Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led political leaders in paying homage to Swami Vivekananda on 4 July, the 123rd anniversary of the philosopher-monk’s death. In a statement posted early Friday, Modi said Vivekananda’s ideas “ignite pride and confidence in our cultural heritage” and urged citizens to follow the path of service and compassion outlined by the 19th-century reformer. Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and several state leaders, including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, also issued tributes, describing Vivekananda as a guiding force for India’s youth and a champion of the country’s spiritual renaissance. The commemorations underscore the enduring political and cultural resonance of Vivekananda, whose 1893 address at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago remains a touchstone for India’s global outreach.