Book Reviews,  Rupa Publishers

#Review: Living The Vivekananda Way by Ananya A. and Nikhil Y.

Living the Vivekananda Way
Authors: Ananya Awasthi & Nikhil Yadav
Publisher: Rupa Publications
Rating: 5/5

This book sets itself an ambitious task: to revisit Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and show why they remain vital in our fragmented, fast-paced world. What struck me immediately is that it doesn’t confine itself to biography. Instead, it interprets his ideas as a living, practical guide, weaving philosophy into the challenges of contemporary life.

The strength of the book lies in its clarity. Vivekananda’s messages on fearlessness, unity, and compassion are distilled into reflections that feel surprisingly current. In an age of rising materialism and social divides, the emphasis on self-reliance and holistic well-being resonates strongly. I found the sections on applying his call for strength and inner balance particularly relevant to the anxieties of modern living.

At the same time, the writing can feel a little reverential, occasionally bordering on idealistic. Readers who are looking for critical engagement with Vivekananda’s ideas may find the tone too unidimensional—it celebrates rather than interrogates. A few more contemporary case studies or practical anecdotes might have added greater depth.

Nevertheless, the book succeeds in reminding us that Vivekananda’s vision is not a relic of the past. It is a compass—pointing towards resilience, unity, and a spiritual grounding sorely needed in today’s world.

Find this book here.