Swami Vivekananda - Pasadena, California - 1900

A profoundly inspiring image of Swami Vivekananda, captured in Pasadena, California, in 1900. During this crucial period of his second visit to the West, Swamiji tirelessly propagated the universal truths of Vedanta. In Southern California, he delivered illuminating discourses at venues such as Hotel Green and the Shakespeare Club, attracting a devoted following eager to learn the principles of Raja Yoga and practical spirituality. He also found respite and connection with nature during excursions to places like Mt. Lowe with his students. This photograph evokes the spiritual gravitas and compassionate presence of the great monk as he solidified the foundations of Vedanta in the Western world, guiding countless souls towards inner peace and self-realization.