Swami Vivekananda - Posed Portrait - Oakland, USA (February 1900)

This sacred image depicts Swami Vivekananda, the illumined Vedantic teacher, standing with serene composure during his second visit to the Western world, specifically in Oakland, California, in February 1900. Dressed in his iconic ochre monastic robes and turban, he exudes profound spiritual dignity and quiet strength. During this period in the Bay Area, Swamiji delivered numerous inspiring lectures in San Francisco, Oakland, and Alameda, systematically introducing the profound principles of Vedanta and Yoga to eager American audiences. His presence marked a crucial phase in establishing permanent Vedanta centers in the West, fostering a deeper understanding of universal spirituality. This photograph beautifully captures the poise and wisdom of the monk who tirelessly worked to bridge Eastern wisdom and Western thought, inspiring countless souls towards spiritual awakening and selfless service.