Narendra Modi Inaugurates Swami Vivekananda Cultural Youth Centre in Mysuru

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Youth Centre, also known as Viveka Smaraka, in Mysuru, Karnataka, on August 1, 2026. The memorial is situated at the site where Swami Vivekananda stayed in November 1892, prior to his historic address in Chicago. Built and managed by Ramakrishna Ashrama with support from the Indian and Karnataka governments, the 81,000-square-foot facility includes a 4-D immersive museum, a library, yoga and meditation halls, and an amphitheatre.

During his address, Modi credited the strength of India's youth for the country's growth as the world's third-largest startup ecosystem and second-largest mobile phone manufacturer. He highlighted advancements in semiconductor manufacturing and digital solutions as evidence of this progress. He further emphasized the National Education Policy's role in preparing youth for the 21st century, citing the expansion of medical education to 823 colleges.

Modi described the center as a hub for spiritual learning and a pilgrimage site intended to instill a "Nation First" ethos. He was received by Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot. Following the ceremony, where he received a marble statue of Vivekananda, the Prime Minister visited the Ramakrishna Ashrama School before returning to New Delhi.