Seattle unveils life-size Vivekananda statue at Westlake Square
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Seattle on Saturday unveiled a life-size bronze statue of Swami Vivekananda at Westlake Square, where Mayor Katie Wilson and Consul General of India in Seattle Prakash Gupta jointly presided over the ceremony. The installation, identified by officials as the first hosted by a U.S. city government, occupies a central downtown public space.
The unveiling on April 12 drew regional mayors and community leaders, and the Consulate General posted celebratory remarks referencing Vivekananda's 1893 Chicago address. City officials described the monument as strengthening cultural ties and public recognition for Indian Americans, and the site’s high foot traffic positions the statue as a visible civic artwork.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 1893 – Vivekananda addressed the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago (historical context referenced in coverage).
- 2. Sculptor Naresh Kumar Kumawat created the life-size bronze statue (reported by NewsDrum).
- 3. The statue was placed at Westlake Square in downtown Seattle prior to the public ceremony.
- 4. 12th April 2026 – Joint unveiling by Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and Consul General Prakash Gupta at Westlake Square.
- 5. Post-unveiling – Consulate social media posts and attendance by multiple regional mayors highlighted the cultural milestone.
Why it matters
This statue is a nod to the cultural diversity that makes up our nation. It's a visible reminder of the contributions of Indian Americans in our communities. If you're in Seattle, consider visiting Westlake Square to see this new civic artwork.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
