Leaders Pay Tribute to Eknath Ranade on His Death Anniversary

New Delhi, August 22: On the death anniversary of Eknath Ranade, a senior propagandist of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the renowned architect of the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, several leaders paid their respects.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari shared a post on the social media platform ‘X’, stating, “On the death anniversary of the esteemed Eknath Ranade, the architect of the world-famous Vivekananda Rock Memorial, I pay my humble tribute.”

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary also expressed his condolences on social media, writing, “I respectfully salute the senior propagandist of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Eknath Ranade, on his death anniversary. His life dedicated to national service and social awakening serves as an inspiring example of commitment and discipline. His contributions to strengthening the organization and expanding national consciousness will always be remembered.”

Bihar Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha posted on ‘X’, saying, “On the death anniversary of the great Karmayogi Shri Eknath Ranade, the senior propagandist of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the architect of the world-renowned Vivekananda Rock Memorial, I offer my heartfelt respects. His dedication to the nation and society, organizational skills, and spirit of service will continue to inspire us all.”

BJP Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Dinesh Sharma noted on social media, “In 1962, Eknath Ranade became the All India Intellectual Chief. In 1963, the centenary of Swami Vivekananda’s birth was celebrated. During this time, he was entrusted with the task of constructing a memorial at the rock in Kanyakumari where Swami Ji meditated. Despite significant challenges posed by the growing Christian influence in the South and obstacles from state and central governments, he patiently resolved every issue.”

Dr. Sharma further elaborated, “The memorial required substantial funding. As Swami Vivekananda is an ideal for youth, Eknath devised a plan that garnered financial support from schools, students, state governments, local bodies, and wealthy individuals across the country. The inauguration of the memorial took place in 1970 with President Varahagiri Venkata Giri. In 1972, he redirected the activities of the Vivekananda Kendra towards service, training youth and sending them to tribal areas of the country. This work continues to this day, along with the publication of numerous books and magazines from the center.”

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde shared a post on ‘X’, stating, “On the death anniversary of the esteemed Eknath Ranade, the chief architect of the magnificent Vivekananda Rock Memorial amidst the tumultuous waves of the sea in Kanyakumari, I offer my deepest respects. His selfless life and commitment to ‘Nation First’ will continuously inspire us to move forward on the path of duty.”

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