Swami Vivekananda (1863â1902) popularised Vedanta in the West and reformed Hinduism in India. He also inspired the mass movement that made India a modern nation. In showcasing his life and work this Reader balances the two main aspects of his life: the religious and the secular the spiritual and the practical the devotional and the rational. Included here are the most significant and representative texts from every major genre and phase â selections from his speeches essays letters poems translations conversations and interviews â arranged for easy reading and reference. With a scholarly Introduction highlighting his contemporary relevance separate section introductions and a detailed biographical Chronology this volume provides a rare insight into one of Indiaâs greatest minds. This volume will interest scholars and students of modern Indian history religion literature and philosophy as well as general readers. . Language: English