The inaugural function of the joint Bangladesh-India Celebration of the 150th Birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda was celebrated at the Main Auditorium, Bangladesh National Museum, Dhaka at 10.30 AM on January 12, 2013.
The Discussion was chaired by Swami Ameyanandaji Mj, Ramakrishna Mission, Dhaka, while the chief guest was Dr. Dipu Moni, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Mr. Pankaj Saran, High Commissioner of India in Bangladesh and Swami Balabhadrananda, Assistant Secretary, Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math, India were the guests of honour.
In her speech Dr. Dipu Moni said, “For the development especially of South Asia the ideal of harmony of Swami Vivekananda is to be practised. His concern for the poor and the distressed is highly appreciated by all.”
Swami Balabhadrananda, a special guest, in his speech pointed out three things said by Swamiji for making every individual and every nation great, these are: conviction of the power of goodness, absence of jealousy and suspicion, and helping all who are trying to be and do good.
The speakers discussed the life and ideals of Swami Vivekananda along with the impact of his message and life in the present social context. The auditorium was over-crowded by the audience the number was around two thousand. The program was conducted one hour more. Admirers of Swamiji from all walks of life from all over Bangladesh attended the function. There were recitation from the works of Swami Vivekananda and musical soiree by the eminent singers of Bangladesh. Snacks had been served to all of the audience. A procession from the site of function ended at the feet of Swamiji’s statue at Jagannath Hall of Dhaka University. All ended peacefully and joyfully.