On January 26, 1901, Swami Vivekananda, in a letter to his disciple Mrs. Sara Chapman Bull, expressed his intention to take his mother on a pilgrimage to Kamakhya Dham, fulfilling her greatest wish. Swamiji's deep sense of duty towards his mother is evident in his words: "I have brought only misery to my people all my life. I am trying at least to fulfill this one wish of hers." This pilgrimage marked a significant chapter in Swami Vivekananda's life, intertwining personal devotion and spiritual mission.
Upon arriving at Kamakhya, Swami Vivekananda stayed for three days. During his stay, he wrote a letter dated April 17, in which he praised the hospitality and dedication of the priests, Shivakanta and Lakshmikanta Pandas, at the Kamakhya Temple. Swamiji's admiration for their selflessness and service is captured in his words: "They are men who help many and are satisfied with the least. I can unhesitatingly recommend them to the Hindu public visiting this holy shrine."
After his stay at Kamakhya Dham, Swamiji's engagement with the local community continued through his addresses at four significant meetings, including Sonaram High School and the newly established Cotton College. His speeches covered crucial topics such as casteism, transmigration of the soul, Vedanta in Indian life, and the deliberation of Upanishadic verses. These discourses left a lasting impact on the attendees, reflecting Swamiji's profound understanding and vision for India's spiritual and social awakening.
Swami Vivekananda's journey in Assam extended to Shillong, the then capital, where he faced the challenges of difficult hilly terrain. His visit to Shillong was marked by a meeting with Sir Henry Cotton, who was eager to meet the renowned "Cyclonic monk from India." Despite his ill health, Swamiji delivered a compelling speech at the Quinton Memorial Hall on April 27, 1901, at the request of Rai Saheb Kailash Chandra Das and other prominent citizens. The packed audience listened as Swamiji emphasized the essence of religion as realization, the supreme importance of serving humanity, the critical role of education in national progress, self-manifestation as the true indicator of humanity, and the need to link spiritual lessons with vocational education and training.
Swami Vivekananda's visit to Assam was not just a pilgrimage but a journey of enlightenment and inspiration. His deep connection with the people, his profound discourses, and his appreciation of the natural beauty of Assam continue to resonate, reflecting his enduring legacy in the region.
