Book Review

I AM A VOICE WITHOUT A FORM....Thoughts of Swami Vivekananda. By Swami Srikantananda. Published by Swami Paramarthananda, Ramakrishna Math, Domalguda, Hyderabad 500 029. 2005, Hardback, pp. 146, Rs.125.

In his message to the book, His Excellency APJ Abdul Kalam, the President of India, observes, ‘Reading I am a Voice without a Form has been a very inspiring experience.’ This is truly so. Swami Vivekananda’s eternal wisdom has timeless relevance for society–past, present and future. Swami Vivekananda’s words have the authority of scriptures and they bring hope even to those resigned to a desperate state of hopelessness.

‘I am a Voice without a Form’ elevates the mind and is an ideal companion to all, young and old, spiritual and political leaders, educationists, scientists, businessmen, economists and many others. Swami Srikantananda, the complier, has made a stunning compilation from voluminous literature on Swami Vivekananda. The book ably focuses on all aspects of Swamiji’s unique personality–a visionary, spiritual and intellectual giant, patriot, outstanding teacher, patron of art, one who inspires and elevates humanity in distress and despair and is full of tender motherly love. The compilation also enlightens the readers about the ideals of the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda tradition.

The powerful voice of Swamiji can be ‘heard’ in the book, through eleven chapters titled ‘Harmony and Peace’, ‘Science and Religion’, ‘Secret of Work’, to mention a few. The presentation is brief and precise. Each thought, presented here, guides us as to how face life, overcome distrust and disappointment, hatred, depression, and enjoy peace and harmony and live a fulfilling life.

© "The Vedanta Kesari” (November, 2006) published by Sri Ramakrishna Math, Mylapore, Chennai 600 004. Website: www.sriramakrishnamath.org. Reprinted with permission.

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