स्वामी विवेकानन्द को भारत से अत्यधिक प्रेम था; उनके समय में या भारतवर्ष में जन्म लिए महान् लोगों के प्रति उनके हृदय में महती श्रद्धा थी। अपने व्याख्यानों में वे उन व्यक्तियों का उल्लेख किया करते थे। महाराष्ट्र के उत्थान में महत्त्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाने वाले तथा महाराष्ट्र के हिन्दू धर्म, आध्यात्मिकता व स्वाभिमान को पुनरुज्जीवित करने वाले छत्रपति शिवाजी, उनके गुरु समर्थ रामदास स्वामी और संत तुकाराम महाराज आदि अनेक सन्त-महात्माओं के चरित्र के घटनावली का उल्लेख उन्होंने अपने भाषणों में किया था।
छत्रपति शिवाजी महाराज के विषय में स्वामीजी ने अपने जो महत्त्वपूर्ण व्यक्तव्य व्यक्त किये थे, उसको उनके एक प्रिय शिष्य
डॉ. एम्. सी. नन्जुन्दा राव ने लिपिबद्ध किया था। वे विचार मूल अँग्रेजी में ‘वेदान्त-केसरी’ नामक मासिक (ई.स.१९१४-१९१५) में धारावाहिक रूप से प्रकाशित हुए थे। लेखक से वार्तालाप के प्रसंग में स्वामीजी ने इतिहास के ऐसे कई महत्त्वपूर्ण पृष्ठों को उजागर किया है जो विदेशी इतिहासकारों के द्वारा अपने स्वार्थ की सिद्धि हेतु विकृत कर दिये गये थे। प्रस्तुत पुस्तक में स्वामीजी के द्वारा छत्रपति शिवाजी के जीवनवृत्त सम्बन्धी तथ्य एक नये रूप में हमारे समक्ष प्रस्तुत हुए हैं। इसमें
स्वामीजी की इतिहास में गहरी पैठ दर्शनीय है। यही लेखमाला रामकृष्ण मिशन विवेकानन्द आश्रम, रायपुर द्वारा प्रकाशित हिन्दी मासिक पत्रिका ‘विवेक-ज्योति’ में धारावाहिक रूप में प्रकाशित हुई थी। इस लेखमाला को हम पुस्तक रूप में प्रकाशित कर रहे हैं।
शिवाजी महाराज के व्यक्तित्व के विकास में उनकी माँ जीजाबाई का महत्त्वपूर्ण योगदान था, इसका केवल स्वामीजी ने निर्देश किया था। शिवाजी महाराज अपनी माँ तथा गुरु की आज्ञा का पालन करना अपना महान् कर्तव्य समझते थे।
"Arise Awake and Stop not til the goal is reached"
Vivekananda left a body of philosophical works (see Vivekananda's complete works). His books (compiled from lectures given around the world) on the four Yogas (Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga) are very influential and still seen as fundamental texts for anyone interested in the Hindu practice of Yoga. His letters are of great literary and spiritual value. He was also considered a very good singer and a poet.By the time of his death, He had composed many songs including his favorite Kali the Mother. He used humor for his teachings and was also an excellent cook. His language is very free flowing. His own Bengali writings stand testimony to the fact that he believed that words - spoken or written - should be for making things easier to understand rather than show off the speaker or writer's knowledge.
Swami Vivekananda [ স্বামী বিবেকানন্দ ] (1863 – 1902), born Narendranath Datta, was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author, religious teacher, and the chief disciple of the Indian mystic Ramakrishna. He was a key figure in the introduction of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, and bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion.
Born in Calcutta, Bengal Presidency, British India (present-day Kolkata, West Bengal, India)
With numerous incidents in the Indian history, there are certain factions which always endure to distort the facts to suit their narratives and keep the indigenous values at lowest tone and tenor. As they have seen triumph these many days in various aspects to keep the truth not accessible to the masses. Among those clubs such are the cults from the barren lands, whose religion is “Terrorism” and it is the only form of expression they have expertise.
Swami Vivekananda, in his discourse exposes these despotisms and treachery against Chatrapati Shivaji and his subjects.
These accounts as viewed by Swami lucidly builds up the grit & valor of Maharaj complementing his secular activity with his spiritual inclination, which he imbibed from his Guru Ramdas and his becoming of the 'Shivaji the Great' gives us an experience to understand profoundness of his nature.
"Shivaji The Great as viewed by Swami Vivekananda" delves into the life and legacy of Chatrapati Shivaji, a revolutionary leader known for his valor, fearlessness, energy, and devotion to his motherland and Dharma. The book captures Swami Vivekananda's admiration for Shivaji, highlighting his qualities as an ideal king, a nation-builder, and a servant to his subjects. Shivaji's commitment to protecting his Dharma against the onslaught of invaders is a central theme, showcasing his secular and spiritual inclinations influenced by his Guru Ramdas. The book, as narrated by Dr. M.C. Nanjunda Rao, also addresses the historical distortions by certain factions and presents a clear picture of Shivaji's greatness.
What I Liked in This Book Insightful Perspective: Swami Vivekananda's views on Shivaji offer a profound understanding of his character and legacy. The admiration and respect Vivekananda holds for Shivaji are evident, making the book an inspiring read. Historical Clarity: The book addresses the distortions in historical narratives, providing a more accurate and respectful portrayal of Shivaji's contributions and achievements. Blend of Secular and Spiritual: The narrative beautifully captures Shivaji's balance between his secular duties as a king and his spiritual commitments, highlighting the influence of his Guru Ramdas. Inspirational Content: The qualities of Shivaji—valor, fearlessness, devotion, and humanitarianism—are presented in a way that inspires readers to embody these traits in their own lives. Narrative Style: The lucid writing style makes complex historical events and character traits accessible and engaging for the readers. Conclusion "Shivaji The Great as viewed by Swami Vivekananda" is a compelling and insightful account of one of India's most revered leaders. Through Swami Vivekananda's perspective, readers gain a deeper appreciation of Shivaji's multifaceted legacy as a warrior, king, and spiritual figure. The book not only honors Shivaji's contributions to Indian history but also serves as a source of inspiration for future generations. It is a must-read for those interested in Indian history, leadership, and the enduring spirit of Dharma.
Short overview of the views of Swami Vivekananda. Biggest issue with the book is stated by author himself. He wrote the book pure on memory of an conversation the writer had with Swamiji, so no direct notes or recordings of the meeting. The question is how reliable the information is or is it based upon other sources than Swamiji.