[GHHF] Students learned about Sister Nivedita, her respect for Hindu culture, spirituality and Gurus.
Margaret Elizabeth Noble was born in Dunganon, North Ireland, in 1867. From childhood, she was a bright and sharp-witted young woman. However, losing her father at a young age led her to take up the profession of a teacher at just seventeen to support her family. She earned a reputation as an excellent educator. Although she was involved in church services at the time, her selfless nature of serving all denominations without distinction did not align with the narrow-mindedness of the local church authorities. This left her feeling dejected.
The void in her life was partially filled by the teachings of Buddha. Later, in 1893, she met Swami Vivekananda at a friend's house in London. Margaret was captivated by Swamiji's brilliant answers on Hindu philosophical topics such as the Self (Ātman), the Supreme Self (Paramātman), and Reincarnation. She immediately became his devoted follower, meticulously wrote down all his lectures, and was instrumental in giving a written form to Vivekananda's message.
At Swamiji's invitation, Margaret sacrificed her comfortable life and arrived in Calcutta on January 28, 1898. On March 25, 1898, at the Belur Math temple, amidst prayers of 'Asato Ma Sadgamaya', Swami Vivekananda placed 'Vibhuti' (sacred ash) on her forehead, initiated her as a Brahmacharini (novice nun), and proclaimed her 'Nivedita' (The Dedicated One). Holy Mother Sarada Devi also accepted her as her own daughter.
Swamiji commanded that if women are educated, those cultural values would be instilled in the family, laying the foundation for the nation's future. Hence, Nivedita started a Girls' School in her own house on November 11, 1898. Furthermore, even though she did not know Bengali, she worked hard to learn it and taught lessons in that language to emphasize the importance of the mother tongue. She insisted that Rabindranath Tagore's daughters also be taught in the Indian method rather than in English.
She strongly opposed the British government's oppression of India and the injustice done to Indians (e.g., the humiliation faced by J.C. Bose in England). She wrote numerous articles for various journals, fiercely criticizing the brutal British rule. She guided revolutionary heroes like Bhupendranath Dutta and Aurobindo Ghosh. Her patriotism was evident when she promoted the use of Swadeshi (indigenous) goods, even personally selling them on a pushcart.
She stood by scientist J.C. Bose during the humiliation he faced in Britain, correcting his research papers for five years and ensuring they were published. She worked with him to establish a research center. The seeds she sowed to boost the self-confidence and self-respect of Indian scientists can be considered the reason why India is leading in the field of knowledge today.
With the belief that "it is her great fortune to serve this land," and a deep conviction that the world would awaken through the rise of India, she worked relentlessly. Although she passed away on October 13, 1911, Aurobindo Ghosh described her, saying, "She was a flame of fire that spread through all walks of life in our country."
Teacher Tasks
Discussion After the Story (Analysis):
● How did Margaret, despite losing her father at a young age, take up the teaching profession to support her family? (Discuss responsibility and courage.)
● How did Sister Nivedita emphasize the importance of the mother tongue? (Discuss why it is important to respect one's mother tongue.)
● What was the patriotism behind Nivedita helping revolutionaries and scientists like J.C. Bose? (Discuss serving the nation through education, science, and technology.)
Expression of Thought (Creativity):
● Swadeshi Day: Children should talk about the Swadeshi goods (products made in India) they have and encourage their use.
● Birthday Gift for Nivedita: Children should prepare a short poem or slogan about women's education or patriotism as a birthday gift for Nivedita.
Practical Action (Implementation):
● The Offering of Help (Sahāya Nivēdana): This week, children should choose one task at home or school that they really dislike and complete it selflessly (without expecting any result or reward).
● Mother Tongue Pledge: Make a resolve every morning: "This week, I will speak clearly and proudly in my mother tongue at home and wherever possible."
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