First life-size bronze statue installed at Westlake Square.
By Sreelatha M
13 Apr 2026
A life-size bronze statue of Swami Vivekananda has been unveiled at Westlake Square in Seattle, marking the first such installation of the Indian philosopher in the United States.
The statue was jointly unveiled by Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and India’s Consul General in Seattle, with support from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), which gifted the monument.
Officials said the installation highlights Swami Vivekananda’s message of universal brotherhood, tolerance, and harmony. It is also seen as a symbol of growing cultural ties between India and the United States.
Swami Vivekananda is widely known for introducing Indian philosophy to the West through his historic address in Chicago in 1893. His teachings continue to influence global discussions on spirituality and interfaith understanding.
Seattle was chosen for the statue due to its diverse population and strong Indian-American community. Local leaders and community members attended the unveiling ceremony in large numbers.
The statue is expected to become a cultural landmark in the city and a reminder of shared values between India and the US.
