It was 1893 when Swami Vivekananda introduced America to the knowledge of ancient India through yoga. Not since the arrival of Columbus has a foreigner heralded such radical change to the fabric of American culture. Yoga’s steady rise into the zeitgeist of Western culture over the past 100 years is evidenced through such films as Stars Wars and The Matrix, the music of the Beatles and Coldplay, in literature from Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World to countless top selling self-improvement books extolling mindfulness and meditation, from the adoption of Ayurvedic medicine, to the popularity for athleisure apparel and the presence of a yoga studio on every Main Street USA.

Featuring interviews from leaders in film, music, sport, and religion woven together with colorful animation and archival footage, 1893: YEAR OF THE YOGI presents the life and legacy of Swami Vivekananda. True to Vivekananda’s core message of inclusiveness, the film draws from a vast trove of books, speeches, and letters that underscore yoga’s broad appeal to diverse audiences. Classical Indian music including the Swami’s own compositions coupled with contemporary Western artists inspired by ancient tradition create a sonic tapestry that elevates the film’s narrative. Times of challenge represent the greatest opportunity for reflection and growth, and 1893: YEAR OF THE YOGI serves that mission as an artistic continuation of Vivekananda’s work.