Thursday, August 21, 2025

International Day of Yoga celebration at RJ Public School in Bengaluru

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, through all its branch centres across Bharat, celebrated the International Day of Yoga 2025 with great enthusiasm, aiming to bring forth Yoga in its true essence—as a way of life based on the vision of Oneness.  As a part of the celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, RT Nagar Branch organized a Yoga session at RJ Public School, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. A total of 229 participants, including 197 students, 27 faculty members, and 5 Karyakartas, took part in the celebration.

The session was conducted following the Common Yoga Protocol issued by the Ministry of AYUSH, incorporating āsanas, prāṇāyāma, and guided relaxation. The event aimed to promote awareness about holistic health and well-being through the practice of Yoga.

The school management expressed heartfelt gratitude for organizing the IDY programme and conveyed their interest in hosting more Vivekananda Kendra activities for the benefit of the students in the future.

 

Thursday, August 14, 2025

Short Video & Reels Making Competition for Students

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari – Telugu Prant (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh), is organizing a Short Video/Reels Making Competition for Intermediate, Undergraduate, and Postgraduate students. The initiative is inspired by Swami Vivekananda’s timeless message which continues to guide our collective vision and efforts. This year’s theme is: “Love Bharat –Serve Bharat- Celebrate Bharat”.

The competition encourages students to creatively explore how the ideal of universal brotherhood can translate into real-world action. The contest includes two categories: Instagram Reels & YouTube Shorts. Students must participate in teams of 5 members, creating short and impactful videos aligned with the given theme.

This initiative aims to engage today’s youth in reflecting on and creatively expressing the ideals of Bharat’s wisdom, its cultural, spiritual strengths, through short-form video storytelling.

These contests are a lead-up to our celebrations culminating in a grand public program – VIMARSH – on 13th September 2025 in Hyderabad, where winners will receive prizes and be inspired by a renowned thought leader.

 

Objectives of the Contest:

  1. Promote awareness and understanding of Bharat’s unique message of Universal Brotherhood.
  2. Encourage creative engagement with Swami Vivekananda’s teachings.
  3. Use popular digital platforms to spread messages of Love and serve the Nation.
  4. Provide a state level platform for students to showcase their thoughts and talents.

 

Eligibility: Students pursuing Intermediate/UG/PG (any stream).

Registration: Students must register with a TEAM of 5 members.

Registration contribution: Rs 100/- per team

Mode of Registration: Online (Google Form)

 

Important Dates:

  • Last Date of Registration: 15th August 2025
  • Last Date of Submission of Entries:  25th August

Submission of entries through Email ID:  reelscompetition22@gmail.com

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Free Eye Check-up Camp at Thoothukudi

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari – Tamil Nadu Prant, VK Rural Development Programme (VK RDP), Kovilpatti Branch organized a Free Eye Check-up Camp on 4th of May 2025 at Hindu Nadar Middle School, Kulathur, in Thoothukudi District.

This camp was conducted in collaboration with the Aravind Eye Hospital, Thoothukudi, whose expert medical team rendered their valuable support to the programme.

A total of 115 outpatients underwent thorough eye examinations during the camp. The check-ups included vision screening, diagnosis of common eye conditions, and consultations. Out of these, 19 patients were identified with conditions requiring additional medical attention and were referred to Aravind Eye Hospital for further treatment and necessary procedures.

In addition, 20 patients were provided with free medicines to address minor eye ailments, ensuring immediate relief and care.


Sunday, August 10, 2025

VK Pathanamthitta organizes Kendra Parichaya Shibir at Kanyakumari

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Kerala Prant, Pathanamthitta Branch organized a Kendra Parichaya Shibir at the Training Center, Vivekanandapuram, Kanyakumari, from 27th to 29th April 2025. A total of 38 participants from 12 families, along with 5 Karyakartas, attended the Shibir. This Shibir was conducted as a follow-up to the Matru Sammelan held at Keezhvaipur, Pathanamthitta, on 20th February 2025, as part of the Amrita Parivar initiative.


The participants arrived at Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari on 27th April by noon. After lunch at the Kendra, they visited the Kanyakumari Devi temple and later witnessed the sunset at the beach. Dinner was served at Vivekanandapuram.


On the morning of 28th April, the team visited the Sri Tirupati Balaji Temple, witnessed the sunrise, and had darshan of Lord Venkateswara. They then proceeded to Swami Vivekananda Mandapam and Mananeeya Eknathji’s Samadhi. At the Samadhi, Aadharneeya Kum. Radha Devi Didi, Kerala Prant Sanghatak, addressed the participants and spoke about Swami Vivekananda, Eknathji, and the mission of Vivekananda Kendra.


After breakfast at 8:30 AM, the participants visited the Ramayana Darshan exhibition. By 11:00 AM, they proceeded to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, where VK Kerala Samparka Pramukh Shri Vishnu Ji gave an insightful briefing about the Memorial and the significance of the Sreepadaparai. The team also visited the glass bridge and the Thiruvalluvar statue. Following lunch at Vivekanandapuram, they explored the various exhibitions within the campus, guided by Aadharneeya Priyamvada Didi, who explained the themes and messages of each exhibition. In the evening, they participated in the Arati at Shri Ekakshara Mahaganapati Temple.


A particularly engaging discussion took place between the children and Shri Vishnu Ji, who enthusiastically responded to their questions, clarifying doubts and inspiring curiosity. On the morning of 29th April, the participants watched the sunrise from Sunrise Point and enjoyed some time at the Vivekanandapuram beach. After breakfast, they departed for Shri Thanumalayan Temple at Suchindram.

The participants, including both children and elders, deeply appreciated the serene, spiritual, and inspiring atmosphere at Vivekananda Kendra — surrounded by pe

acocks, cranes, cows, and mango trees. All expressed their desire to actively support the Kendra’s activities and carry forward the work of the Amrita Parivar. Each family also contributed to the Annadanam at the Kendra. The success of the Shibir was the result of continuous follow-up by the dedicated stanik Karyakartas, Shri Vivek Gopinath Ji and Smt. Ambili Vivek didi.

Monday, August 4, 2025

Classes begin at VKV Ramsing

A grand ceremony marked the commencement of academic classes and opening of hostel facilities at the Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (VKV)here in Upper Siang district on Monday.

The ceremony began with a traditional ‘bhumi pujan’, conducted by the Donyi Polo Yelam Kebang team, led by priest Takong Mingki, followed by a tree plantation drive within the school campus, organized by the Environment and Forest Department.

Addressing the gathering, Vivekananda Kendra all-India vice president Hanumantha Rao highlighted the longstanding association between VKVs and Arunachal Pradesh, dating back to the establishment of the first school in 1977. He said that VKVs have grown into premier educational institutions, “not only imparting academic knowledge but also instilling cultural values, patriotism, and a sense of responsibility among students.”He praised the relentless efforts of the VKV Trust to ensure holistic development of children in the state, and said that studying in a VKV is a matter of pride.

Rao lauded the deputy commissioner and his team, as well as local community leaders, for their unwavering dedication and efforts in making VKV Ramsing functional.

Sujatha Didi informed that VKV Ramsing is the 45th VKV established in Arunachal, “and marks the beginning of a new chapter in education for the region.” She emphasized the crucial role of good teachers in society and their importance in fostering holistic education.

MLA Alo Libang described the day as “historic and a dream come true” for the people of Upper Siang, especially for the residents of Ramsing. He expressed appreciation for all contributors, including the land donors from Rotgo Banggo, and BRO contractors, for their support in turning this vision into reality.

He recounted the initial challenges and his efforts to bring a VKV to Upper Siang to enhance the district’s educational landscape.

Deputy Commissioner Talo Jerang elaborated the steps taken by the district administration to make the school functional. He said that, although the infrastructure had been completed in 2017, it remained unused until a concerted effort was made over the past two months to operationalize it. “Through collective mobilization of resources and support from HoDs, community leaders, and well-wishers, the school is now ready to begin operation,” he said.

“Getting a premier VKV in our district is in itself a great achievement and a source of immense pride. We should all feel proud of this collective accomplishment,” Jerang said.

He informed that boys from Classes 3 and 5 will begin attending classes in Ramsing, and by October or November, the entire school, up to Class 10, will be shifted from its temporary location in Yingkiong to Ramsing.

“However, nursery to Class 2 will continue in Yingkiong for the time being,” he said.

The DC acknowledged the generous support from the local community, noting that 571 individuals contributed to the cause, and over 200 pieces of furniture were made from locally raised funds. The DC directed the DDSE to ensure monthly inspection and extend full logistic support to VKV Ramsing.

ZPC Lumgeng Litin and KVK Ramsing Principal Dr R Karkare also spoke.

Nestled in a picturesque valley near the Siang river and surrounded by lush greenery, VKV Ramsing is spread across a sprawling 8-acre campus and is well-connected by road, promising a serene and conducive environment for learning. (DIPRO)

नेतृत्व विकास कार्यशाला — विवेकानन्द केन्द्र गोधरा

दिनांक 04 अगस्त 2025विवेकानन्द केन्द्र कन्याकुमारीकार्यस्थान – गोधरा द्वारा श्री सार्वजनिक कॉमर्स कॉलेज में एक दिवसीय नेतृत्व विकास कार्यशाला का आयोजन किया गया। कार्यशाला का मुख्य विषय "स्वामी विवेकानंद और नेतृत्व" रहाजिस पर आ. जयदीप भाई पुवार (अमृत परिवार प्रमुखगोधरा) द्वारा अत्यंत सरल एवं प्रेरणादायक शैली में मार्गदर्शन प्रदान किया गया।

कार्यशाला में युवाओं की भागीदारी को उत्साहपूर्ण बनाए रखने हेतु विविध खेलगीत एवं समूह गतिविधियों का भी समावेश किया गया। कार्यशाला के अनुवर्तन के रूप में एक दिवसीय साहसिक प्रवास एवं विमर्श की रूपरेखा युवाओं के समक्ष प्रस्तुत की गईताकि वे आगे भी इस यात्रा से जुड़े रहें और नेतृत्व के गुणों का विकास कर सकें।

इस अवसर पर कॉलेज के प्राचार्य एवं अन्य प्राध्यापकगण भी उपस्थित रहे। कुल मिलाकर 45 युवा इस कार्यशाला में सहभागी हुए और इसे सफल बनाया।

Sunday, August 3, 2025

Rakhi Making Workshop at Hebbal

 

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, Hebbal Nagar Branch organised a Rakhi Making Workshop on 2nd August 2025 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Vivekananda Kendra, Coffee Board Layout, Hebbal. A total of 27 Samskara Varga children enthusiastically participated in the programme.

The workshop aimed to encourage creativity and cultural bonding among children in preparation for the upcoming Raksha Bandhan festival. Participants learnt to make rakhis by themselves, enjoying the hands-on activity while understanding the significance of the festival. The event fostered both skill development and the spirit of togetherness.

Thursday, July 31, 2025

lJuna Akhada Maha Mandaleshwar Swami Anandavanam Bharati Ji’s visit to VK-VVF Kodugallur

 Juna Akhada Maha Mandaleshwar Swami Anandavanam Bharati Ji visited Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation (VKVVF), Kodungallur (Kerala Prant), on 18th April 2025 at 11:30 a.m. A total of 30 people were present during the visit and received Swamiji’s blessings.


Juna Akhada, one of India’s oldest and largest monastic orders, has a legacy of over 1200 years and includes more than 4,00,000 monks devoted to spiritual practices and the preservation of Sanatana Dharma. VKVVF organized a warm and grand welcome to felicitate Swami Anandavanam Bharati Ji, the first Maha Mandaleshwar of Juna Akhada from Kerala.

Swamiji was received with traditional rituals by Adaraneeya Sri Sudhakar Ji, Senior Jeevan-Vrati Karyakarta of Vivekananda Kendra. Mananeeya Dr. Lakshmi Kumari Didi, Director of VK-VVF, welcomed Swamiji. Swami Anandavanam Bharati Ji shared his blessings and thoughts with the participants.

He spent the rest of the day at VK-VVF, engaging in meaningful interactions and discussions about future activities, particularly focused on preserving and promoting Sanatana Dharma in Kerala.



Monday, July 28, 2025

Interactive Personality Development Workshops at VKV Kanyakumari

Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu Prant), has decided to organise a series of awareness activities for students as part of the "Know Vivekananda Kendra" initiative. Over the past two years, Adarneeya Kum. Radha Didi, Tamil Nadu Prant Sangathak, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari and teachers have been conducting Personality Development Workshops for middle school students. This year, the sessions were organized for students of Class V on 28th July, Class VI on 29th July, and Class VII on 30th July 2025A total of 278 students attended.

The program was thoughtfully structured to engage the students through:

  • Introduction to Kanyakumari’s cultural and spiritual significance.
  • Awareness about Vivekananda Kendra and its various activities.
  • Interactive games focused on enhancing awareness, concentration, decision-making, and enthusiasm.
  • Storytelling sessions aimed at inculcating moral values.
  • Discussions on becoming responsible individuals, serving family, and contributing to society.
  • Guided meditation sessions for mental clarity and inner peace.

 

The sessions were well-received and created a positive impact among the students, inspiring them to live a purposeful life and serve with love and responsibility.

On 28th July 2025, the session focused on enhancing listening, concentration, and communication skills through interactive games, storytelling, and engaging discussions. Activities like “If You Are Fine,” “Flower Clap,” and a story from the Ramayanam encouraged participation, attentiveness, and value-based reflection. Students also sang a bhajan on Bhagwan Shiva, discussed its meaning, and experienced a calming guided meditation. The session concluded with feedback sharing, summarization by Aadharneeya Radha Didi, and the chanting of the Shanti Mantra, leaving a sense of peace and fulfillment among all present. 90 students and 10 teachers participated.

On 29th July 2025, the session aimed to nurture self-awareness, focus, and value-based thinking. Through engaging activities like “If You Are Fine,” “Ram and Shyam,” and Swamiji-inspired memory games, students developed attentiveness and coordination. Aadharneeya Radha Didi introduced the concept of a “Jeevan Vrati Karyakarta” and emphasized the importance of concentration for success. An inspiring story about an artist’s character evolution was shared, with a student, Sri S. Viswa of Class VI-B, retelling it in Tamil for better understanding. The session concluded with guided meditation, feedback sharing, and the chanting of the Shanti Mantra, leaving students inspired and reflective. 85 students and 10 teachers participated.


On 30th July 2025, the session began with Omkar and Shanti Path, followed by a reflection on past experiences. Students actively participated in engaging games like “Ram and Shyam,” “If You Are Fine,” “Fish and Net,” and “Ram, Raja, Raghav,” which fostered mindfulness, listening, and social interaction. Radha Didi explained the deeper values behind each activity, encouraging introspection and personal growth. A key highlight was the story “Who Am I?”, focusing on self-awareness and emotional balance, which was retold in Tamil by student Sanjeev from Class VII-B. The session concluded with a guided meditation and feedback sharing, with students expressing heartfelt appreciation. The program ended on a peaceful note with the chanting of the Shanti Mantra, leaving a meaningful and lasting impression on all. 103 students and 10 teachers participated.

The workshops were well-received by both students and teachers. Students expressed enthusiasm and gratitude for the interactive approach and meaningful content. The initiative left a lasting impression, contributing significantly to the character and personality development of the young participants.

Sunday, July 27, 2025

Free Eye Screening Camp at Thiruchendur by VKRDP

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Rural Development Programme (VK-RDP), Kovilpatti Branch, organised a Free Eye Screening Camp on Sunday, 27th July 2025, at Sri Saravanaiyyer Middle School, Thiruchendur, from 9 AM to 2 PM, drawing wide participation from rural communities.

The camp was conducted in collaboration with Velavan Gas Agency (Bharat Gas Distributors) and the renowned Aravind Eye Hospital, Thoothukudi, with generous funding support from the Thoothukudi District Blindness Control Society (DBCS).
A team of dedicated doctors and supporting nurses from Aravind Eye Hospital carried out the screenings with professionalism and care, ensuring that every participant received the necessary attention and guidance.


A total of 105 people from 26 nearby villages availed themselves of the camp’s services. Among them, 7 patients were referred to Aravind Eye Hospital for advanced treatment, while 8 participants were given medicines on the spot, and 6 were provided with spectacles, bringing immediate relief and improved vision to those in need.
The eye camp was meticulously organised by karykarthas of VK RDP Kovilpatti branch, along with the enthusiastic support of Kovilpatti and Thoothukudi social workers and well-wishers, whose tireless efforts ensured smooth execution and impactful outreach.

Friday, July 25, 2025

Weekly Amrita Parivar Sankul Milan at Keezhvaipur

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Kerala Prant, Pathanamthitta Branch conducted the weekly Amrita Parivar Sankul Milan on 25th July 2025 at the residence of Soorya Chechi, Keezhvaipur. A total of 13 members from 5 families participated.

The programme began at 5:00 p.m. with a prayer, followed by a discussion on “5 ” focusing on the first value – Sughi. Participants then learnt a few lines of a bhajan and engaged in a hands-on activity of making paper bags together. Plans for the next Sankul gathering were also discussed.

The session concluded at 6:00 p.m. with the Shanti Mantra and Kendra Prarthana. All members participated actively in the discussions and enjoyed the craft activity, fostering both learning and bonding. The next Sankul gathering is scheduled for 1st August 2025.

Thursday, July 24, 2025

Bhajan Sandhya on Chowdeshwari Devi Jayanthi at RT Nagar


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
On the auspicious occasion of Goddess Chowdeshwari Devi Jayanthi, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, 
RT Nagar Branch organized a soulful Bhajan Sandhya on 24th July 2025 at Sri Adi Shakthi Chowdeshwari Devi Temple in Dinnur. A total of 117 people attended.

The event witnessed the presence of around 100 devotees who had gathered to participate in the pooja and immerse themselves in the devotional singing to seek the divine blessings of the Goddess. The Bhajan Sandhya created a spiritually uplifting atmosphere filled with devotion and serenity.

A total of 17 karyakartas and Samskara Varga children actively participated in the bhajan, lending vibrancy and enthusiasm to the event.

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

आवासीय व्यक्तित्व विकास शिविर — विवेकानन्द केन्द्र शाखा कांगड़ा

 

दिनांक 23 से 27 जुलाई 2025विवेकानन्द केन्द्र कन्याकुमारी शाखा – कांगड़ा द्वारा रेनबो इंटरनेशनल स्कूलनगरौटा बगवांहिमाचल प्रदेश में एक आवासीय व्यक्तित्व विकास शिविर का सफल आयोजन किया गया।

शिविर का उद्घाटन समारोह रेनबो स्कूल के संचालक श्री छवि कश्यपदेहरा के पुलिस अधीक्षक श्री मयंक चौधरी (IPS) तथा विवेकानन्द केन्द्र के सह प्रांत संयोजक श्री लोकेश जी की गरिमामयी उपस्थिति में सम्पन्न हुआ।

पाँच दिवसीय शिविर के दौरान विभिन्न बौद्धिक सत्रों के माध्यम से विद्यार्थियों के व्यक्तित्व विकास की दिशा में प्रेरक विषयों पर चर्चा हुई:

  • स्वामी विवेकानंद – जीवन संदेश (डॉ. अशोक रैना)
  • भगिनी निवेदिता (श्री लोकेश केसरे)
  • माननीय एकनाथ जी का जीवन (श्री बलवीर कुशवाह)
  • जीवन का उद्देश्य (श्री लोकेश केसरे)

शिविर के दौरान "Sound of Joy" तथा श्री एकनाथ जी एवं शिला स्मारक पर आधारित वीडियो प्रदर्शन ने सहभागियों को असंभव को संभव करने की प्रेरणा दी।

सत्रों में श्रम संस्कारशारीरिक समता अभ्याससंस्कार वर्गऔर भजन संध्या जैसे विविध आयामों के माध्यम से विद्यार्थियों के समग्र विकास का प्रयास किया गया। इन गतिविधियों का संचालन कन्हैया भैयाअमन भैयामानसी दीदीनीलम दीदी तथा लोकेश भैया के मार्गदर्शन में हुआ।

समापन समारोह में रेनबो वर्ल्ड की प्रिंसिपल श्रीमती मीनाक्षी कश्यपADM श्रीमती शिल्पी बेकता तथा विवेकानन्द केन्द्र कांगड़ा की कार्यकर्ता श्रीमती बबीता शर्मा जी की उपस्थिति में विद्यार्थियों को प्रेरणास्पद संदेश दिया गया।

इस शिविर में कुल 42 शिविरार्थियों ने भाग लियाजिनमें 16 बहनें और 26 भाई शामिल थे। यह शिविर सभी प्रतिभागियों के लिए एक आध्यात्मिकसांस्कृतिक और प्रेरणादायी अनुभव सिद्ध हुआ।