HNLU Hosts 5th Swami Vivekananda Memorial Lecture; O.P. Choudhary Urges Gen Z To Step Out Of Comfort Zones
Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur, organised the 5th Swami Vivekananda Memorial Annual Lecture at its campus, reaffirming its commitment to celebrating the life, philosophy, and enduring relevance of Swami Vivekananda. The annual lecture is held as part of the University's continued efforts to commemorate Swami Vivekananda, who shared a historical connection with Raipur and whose birth anniversary is observed nationwide as National Youth Day.
Vice-Chancellor of HNLU, Prof. (Dr.) V.C. Vivekanandan, in his opening remarks, complimented the Chief Guest, stating, “In a time when success is often measured by followers, Shri O.P. Choudhary ji reminds us that real leadership is measured by service.” He added that even 123 years after Swami Vivekananda's passing, his thoughts and teachings continue to resonate with Gen Z as a source of inspiration and guidance.
The Chief Guest, O. P. Choudhary, Finance Minister of Chhattisgarh, delivered an impactful lecture on the theme “Teachings and Lessons of Swami Vivekananda for Gen Z” to a packed audience of students and faculty. He highlighted how Swami Vivekananda's short yet profoundly meaningful life continues to inspire generations of youth.
Referring to Swami Vivekananda's iconic address delivered on 18 September 1893 at the World's Parliament of Religions in Chicago, Shri Choudhary emphasised the importance of first connecting with people before effectively conveying ideas. He observed that the powerful opening of Swamiji's speech instantly captured global attention, offering a timeless lesson in communication, leadership, and persuasion for today's youth.
The Minister described Swami Vivekananda as the true ambassador of Indian culture and values, who brought India's spiritual and philosophical heritage to the global stage at a remarkably young age. Emphasising the ideals of simple living and high thinking, he urged Gen Z students to step beyond their comfort zones, embrace courage over complacency, and pursue their passions with discipline, dedication, and integrity. He also underlined the importance of a healthy and disciplined lifestyle, observing that health is the ultimate wealth.
Sharing his own journey—from studying in government institutions to becoming one of the youngest IAS officers in the country and the first IAS officer from Chhattisgarh, and later transitioning from the civil services to public life—Shri Choudhary encouraged students to explore unconventional and challenging paths with conviction and courage. He remarked that meaningful success often lies beyond the safety of the comfort zone.