New Delhi: Saumitra Khan, a member of the BJP from West Bengal, caused a stir when he referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the "present day avtar of Swami Vivekananda." Saumitra asserted that PM Modi has, like Vivekananda, dedicated his life to the motherland through his work, reported news agency ANI.






On Thursday, the 161st anniversary of Swami Vivekananda's birth, colorful rallies were held throughout West Bengal, and prayer sessions were held at various RKM centers.


People were seen hurrying into the museum that was housed inside his birthplace in north Kolkata, which was restored by RKM a few years ago, to pay floral respects.


On the occasion, a number of clubs and social organisations held rallies and cultural events in various parts of Bengal. Traditional-dressed men and women walked the streets of Kolkata alongside vibrant tableaus depicting spiritual genius.


On Facebook, Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister, paid tribute to the great monk.


Banerjee wrote one of Vivekananda's quotes as a tribute, posting a picture of him alongside pictures of Belur Math.


She wrote in Bengali, "God can be found in those who serve humanity, in different forms manifested before us."


PM Modi, president Murmu Pays Tributes To Vivekananda


President Droupadi Murmu paid tributes to Vivekananda on his birth anniversary. "My tributes to Swami Vivekananda on his birth anniversary! An iconic personality who combined spirituality and patriotism, he propagated Indian values globally. His life and teachings continue to inspire youth to follow their dreams and achieve greater goals," the President tweeted.






Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Swami Vivekananda's great ideals and ideas will continue to guide the countrymen on Thursday, the anniversary of his birth.


On the 160th anniversary of the famous spiritual figure's birth, Modi tweeted, "His life, patriotism, spiritualism, and dedication will always inspire."






Modi has frequently cited Vivekananda as a significant influence.


To commemorate the occasion, he will also open the National Youth Festival on Thursday in Karnataka.


(With PTI Inputs)