“He was the first Hindu whose personality won demonstrative recognition abroad at the close of the last century for India's ancient civilization and for her newborn claim to nationhood.” This was a tribute paid by Sir Valentine Chirol to the genius

Swami Vivekananda delivered his historic speech at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893 (close of the 19th century). His speeches and personality won international recognition for India's ancient philosophical heritage and civilization. This was at a time when India was just beginning to articulate its claim to nationhood. Sir Valentine Chirol, a British journalist, recognized this significance. Gandhi came later, Tagore gained fame in the 20th century, and Gokhale was primarily a political leader within India.