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 peacocks, 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.

Swadhyaya Workshop and Prize Distribution Ceremony by VK RT Nagar

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, RT Nagar Branch organized a Swadhyaya Workshop and Prize Distribution Ceremony for participants of the Swadhyaya Competitions. The event took place on 29th April 2025 at Lal Bahadur Shastri Government First Grade College, Sultanpalya, R.T. Nagar. A total of 75 people attended the workshop, including 66 students, 4 faculty members, and 5 karyakartas.

The program began with a prayer and a welcome speech by a college student. Ms. Thara Didi shared a Viveka Vani (an inspiring thought from Swami Vivekananda), followed by a patriotic song, “Galat Mat Kadam Uthao,” led by Sri Bharath ji, with all participants joining in.

Sri Bharath ji conducted a Personality Development Workshop, which included an icebreaker session, goal-setting activities, concentration games, motivational discussions, and an open forum. The session was well received and engaged the participants actively.

Following this, the Prize Distribution Ceremony for the winners of the Swadhyaya Exam was held. Prizes included certificates, books, and cash awards. The cash prizes were generously sponsored by Sri Venkatesh ji of Saptagiri Enterprises, a client of Sri Chethan Bhaiya.

The event concluded with the chanting of the Shanti Mantra. Notably, 5 to 6 students expressed interest in volunteering for future Kendra activities, marking a positive outcome of the program.

Yuva Spandana Programme conducted by VKV Kallubalu

Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Kallubalu (Karnataka Prant) conducted a Yuva Spandana programme for the students of Akshara First Grade Degree College, Anekal, on 29th April 2025.

The objective of the programme was to introduce Vivekananda Kendra and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial to the youth, and to inspire them to participate in meaningful nation-building activities. 

Aadharneeya Dr. Padmarekha Didi delivered an inspiring speech on the mission and vision of Vivekananda Kendra, highlighting its seva activities across Bharat. Sri Parappa ji, a teacher from VKV Kallubalu, shared the inspiring success story of the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, emphasizing the dedication and collective effort behind its construction.

The college management felicitated Aadharneeya Dr. Padmarekha Didi in appreciation of Kendra’s valuable contribution. The programme was held at the college premises and was attended by around 300 students, along with the college principal and staff members.

Thiruvilakku Puja (Deepa Puja) Held at Tenkasi for Universal Well-being

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Rural Development Programme (VKRDP) organised a grand Thiruvilakku Puja (Deepa Puja) and women’s conference at the historic Kulasekaranathaswamy Temple in Sengottai, Tenkasi District, Tamil Nadu on 27th April 2025 with the intention of invoking universal peace and prosperity. A total of 443 sisters actively took part in the puja.

Shri. Ayyappan Anna, Secretary (Prakalpa Sangatak) of VKRDP and Pranta Sah Sangatak - Tamilnadu Prant, presided over the Puja. Notable attendees included Engineer Shri. L.M. Murali, PLM Sports Academy; Industrialist Shri. Mohan Patel; former Municipal Councillor Shri. Mani Maheswaran and ex-army officer Shri. Natarajan.

The program began with a welcome address by Shri. Karuppasamy, Tenkasi District Coordinator, VKRDP. Smt.Deivanai, rendered devotional songs invoking divine blessings. Students from the Vivekananda Kendra Balwadi, Ilanji, performed cultural programs and gave speeches on spiritual themes. A student from Sambavar vadakarai Sanskar Varga presented a traditional welcome dance.

The chief guest, Yatheeswari Atmapriya Amba, Administrator of Sri Sarada Ashram, Five Falls (Courtallam), delivered the keynote address. She was joined by dignitaries including Smt.Rameela Mohan Patel, Smt.Shenbagavalli Madasamy, Smt.Mallika Velusamy, and Smt. Muthumari Lakshmanan in lighting the inaugural kuthuvilakku (lamp), marking the commencement of the puja.

The puja was led by Kendra sisters Smt. Chandra and Smt.Saraswati and saw the enthusiastic participation of women from Sengottai and neighboring villages. Before the main puja, special abhishekam, alankaram, and deepa aradhana were performed for the deities.

As a token of gratitude, mementoes were presented to special guests and donors. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri. Kannan. The event witnessed participation from spiritual devotees, community leaders, social activists, Kendra volunteers, life members, and well-wishers.

Nurturing Young Minds: 21-Day Personality Development Camp at Hebbal

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, Hebbal Branch organized a 21-day Personality Development Camp for children from 7th to 26th April 2025 at the Vivekananda School of Yoga, Hebbal. The non-residential camp was conducted daily from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. during the summer vacation, with the aim of inculcating spiritual and patriotic values in children. A total of 30 children and 20 karyakartas actively participated in the camp.

The Personality Development Camp featured a wide range of educational, recreational, musical, patriotic, and spiritual activities designed to nurture the holistic growth of the young minds. Sessions included shloka chanting, yoga, games, the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda, crafts, storytelling, Vedic chanting, patriotic songs, public speaking, drawing, bhajans, social etiquette, financial and computer literacy, subhashitas, value education, and lessons from the Bhagavad Gita. These classes, handled by different karyakartas, were designed to bring out the best in each child and prepare them to grow into responsible and productive citizens of Bharat. The children participated with great enthusiasm, and the parents expressed appreciation for the meaningful values imparted through the sessions.

On 26th April, a day-long Bhraman (Cultural tour) was organized to Bhoganandishwara Temple, Sai Grama, and Muddenahalli village. The Bhraman, held from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., saw the participation of 10 karyakartas, 30 children, and 3 guardians. The purpose of the visit was to reinforce the spiritual and patriotic values taught during the camp through direct exposure to significant cultural and historical sites.

At Bhoganandishwara Temple, the children chanted shlokas and bhajans, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. The group then visited Sai Grama, where they toured the campus, including the goshala and meditation hall. The final stop was Muddenahalli village, where the children visited the home, museum, and samadhi of Sir M. Visvesvaraya. During the visit, Sri Chandru ji shared insights on the balance between ‘Yoga’ and ‘Bhoga’ in one’s life. Sri Prasad ji spoke about the role and importance of Dharmic organizations, emphasizing the selfless service they provide and the responsibility of every individual to contribute to society. Sri Chandru ji also discussed the life, contributions, and lasting legacy of Sir M. Visvesvaraya.

The camp concluded on 27th April with a concluding ceremony, during which certificates were distributed to all participating children, marking the successful completion of the camp and celebrating the journey of learning and transformation they had undertaken.

VKVVF Organizes Special Personality Development Camp for Selected Children

Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungallur (Kerala Prant) organized a special one-day Personality Development Camp for children selected from various camps conducted in and around Kodungallur. The camp was held at the VKVVF premises on 26th April 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

A total of 25 children participated in the camp, accompanied by several parents, bringing the total number of participants to 36. The organizing team included VKVVF’s yoga instructors and the parents of the participating children.

The objective of the camp was to help children develop positive self-beliefs and reinforce cultural values through engaging activities such as games, storytelling, and yoga.

Mananeeya Dr. Lakshmi Kumari Didi, Director of VKVVF, and Adarneeya Shri Sudhakar Ji, Senior Jeevan-vrati Karyakarta of Vivekananda Kendra, interacted with the children and blessed them.

Dr. Rema Devi, Principal of a B.Ed. College and an experienced counselling psychologist, was the Chief Guest for the event. She shared valuable insights with the participants, enriching the camp experience.

The camp was smoothly coordinated and supported by VKVVF Karyakartas: Ms. Bindu Chechi, Ms. Remya Chechi, Ms. Suja Chechi, Ms. Anita Chechi, Ms. Preetha Chechi, Sri Radhakrishnan Ji, and Sri Danasheelan Ji.

The children took part enthusiastically in all the activities, enjoyed the camp thoroughly, and gained meaningful cultural and moral values

Grand Thiruvilakku Puja in Ramanathapuram District

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Rural Development Programme (VKRDP), Ramanathapuram branch organised a spiritually enriching Thiruvilakku Puja at Arulmigu Sri Soundara Nayaki Sametha Naganathar Swamy Temple, Nainarkoil, in Ramanathapuram district on 26th April 2025. The event began on an auspicious note with the ceremonial lighting of the lamps by Kendra wellwishers — Sri. Thuraipandi, Smt. Kannagi (Teacher), Smt. Ulagammal, Smt. Parvathi, and Kum. Monisha, marking a graceful start to the spiritual proceedings.

Shri. Ayyappan Anna, Secretary of (Prakalpa Sangatak) VKRDP and Pranta Sah Sangatak - Tamilnadu Prant, delivered an inspiring blessings address, emphasizing the spiritual and cultural significance of such collective prayer events.

The puja saw an overwhelming response with 1,173 women participants from over 100 villages across Paramakudi and surrounding regions of Ramanathapuram, all coming together in deep devotion. The gathering prayed for the welfare of the nation, the flourishing of our cultural heritage, global peace, and the well-being of all humanity.

This grand event was made possible by the dedicated efforts of Vivekananda Kendra volunteers, local devotees, and well-wishers from Ramanathapuram district, who meticulously planned and executed all arrangements with devotion and unity.

PRAGATI 2025 at Badlapur: Inspiring Educators for a Samarth Bharat

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Maharashtra Prant, Konkan Vibhag, Badlapur Nagar, in association with Adarsh Vidya Prasarak Sanstha, Kulgaon-Badlapur, organized PRAGATI (Programme for Rationale, Agile, Genuine, Accurate, Transforming Intelligence) on Saturday, 26th April 2025. The day-long event was held from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the auditorium of Adarsh Vidya Prasarak Sanstha, Kulgaon-Badlapur.

The primary objective of the programme was to enhance the teaching approach of school and college educators, enabling them to actively contribute to the vision of a Vikasit (developed) and Samarth (empowered) Bharat by inspiring their students to adopt the motto of Rashtra Pratham (Nation First). The event witnessed participation from 200 people, including 175 teachers across primary, secondary, and higher secondary levels, along with 25 Karyakartas from Vivekananda Kendra.

The event was graced by eminent speakers including Shri Radhakrishnan Pillai — renowned author, leadership speaker, and scholar of Chanakya Niti — and Major (Retd.) Mohini Garge-Kulkarni, author of Aparajita, a book on Bharatiya Veerangana in the last 2000 years history of Bharat. Distinguished guests such as Meenatai Deshpande, Amrut Parivar Pramukh of Konkan Vibhag, along with honourable committee members of Adarsh Vidya Prasarak Sanstha along with school Headmaster, section Headmasters, and the college principal were also present.

The programme began with a tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Shri. Pillai conducted the first session, which was followed by Major Garge-Kulkarni’s address after lunch. After the lunch break, participants engaged in the soulful rendition of the Kendra Geet “Nirmano ke pawan yug mein”, followed by two energizing Kendra games that uplifted the spirit of the gathering. An introduction to Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari and the activities of the Badlapur Nagar branch was also shared, with a call for active participation from the attendees. The programme concluded with the singing of Sampurna Vande Mataram, commemorating its 150th year.

Shri. Radhakrishnan Pillai emphasized four foundational aspects of holistic education: (i) physical fitness, (ii) emotional stability, (iii) intellectual depth, and (iv) spiritual integrity. He encouraged teachers to first cultivate these qualities in themselves and then impart them to students. He encouraged teachers to use appropriate tools of intelligence and technology to enhance their teaching methods and to adopt a harmonious blend of Western methodologies and Indian spiritual educational traditions. He also highlighted the need to maintain a joyful and sharp mind through regular yoga, exercise, reading, writing, and artistic expression. Mr. Pillai urged teachers to thoroughly study their academic subjects to present them more effectively and engagingly to students. Moreover, he recommended dedicating a portion of classroom time to share inspiring information, historical insights, and national initiatives to instill patriotism among students.

Major (Retd.) Mohini Garge-Kulkarni shared her inspiring journey in the Indian Army, from the selection process to her retirement and life thereafter. She emphasized that the qualities upheld by army personnel—discipline, resilience, and dedication—are equally essential in teachers and students to shape a brighter future for the nation. Highlighting the importance of team spirit, she spoke about the shift from an individual mindset (“me”) to a collective one (“we”) as a crucial step towards nation-building. She encouraged everyone to understand their capabilities, face challenges with available resources, and stay focused on their goals without being distracted by trivial matters or concerns over personal recognition. Stressing the value of honesty, competence, and the principle of “nation first,” she underlined the importance of leading by example. According to her, teachers and students should cultivate good habits, enhance their physical and mental abilities through consistent practice, discipline, reading, writing, and engagement with the arts—thereby developing strong leadership qualities through ground-level action and personal integrity.

The PRAGATI programme served as a meaningful platform for educators to introspect, learn, and realign their teaching methodologies with the broader goal of national transformation.

कार्यकर्ता का जीवन तप और त्यागमय होना चाहिए : हनुमंत राव

विवेकानन्द केन्द्र कन्याकुमारी की जबलपुर शाखा द्वारा हाल ही में "विमर्श कार्यक्रम" का आयोजन किया गया। इस कार्यक्रम का विषय था "संगठन की शक्ति: कार्यकर्ता", जिसमें जबलपुर नगर के विभिन्न सामाजिक संगठनों के प्रतिनिधि एवं कार्यकर्ता बड़ी संख्या में उपस्थित रहे। कार्यक्रम के मुख्यवक्ता श्री हनुमंत राव जी, अखिल भारतीय उपाध्यक्ष, विवेकानन्द केन्द्र कन्याकुमारी ने अपने प्रेरणादायी उद्बोधन में कहा कि मनुष्य का अस्तित्व अकेले कुछ नहीं है, उसके विकास में संगठित शक्तियों की भूमिका होती है। जैसे एक संतान का जन्म केवल माता-पिता के कारण नहीं होता, बल्कि अनेक अदृश्य शक्तियाँ एक साथ काम करती हैं, उसी प्रकार एक कार्यकर्ता भी समाज और संगठन के सहयोग से आकार लेता है।

उन्होंने आगे कहा कि सनातन संस्कृति “व्यष्टि से समष्टि” की ओर प्रेरित करती है। व्यक्ति का सच्चा आनंद केवल अपनी स्वार्थपूर्ति में नहीं, बल्कि समाज के लिए निस्वार्थ सेवा में है। सच्चा कार्यकर्ता वही होता है जो अपने व्यक्तिगत विकास के लिए नहीं, बल्कि संगठन की उन्नति के लिए सम्पूर्ण समर्पण से कार्य करता है। इसी कारण से कार्यकर्ता को संगठन की शक्ति कहा गया है।

कार्यक्रम के मुख्य अतिथि श्री नरेश ग्रोवर जी ने भी अपने विचार साझा करते हुए कहा कि हिन्दू समाज संगठित कार्य की प्रेरणा देता है। जब हम सामूहिक भावना से राष्ट्र कार्य करते हैं, तो उसके परिणाम भी अत्यंत श्रेष्ठ होते हैं।

इस अवसर पर आरोग्य भारती, संस्कार भारती, मयूर मेमोरियल, कदम संस्था, श्रेष्ठ उपहार फाउंडेशन, श्रीधरा फाउंडेशन, और मानव उत्थान समिति सहित अनेक संगठनों के प्रतिनिधि एवं कार्यकर्ता उपस्थित रहे। कार्यक्रम के समापन पर विवेकानन्द केन्द्र जबलपुर के विभाग संचालक माननीय डॉ. अखिलेश गुमास्ता जी ने सभी आगंतुकों और सहभागी संगठनों का हार्दिक आभार व्यक्त किया।

Leadership Development Workshop for NSS Students at Bengaluru

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, RT Nagar Branch organized a Leadership Development Workshop for the NSS students of Maharani Lakshmi Ammanni College for Women. The workshop was conducted on 25th April 2025 at Shree Channakeshava Swami High School, Nelamangala.

A total of 47 participants attended the workshop, including 40 NSS students, 2 teachers, and 5 Kendra Karyakartas.

The program began with a prayer, followed by a welcome address delivered by a student of the college. An inspiring Vivekavani (quote of Swami Vivekananda) was shared, and the patriotic song ‘Maatrubhumi Gana Se’ was led by a Kendra Karyakarta.

The workshop was conducted by Sri Bharath Ji, Nagar Pramukh, along with Sri Dhrutha Anna, Sri Tarun Anna, Sri Bhavesh Anna, and Sri Naveen Anna. The sessions focused on life skills and team-building activities, which were well received by the students. Many participants expressed a desire to attend more such sessions in the future. The program concluded with the Shanti Mantra and a group photo.

Swadhyaya Competition at Puttur in Dakshin Kannadas

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, organized a Swadhyaya Competition at St Philomena College, Puttur in Dakshin Kannada district on 21st April 2025. A total of 28 students participated in the examination.

The competition was based on the book “Swami Vivekananda Jeevan Mattu Sandesha” and aimed to inspire students to imbibe the noble qualities and character traits of Swami Vivekananda. The event was coordinated by Sri Mallesh ji, a student of the college &Karyakarta  of Vivekananda Kendra, Mysuru.

Gujarat Prant Seva Activities - April Highlights

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Gujarat Prant, actively conducts various seva activities across the state. Below are the highlights of activities carried out in the month of April:

 Dampatti Karyashala at Gandhinagar

A Dampatti Karyashala was organized at the Gandhinagar Karyasthan of Karnavati Vibhag under the Amrut Parivar initiative. Training was provided to the participants on how to conduct the Amrut Parivar programme. A total of 125 people attended the workshop.

 IYF Activity – MOU Signing

As part of the Ignited Youth Forum (IYF) initiative, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Vivekananda Kendra, Purva Karnavati Branch (Karnavati vibhag) and Shri K.K. Shastri Government Commerce College. During the event, the complete structure and objectives of the IYF Mahavidhyalayasthan scheme were shared.

 Personality Development Camp – Bhavnagar

A one-day Personality Development Camp was held at the Bhavnagar branch of Gujarat Prant, with the participation of 53 students from Std. 10 and 12. The camp aimed to help students develop positive values and reinforce cultural foundations through interactive activities such as games, storytelling, and yoga. The students participated with great enthusiasm.

A Tribute to Lifelong Dedication - Mananeeya Dr. M. Lakshmi Kumari Didi Conferred with Prestigious Swami Nirmalananda Award-2025

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari is pleased to inform you that Mananeeya Dr. M. Lakshmi Kumari Didi, the former All India President of Vivekananda Rock Memorial & Vivekananda Kendra, has been conferred with the prestigious Swami Nirmalananda Award-2025 by Sri Ramakrishna Ashrama. She is currently the Director & Chairperson of the Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation at Kodungallur.

This award, instituted in memory of Swami Nirmalananda (1863–1938) - a Direct Disciple of Bhagavan Sri Ramakrishna, recognises individuals who exemplify excellences in Vedantic humanism, the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, and selfless service to society as worship of God.

Mananeeya Lakshmi Didi has been selected for her lifetime dedication in serving Bharat's ordinary men and

women through Swami Vivekananda's transformative teachings.  Didi’s exemplary contributions to the society as an academician, a scientist and the leader of a great movement known as Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari.

The 12th Swami Nirmalananda Award ceremony was held at Sri Ramakrishna Ashrama, Ottapalam, on 20th April 2025 at 4:00 p.m. Pravrajika Vimalaprana Mataji of Sri Sarada Math, Puranattukara, presented the award. Jeevan-vrati Karyakartas of Vivekananda Kendra—Adarneeya Shri Sudhakar Ji and Aadharneeya Kum. Priyamvada Didi—along with Karyakartas of VKVVF participated in the programme at Sri Ramakrishna Ashrama, Ottapalam.

This recognition highlights the significant contributions of Vivekananda Kendra to society through the unwavering dedication and service of its Karyakartas. The Vivekananda Kendra Parivar extends its heartiest congratulations to Mananeeya Dr. M. Lakshmi Kumari Didi, a guide and mentor to all Kendra Karyakartas.

Personality Development Camp at Bhavnagar

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Gujarat Prant, Bhavnagar Vibhag, Bhavnagar Branch organized a Personality Development Camp for students from 18th to 20th April at Raghukul Vidyadham, Devaraj Nagar. A total of 53 participants took part in this enriching experience.

The camp was structured to offer a balanced mix of intellectual, physical, and creative activities. It included six baudhik sessions, three group discussions (Manthan), three creative sessions, two physical exercise sessions, and two games sessions. The inaugural session was held on 18th April, graced by the presence of Adarneeya Ms. Amarjyotiba Gohil Didi and Vadodara Vibhag Sanchalak Shri Jayantilal Parmar ji as chief guests.

The theme of the camp was “Patriotism in Action”, with the objective of instilling patriotic spirit and cultural values in the participants. In one of the creative sessions, Shri Meghdeepbhai Gohil ji guided the participants on understanding the purpose of life. During the “Chalo Vato Kariye” (Let's Talk) session, Ms. Shwetaben led a unique reflective activity where participants were encouraged to converse with objects, helping them experience the idea that God is present everywhere. In the Prerna se Punaruththan session, a treasure hunt game was conducted, accompanied by stories of Veer Hamirji Gohil's sacrifice and dedication, which inspired the participants deeply.

On 19th April, Shri Pareshbhai Trivedi ji delivered an impactful session on Swami Vivekananda as a role model for youth. Shri Chetanbhai Tank ji led a discussion titled “Breaking the Narratives”, prompting participants to critically evaluate contemporary issues. The participants also engaged in Shastrarth (scriptural debate) on texts like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, further enriching their understanding of our cultural heritage. Shri Manharbhai Rathod ji conducted a session on “Let's Update for Future Challenges,” encouraging forward-thinking and preparedness.

The evening Bhajan Sandhya was filled with heartfelt devotional songs that created a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. On the morning of 20th April, the day began with Pratahsmaran, followed by a physical activity session where the strength-building game “Matire ki Fank” was played to cultivate bravery and courage. Participants were also trained in performing Surya Namaskar as part of their daily wellness practice.

Shri Rameshbhai Solanki ji introduced the vision and mission of Vivekananda Kendra through the topic “Vivekananda Kendra – A Thought Movement,” while Dr. Darshakbhai Dasadia ji inspired participants with his session on “Mastering the Game of Life.” Throughout the camp, participants also received training in Bhagavad Gita chanting, which helped nurture discipline, efficiency, and a sense of devotion.

Each day, participants made a personal resolution through Sankalpa, committing to practices such as daily Surya Namaskar, Gita chanting, morning prayer, and more. As part of the creative output, the Sambhaji Gan (one of the teams) created a beautiful collage using newspaper clippings and crafted an artistic rangoli using stones, showcasing both creativity and teamwork.

This camp was a significant step forward in nurturing the spirit of seva, samskar, and self-development among the future torchbearers of the nation.

Swadhyaya Competition at Gadag

vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant organized the Swadhyaya Competition at Shree Benakappa Shankrappa Simhasanad Government First Grade College Gajendragad in Gadag District on 19th April 2025. A total of 41 students participated in the examination.

The competition was based on the book “Swami Vivekananda Jeevan Mattu Sandesha” and aimed to inspire students to imbibe the noble qualities and character traits of Swami Vivekananda. The event was coordinated by Sri Siddesh ji and Kendra karyakarthas Sri Bheeman ji, Sri Naveen ji and Sri Ishwar ji. Full support was extended by the college, ensuring the successful conduct of the event.

Kishori Vikas Shibir and Bhraman organized by VK Thiruvananthapuram

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Kerala Prant, Thiruvananthapuram Branch organized a Kishori Vikas Shibir and Bhraman to Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari on 18th and 19th April 2025. The Shibir and Bhraman were arranged for the resident sisters of Hindu Mahila Mandir. A total of 20 people participated, including 13 participants, 6 staff members, and a Kendra karyakarta.

VK Thiruvananthapuram conducts the Kishori Vikas Shibir for the sisters of Hindu Mahila Mandir every year, and a two-hour workshop is also held monthly on a regular basis. During this vacation period, the hostel students were taken to Vivekananda Kendra's headquarters campus (Vivekanandapuram) in Kanyakumari for a two-day visit to experience the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and learn about the Kendra’s activities.

On the first day of the Bhraman, the participants visited Gramodaya Park, Arise Awake Pictorial Exhibition, and Ramayana Darshanam. Shri Krishnakumar Ji, Jeevan-vrati karyakarta of Vivekananda Kendra interacted with the group and shared insights about the activities of Vivekananda Kendra and its efforts to preserve Indian culture and tradition. He spoke about the Kendra’s twin objectives—Man Making and Nation Building—and emphasized the importance of becoming good human beings who can contribute positively to society.

On the second day, 19th April, the team visited Mananeeya Eknath Ji’s Samadhi, took part in the Pratahsmaran along with the participants of the Acharya Prashikshan Shibir, and witnessed the sunrise from the beach. They also visited the Shri Balaji Temple. After breakfast, Adarneeya Radha Didi, Prant Sangathak of Tamil Nadu and Kerala Prants, interacted with the participants. A devotional bhajan, ‘Atmalingam Bhajore’ bhajan was sung during the session. At 9 a.m., the team visited the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, where they were introduced to the inspiring story of Mananeeya Eknath Ji and the construction of Vivekananda Rock Memorial.

The participants expressed their happiness and felt it was a valuable opportunity to learn about the organization and its work. Kum. Kalyani Didi, Thiruvananthapuram Nagar Sangathak, along with the staff of Hindu Mahila Mandir, took care of the Bhraman. The team returned to Thiruvananthapuram in the late evening. The next Kishori Vikas Shibir is scheduled for 2nd May 2025.

New Swadhyaya Varga inaugurated at RT Nagar

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, RT Nagar Branch inaugurated a new Swadhyaya Varga at the Samhita School of Perform

ing Arts and the RT Nagar Branch Karyalaya on 20th April 2025. A total of 16 people attended the varga.

The inaugural programme began with a prayer, followed by Deepa Prajwalan. The Karyakartas sang the Sharada Stuti and sought the blessings of the Goddess of Knowledge. The Swadhyaya Varga poster was unveiled by Shri Purushottam Ji (Nagar Sanchalak), Ms. Thara Bai Didi (Sahitya Seva Pramukh), and senior Karyakarta Dharani Amma.

Shri Purushottam Ji guided the gathering about the purpose of Swadhyaya Varga and spoke on the four margas, emphasizing the importance of Jnana Marga (path of knowledge). Thara Bai Didi motivated the participants and offered prayers for the continuity and success of the varga through her Hita Vanchana.

The first Swadhyaya session was led by Shri Purushottam Ji, on the book “Swami Vivekananda – Hero for Indian Youth”. Reading and discussion was done.

The programme concluded with the Shanti Mantra and Kendra Prarthana.