Founder of Ramkrishna Mission and Belur Math in Calcutta, Swami Vivekananda was the monk who introduced Indian philosophies of vedanta and yoga to the western world. He is also seen as the one who raised interfaith awareness. He attended the World Parliament of Religions held in Chicago. His birthday, January 12, is celebrated as National Youth Day. The man is well-known not only in India but also around the world, today over hundred years after his death he still remains the same inspiring young monk. He passed away on July 4, 1902. It is believed that Swami predicted his own death.
Suffered 31 Ailments
‘The Monk as Man’ by well-known Bengali author Shankar states that Swamiji suffered from 31 ailments. Insomnia, migraine, malaria, diabetes, indigestion, bloodshot eyes, asthama, liver and kidney disease are some of the ailments. Vivekananda’s tireless service took a toll to his physical body.
Words of Wisdom on Health
His words of wisdom to his disciples were “Learn from my experiences. Don’t be so hard on your body and ruin your health. I have harmed mine. I have tortured it severely, and what has been the result? My body has become ruined during the best years of my life! And I am still paying for it.”
Predicted His Own Death
Swami Vivekananda predicted that he would not live beyond 40 years. He died on July 4, 1902 at the age of 39 years.
Here’s what happened on July 4, 1902
Some believe Swami Vivekananda died a natural death while others believe he attained samadhi. It is said that on July 4, 1902, he woke up early as usual, visited the chapel at Belur Math and meditated for three hours. He later, taught Sanskrit grammar and yoga philosophy, etc, to his pupils. On the same day, at 7 pm, he went to his room for meditation. He strictly asked his pupils to not disturb him. He breathed his last at 9 pm while meditating. His disciples believed he attained Samadhi and the cause of his death is the rupture of a blood vessel in his brain. The rupture was a result of brahmarandhra, piercing due to formation of a crown in his head. He was cremated on the banks of Ganges.
