Disciple of Ramakrishna. At the 1893 Parliament of World Religions in Chicago, he opened his first speech with “Sisters and Brothers of America” and received a two-minute standing ovation from a hall of strangers. His lectures across the U.S. and Europe brought Advaita Vedanta, Yoga, and Karma Yoga to Western audiences who had no prior frame for them.
Founded the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, which continues his dual commitment to contemplative practice and social service.