Hidayatullah National Law University hosted the 5th Swami Vivekananda Memorial Annual Lecture
“Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Let the World Hear Your Voice” — O.P. Choudhary’s
Raipur | January 8, 2026
Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur, hosted the 5th Swami Vivekananda Memorial Annual Lecture on its campus, reaffirming the university’s commitment to preserving and promoting the timeless ideals of Swami Vivekananda. The annual lecture commemorates Swami Vivekananda’s life, philosophy, and enduring relevance for India’s youth, especially as his birth anniversary is celebrated nationwide as National Youth Day.
The keynote address was delivered by Shri O. P. Choudhary, Hon’ble Finance Minister, who spoke on the theme “Teachings and Message of Swami Vivekananda for Gen Z.” Addressing a packed auditorium of students and faculty members, Shri Choudhary urged young people to step beyond their comfort zones, embrace courage over complacency, and pursue their true passions with discipline, dedication, and integrity.
Referring to Swami Vivekananda’s historic address at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago on September 18, 1893, Shri Choudhary highlighted the importance of emotionally connecting with audiences before presenting ideas. He noted that Swami Vivekananda’s powerful opening instantly captured global attention, offering timeless lessons in communication, leadership, and inspiration for today’s youth.
Describing Swami Vivekananda as a true ambassador of Indian culture and values, Shri Choudhary emphasized that despite his short life, Swami Vivekananda successfully placed India’s spiritual and philosophical heritage on the global map. He encouraged Gen Z students to prioritize health as true wealth and to adopt a disciplined lifestyle as the foundation of long-term success.
Sharing insights from his own life journey—from studying in government institutions to becoming one of India’s youngest IAS officers, the first IAS officer from Chhattisgarh, and later transitioning from civil services to public life—Shri Choudhary inspired students to confidently choose unconventional and challenging paths. He emphasized that meaningful success is often achieved outside one’s comfort zone.
Earlier, Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) V. C. Vivekanandan, in his inaugural address, praised the chief guest and remarked that at a time when success is often measured by social media followers, Shri O. P. Choudhary reminds society that true leadership is measured by service. He also noted that even 123 years after Swami Vivekananda’s passing, his teachings continue to guide and motivate the Gen Z generation.
The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Deepak Srivastava, Registrar (In-charge), HNLU, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Avinash Samal, Dean, Student Welfare. The event was coordinated by Shri Abhinav Shukla and Dr. Anita Singh (Faculty Advisor).
On the occasion, the HNLU Gazette Newsletter (Volume 3, Issue 2), published by HNLU Press, was also released. Along with HNLU students, invited students from Kalinga University actively participated in the event, making the lecture a vibrant platform for youth engagement and intellectual exchange.
