The Dharmic Journey of Svâmî Vivekânanda: From the Apostle of Hinduism Universalism to Hinduism as the Religion Eternal

Description

A keynote lecture by George M. Williams at the 1997 Simla Conference. This article explores the significant role of Svâmî Vivekânanda at the World's Parliament of Religions, detailing his transformation from a proponent of Hindu universalism to a defender of Hinduism as an eternal religion. Williams examines the creation of Vivekânanda's legend, his mission to preserve and reform Hinduism, and the complex interplay between his teachings and the religious and cultural contexts of India and the West. The paper provides a deep dive into Vivekânanda's influence on inter-religious dialogue and the defense of Indian spirituality against Western criticism.