‘Run for Nation’ held

Vijayawada: A ‘Run for Nation’ was organized here on Wednesday by Swamy Vivekananda 150th Birth Anniversary Celebrations Committee to mark the 120 years of his speech at World Parliament of Religion in Chicago. Chess champion Koneru Hampi flagged off the three-km run from Indira Gandhi Municipal stadium to Raghaviah Park where Vivekananda statue was garlanded by Swamy Saivyananda, industrialist Gokaraju Gangaraju, Hampi and others.

Addressing the gathering, Matha Siva Chaitnya said that Vivekananda inspired many freedoms fighters to lean towards Hinduism and spirituality. Apart from being a spiritualist, he was also known for his patriotism, she added. Editor of ‘Andhra Bhoomi’ Telugu daily MVR Sastry said that Vivekananda was the standing pole behind escalation of Hinduism in the world. He shared a few incidents that occurred before Swamy’s speech in Chicago with the youngsters. President of Ramakrishna Mission Swamy Saivyananda opined that Vivekananda inspired many foreigners to become followers of Hinduism through his speech.

Bhimavaram (West Godavari): Commemorating Swami Vivekananda’s 150th birth anniversary, 10,000 students took part in a run here on Wednesday. Representatives of various political parties and prominent personalities of the town were present on the occasion. Speaking at the programme, they said Swami Vivekananda’s ideals are relevant for the present day’s youth and asked them to follow the path shown by him. The students raised slogans in support of united Andhra Pradesh in the event. Students dressed as Swami Vivekananda were the cynosure of all eyes.