are the most significant and representative texts from every major genre and phase — selections from his speeches, essays, letters, poems, translations, conversations, and interviews — arranged for easy reading and reference. With a scholarly Introduction highlighting his contemporary relevance, separate section introductions and a detailed biographical Chronology, this volume provides a rare insight into one of India’s greatest minds.This volume will interest scholars and students of modern Indian history, religion, literature, and philosophy as well as general readers.

‘This Reader brings together some important writings from Swami Vivekananda’s prolific output along with a scholarly assessment. In editing this volume Paranjape has done a great service to the academic community and broader public.’ — Gavin Flood, Professor of Hindu Studies and Comparative Religion, University of Oxford, Academic Director, Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies‘This anthology, well-organized with a general introduction along with helpful section introductions, is . . . indispensable. All those interested in questions of religion and science as well as modern Indian identity will treasure it.’ — Stephen Phillips, Professor of Philosophy and Asian Studies, University of Texas at Austin ‘Paranjape brilliantly succeeds in . . . making available Vivekananda for further modern academic scrutiny.’ — A. Raghuramaraju, Professor of Philosophy, University of Hyderabad ‘This elegant selection of passages from the magnificent body of work produced by Swami Vivekananda helps give the full picture of his genius . . . Professor Paranjape’s book serves to clarify and amplify this important voice, showing Vivekananda’s ongoing relevance in the 21st century.’ — Chris Key Chapple, Doshi Professor of Indic and Comparative Theology, Department of Theological Studies Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles

Makarand R. Paranjape is Chairperson and Professor of English at the Centre for English Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.