Legacy of 125 years of Swami Vivekananda in the Bay Area

Interfaith talks launch year-long celebration

India Post News Service

BERKELEY, CA: Distinguished leaders from major religions of the world will gather at the First Unitarian Church of Oakland to share their insights on harmony of religions. This inaugural event will be held at 2pm on Saturday Feb. 22, 2025 at the First Unitarian Church of Oakland in Oakland, CA.

The interfaith congregation marks the 125^th anniversary of Swami Vivekananda’s arrival in Oakland where he delivered 8 lectures in this very church and from the same pulpit and chair, around which all will gather to celebrate.

Swami Vivekananda was a renowned 19^th century Indian philosopher, spiritual leader, humanitarian, and instrumental in introducing the principles of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western World. He is best known for his influential speech at the 1893 Parliament of World’s Religions in Chicago where he advocated harmony of religions, self-realization, service, and spirituality.

His legacy continues to inspire millions globally.

“Swami Vivekananda graced the Bay Area with his powerful presence, leaving an indelible mark on every heart he touched. During this period in 97 days, in seven different locations, he delivered more than 73 lectures that resonated through public halls, churches, and private houses, awakening souls and transforming lives.  Let us celebrate this legacy with fervor and immerse ourselves in his teachings” said Swami Prasannatmananda, Swami-in-Charge of Vedanta Society Berkeley.

Upcoming Year-Long Celebratory Events:

• Swami Vivekananda: Sacred Wisdom for the Digital Age – A Discussion with Prof. Jeffery Long and Swami Tyagananda – 7pm, 26^th April, 2025 in India Community Center, Milpitas
• Musical Tribute: A ticketed concert blending Indian classical and fusion musical traditions – 3pm, 26^th July, 2025 at Center for Performing Arts, San Jose
• 2 Spiritual Retreats with Monks of the Ramakrishna Order – 10.30am on 4^th and 5^th July, 2025 at Berkeley and San Ramon respectively
• Book launches: The Gift Unopened: A New American Revolution by Eleanor Stark and ‘A Guide Book for Swami Vivekananda Pilgrimage’ – October 2025
• Vivekananda Pilgrimage Guided Bus Tour: Tour of Bay Area sites associated with Swami Vivekananda’s visit in 1900 – January 2026
• Closing Ceremony – 21^st Feb 2026 at First United Church of Oakland, Oakland

The inaugural event and all other events, excepting the musical tribute, are free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.vedantaberkeley.org or contact Adhirai Marimuthu at 510-848-8862.

Founded in 1939, Vedanta Society Berkeley is a non-profit, non-sectarian society dedicated to helping individuals realize their full human potential while fostering harmony and inclusivity for all, regardless of caste, creed, color, gender, religion, or region.

Also Read: PM Modi remembers Swami Vivekananda’s iconic 1893 speech in Chicago