Swami Vivekananda

Swami Vivekananda and Madame Calve

Swami Vivekananda b. 12.01.1863, d. 4.07.1902

Madame Calve was one of the celebrated singer artiste of Chicago during 1890s. In fact, she was equally famous in both Europe and America. In the year 1893, Swami Vivekananda also had attracted some attention as a spiritual personality in a small but significant section of American elite after his address to the Chicago World Parliament of Religions.

As it happened, one evening Madame Calve, during her performance in the opera, suddenly felt stage fear and anxiety that was almost unknown to her. It was difficult for this talented artist to perform effectively. She almost backed out twice, during each break. But the organizers persuaded her to carry on. Ultimately, she could finish her show in a grand fashion. After the rousing exit, while clapping was still in her ears, she ran to her room only to be told that her beloved daughter was no more; she had died due to burns while Madame Calve was performing her act. Can we say: Her anxiety and stage fright was a form of extrasensory perception - a form of clairvoyance!

Madame Calve fainted. How could she live now? Her success lost its charm for her in this grim tragedy. Thrice she attempted suicide out of grief and depression.

Someone suggested her to seek solace in the company of the Hindu monk - Swami Vivekananda - who could have some spiritual powers to soothe her nerves and calm her mind! But Madame Calve refused, she was not inclined to visit the Swami. After her last unsuccessful suicidal attempt, as the destiny had it, she was brought to the house where the Swami stayed. She unintentionally came, as if in trance, and sat in a chair next to Swamiji's room.

She was in dreamy state, or mental blankness, when she heard a consoling voice coming from the room of Swami Vivekananda: "Come, my child. Don't be afraid." She got up and went to the Swami's room as though hypnotized. Later they became good friends.

Taken from: www.geocities.com/neovedanta