Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Swami Vivekananda on his birth anniversary, saying he was a “personal inspiration”.

“On his birth anniversary, I bow to Swami Vivekananda. He is a personal inspiration. His thoughts and ideals have influenced me deeply,” the prime minister said in a statement.

“Swami Vivekananda is revered as one of the most prolific thinkers and a guiding light who took India’s message to the entire world,” Modi added.

“Let us pledge to leave no stone unturned to integrate our youth in India`s progress and ensure youth-led development across the nation.”

Modi also urged people to share the thoughts of Swami Vivekananda that have influenced them, saying he would retweet some of them Monday evening.