The conference began on 11th September, 1893. Swamiji had got accepted as a delegate after a lot of persuasion. The organisers were still doubtful about their decision to allow him. He was allotted only a few minutes to present his views during the zero hour.
The other delegates were happy that Swamiji was not among the main speakers.
At zero hour his name was called out. He gracefully got on the stage and faced the mike. His magnetic gaze, impressive figure and glowing face made positive impression on the audience.
Swami Vivekananda’s spoke, “My brothers and sisters of America…”
A thunderous applause greeted his endearing address. It proved a shot in his arm. All the hardships he faced in America were forgotten. Spontaneous flow of words came from his heart as he resumed speaking. “The religions do not teach hatred. Nor do they divide people. A religion brings hearts closer. Those who think otherwise do not really understand religion. Religion is another name of love, compassion, sympathy, mercy brotherhood and mutual respect. The man is born to create, to create with love. We should not make religions an excuse for destruction, wars or expansion by force. A religion must teach to live and let live. If religions are used for confrontation the human race will go astray. The coming generation, will fall in the dark hole of mistrust instead of progressing towards the light.
Dear brothers and sisters, I represent Sanatan Hinduism of India. This religion of the land across the seven seas dares to think of the material and the spiritual upliftment of the entire human race. Our basic aim is good of every human being. Mine is the most ancient, seasoned, mature and generous enough to believe in coexistence. There is no place for bigotry and narrow thinking in my religion.’’
When Swami Vivekananda finished his short address the people stood up to give him a standing ovation. His address was so appreciated that the organisers were forced to include him in the list of main speakers.
When he left the stage, the newsmen from USA and Europe mobbed him. The questions came in a barrage. Swamiji gave his answers one by one. He had lucid answers to all the questions. The success of his address was proving an elixir for him.
The next day, the newspapers printed his speech prominently.
Later, in his main address he elaborated in detail the points mentioned in his earlier brief introductory speech.
The newspapers carried editorial comments on Swamiji’s philosophy. He gave many more impromptu speeches in gatherings and gave talks to groups of people. The World Religions Conference became a seminar on Vivekananda’s thoughts. This made him a much sought after figure, respected and loved.
In the next morning, well known scholar of Britain Mr. Goodwin came to meet him. He was so impressed that he decided to give up whatever he was doing and serve Swamiji’s mission. He helped Swamiji in planning his campaign. He suggested that Swamiji must propagate his philosophy in the west to get the build up which would eventually help in India. Whatever Swamiji spoke Mr. Goodwin recorded it in shorthand. Later he got them published in magazines, and newspapers. Swami Vivekananda got world wide publicity.
He stayed in USA for a year during which he converted many big named to his philosophy. They became dedicated members of Ramakrishna Mission. They were names like Madam Mary Laise, Miss Baldo, Dr. Landberg, Dr. Street, Prof. O’Rile, singer Madam Kelve, the millionairs Legattes, Miss J. McLloyd etc. etc.
Constant touring and speaking affected his health. His admirers arranged a complete rest for him in a cabin on island in Lawrence river. He discussed philosophical matters with his close friends. These discussions were later published in book form under the title ‘Inspired Talk’.
At the end of his forced holiday he left USA for Europe. He had a pile of invitations from there. He landed in France and met leading scholars.
In Britain he was met by anti-Imperialist politicians. Swamiji talked against British rule in India. He speeches were well received. More people became sympathetic to the case of self-rule for Indians. Mr. Maxmuller openly supported Swamiji. He was the famed professor of philosophy in Oxford and an ardent fan of Indian culture. Swamiji thoughts so inspired Miss Muller, Miss Nobel, Mr. Sturdy and Sabiors that they decided to dedicate their lives to Swamiji’s cause.
From Britain, Swamiji paid a visit to Switzerland. On way back he met Professor Doyce in Germany. Swamiji surprised Mr. Doyce by reading his mammoth treatise in barely half an hour. The book usually took months to go through.
It was now time for Swamiji to return to his roots. He had been away for 4 years.
On 3rd Dec., 1896 his admirers in Britain organised a grand farewell party in the famous Piccadily Hall of London. In mid January, 1847, he boarded a India bound ship and sailed for home.
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