Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 22 (UNI) The newly launched book 'Influence of Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Movement on Gandhi,' written by Dr Nikhil Yadav, offers a systematic examination of the references made by Mahatma Gandhi to these spiritual leaders across various media, emphasising how their teachings influenced his personal and public life.
Speaking about his book, Dr. Nikhil Yadav, a prominent scholar of the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda movement, said the new scholarly work is shedding light on the profound and often overlooked influence of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda on Mahatma Gandhi.
"The booklet delves into how Gandhi despite never meeting these two spiritual titans was deeply inspired by their teachings, which he often cited in speeches, letters, and discussions on various issues," he added.
The book explores the spiritual underpinnings of Gandhi’s philosophy and how the ideas of Ramakrishna and Vivekananda played a critical role in shaping his moral and political convictions.
Dr. Yadav’s research draws primarily from the 'Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi,' offering a fresh perspective on the intersections between Gandhi’s thought and the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda movement.
He highlights numerous instances where Gandhi referenced the teachings of Swami Vivekananda and Sri Ramakrishna, showcasing their significant impact on his worldview.
Meanwhile, several distinguished figures expressed their support for Dr. Yadav’s work and praised the book’s timely relevance in today’s world.
“Dr. Nikhil Yadav has penned a scholarly booklet that focuses on the profound influence of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda on the life and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi. I do hope that this booklet will inspire one and all, especially our younger generation, to build a strong and vibrant India. My heartiest congratulations to Dr. Yadav for his labour of love,” said Swami Sarvalokananda, Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission.
“Anyone interested in understanding how Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda, Ma Sarada Devi, and Sister Nivedita influenced the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi should read this book. Dr. Nikhil Yadav has provided the context for every reference to them by Gandhiji. His thoughtful organisation makes it accessible for scholars and readers alike," said Nivedita Raghunath Bhide, Vice-President of the Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari.
“The author connects the three giants of modern India brilliantly. The young generation will benefit immensely from this book,” said Dr. Arvind Gupta, Director of the Vivekananda International Foundation.
In this book, Dr Nikhil Yadav meticulously documents how Gandhi not only read the works of Swami Vivekananda and Sri Ramakrishna but also internalised their core philosophies, which shaped his approach to truth, nonviolence, and social reform, Dr. Arvind Gupta said.
The book offers a systematic examination of the references made by Gandhi to these spiritual leaders across various media, emphasising how their teachings influenced his personal and public life, he pointed out.
"Gandhi’s deep respect for Swami Vivekananda, in particular, is evident through the numerous instances where people writing to him would quote the Swami’s words. The book highlights the cultural and spiritual resonance Vivekananda’s messages held, even among ordinary people who shared his ideas with Gandhi," he added.
"Dr. Yadav’s exploration of these influences provides a nuanced understanding of Gandhi’s thought and invites readers to reimagine the interconnectedness of spirituality, social action, and national identity that formed the foundation of modern India."
Commenting on the author of the book, Dr. Arvind Gupta said "Nikhil Yadav is a dedicated scholar of Indian culture and heritage, with a specific focus on the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda movement. He currently serves as the Youth Head for the Vivekananda Kendra North Zone, overseeing regions including Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand."
Dr. Nikhil Yadav holds a Ph.D. from the School of Social Science at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and has previously completed a Master’s in Ancient Indian History from the University of Delhi.
"He has a passionate interest in history, philosophy, yoga, and meditation, with a special focus on how these disciplines shape contemporary Indian thought. His academic background and personal dedication to the teachings of Ramakrishna and Vivekananda provide the foundation for his insights into Gandhi’s spiritual and philosophical evolution."
The launch of “The Influence of Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Movement on Gandhi” marks an important contribution to contemporary scholarship on Gandhi and the spiritual movements that shaped his life.
"The book serves as a valuable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the deeper philosophical currents that influenced the father of the nation," Dr. Arvind Gupta said.
UNI DS ARN