During his travel to Europe and the USA, Swamiji told the Western public about Indian culture. On the other hand, he also gained knowledge about their culture and traditions.

In this episode, we will highlight Swamiji;s thoughts on various subjects such as Indian cuisine, spices, hygiene, nutrition and  traditional cooking. He emphasized on simple food, condemned alcoholism and promoted Indian Kitchen values.

Swamiji had traveled Indian a lot and thus, inferred that there are two schools of thoughts prevailing in the country. One considers everything Western to be flawless, whole and beautiful. Other considered their own traditions, values and culture highest. 

Mrs. Wright recalls her memories of serious discussions with Swamiji. Once he, in a sway of emotions, started to shed out tears while telling about the atrocities of the British colonizers on Indian public. He also introduced American public to Ashoka, the Great. 

This episode recollects Swamiji’s conversation with Priyanath Babu. They had a very elaborate discussion on religion and faith. In another conversation, they discuss about the inter-caste marriages, uniqueness of God, etc.

Swamiji had keen interest in Indian classical and Western music. During one July evening in 1898, he suddenly started to hum a song and play it on Tanpura. On being asked by Shivanand about Western music, he expressed his love and knowledge about both genres.

Swamiji was preparing for his second trip to the USA (1899). He went to Calcutta to meet a friend and on his way back home, he insisted Priyanath Babu to accompany him till Belur Math. Again, they struck a very interesting conversation about Geeta based on Karma. This episode is based on such discussion.

Swamiji had most fascinating conversations with his disciples on various topics like religion, culture, society, etc. Priyanath Singh whom Swamiji called Singi, was one of his favorite. They used to have extensive discussions, especially on education in Indian society.

Swamiji’s views on women and womanhood were traditional and modern at the same time. He respected Indian women for having fulfilled their duties through ages in every role. But today, he found them confused between traditions and modernism. He was surprised by the openness of the American women.

Swamiji was very keen on imparting education to each and every Indian irrespective of his caste, creed or religion and therefore, stressed on the importance of education in nation building.