Ganesha Puja Celebrations with Sahasranama Chanting at Hebbal

On August 31, 2025, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, Hebbal Branch, organized the chanting of Lalita Sahasranama and Vishnu Sahasranama at Sai Kalyan Winst, Hebbal Kempapura, Bengaluru, as part of the Ganesha Puja celebrations in the apartment. The program was held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with the participation of 25 devotees.

The chanting created a spiritual and devotional atmosphere, bringing the community together in prayer and celebration. The event reflected the joy of collective worship and the uplifting spirit of Ganesha Puja, leaving participants inspired and enriched

Visit to Vidyaranya Home by Vivekananda Kendra Hebbal Branch

On August 30, 2025, the karyakartas of Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, Hebbal Branch, visited Vidyaranya Home for the Aged and Physically Challenged in Bengaluru. The program was held from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. and saw the participation of 50 members.

The visit included engaging activities such as laughter yoga, action songs, games, and yoga sessions. The elderly residents as well as the physically challenged children enthusiastically took part in the activities, creating a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. The karyakartas, in turn, experienced the visit as deeply satisfying and rewarding, reinforcing the spirit of service and togetherness.

District Level Cultural Competitions at Sankarankovil

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Rural Development Programme (VKRDP), Kovilpatti branch organised District Level Cultural Competitions (Tenkasi District) for urban school students on 29th August 2025 at Sri Gomathi Ambal Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Sankarankovil. The programme was aimed at nurturing cultural values, creativity, and confidence among students, while also providing a platform to showcase their talents.

The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 126 students from 13 schools, accompanied by 30 teachers, 5 parents, and 5 volunteers. A wide range of competitions were conducted, including storytelling, elocution, music, drawing, recitation, and mono acting. Each event gave students an opportunity to express themselves and reflect the rich cultural heritage of our land.

The competitions were judged by experienced teachers and well-wishers, ensuring fairness and encouragement to all participants. The performances of the students highlighted not only their creativity and talent but also the spirit of healthy competition.

The prize distribution ceremony was graced by Shri. N. Pazhani Selvam, Principal of Sri Gomathi Ambal Matric. Hr. Sec. School, who joined as the Chief Guest. He distributed the prizes and certificates to the winners, appreciating their hard work and talent.

Following the competitions, a Parent–Teacher Meeting was organised. Shri. Paramaguru Anna, Joint Secretary, VKRDP, along with well-wishers, interacted with the parents and teachers. During the interaction, they highlighted the activities of Vivekananda Kendra, stressing on its efforts in education, rural development, and cultural awakening. This session created an opportunity for parents and teachers to understand their role in the holistic development of children.

A bookstall featuring Vivekananda Kendra publications was also set up at the venue. The books, covering a wide range of topics such as Indian culture, spirituality, and personality development, attracted the interest of parents, teachers, and students, further spreading the message of Swami Vivekananda.

The event was successfully conducted with the dedicated efforts of the District Incharge, Balasevikas, and volunteers of VKRDP.

Ganesh Chaturthi Bhajan Sandhya at Hebbal

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, Hebbal Nagar Branch organized a Bhajan Sandhya on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi on 27th August 2025 from 6:00 to 6:50 pm at the Indian Institute of Science. A total of 50 participants took part in the program, singing various devotional songs in a festive and celebratory atmosphere. The program concluded successfully with the divine grace of Lord Shri Ganesha, leaving participants deeply inspired and spiritually uplifted.

Ganesh Chaturthi Celebration at RT Nagar

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, RT Nagar Branch celebrated the Ganesh Chaturthi on 27 August 2025 at Samhita School of Performing Arts. A total of 52 people participated, including 42 students, 7 elders, and 3 parents.

The program commenced with a prayer and Aarti, followed by an invocation song Maha Ganapathim rendered by Sri Bharath Ji, who also explained the significance of the festival. Kum. Tarun welcomed the gathering, after which engaging activities such as the Rat, Snake & Ladoo game were conducted. Children sang Ganesha Bhajans and the Ganesha Stotram, and Archana with Pooja was performed. All elders shared their thoughts, and Sri Satya Ji led the children in a joyful Ganesha dance.

The event concluded with Mahamangalaarti, followed by the distribution of Maha Prasad.

Vinayagar Chaturthi Celebration at VKV Kanyakumari

Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu Prant), celebrated Vinayagar Chathurthi from 27th August to 3rd September 2025 in an auspicious and devotional manner. The festival, which honours Lord Ganesha—the deity of wisdom, arts, and sciences, and the remover of obstacles—was observed with active participation of all classes, each taking turns to offer prayers and offerings during the week-long celebration.

As per tradition, the vigraha of Lord Ganesha was crafted with dedicated effort by the students of the Vidyalaya. The schedule of daily offerings was organized class-wise: on 27th August by Standards IX and XI, 28th August by LKG and UKG, 29th August by Standards I and II, 30th August by Standard VII, 31st August by Standard VIII, 1st September by Standards III and IV, 2nd September by Standards V and VI, and 3rd September by Standards X and XII. Each class offered flowers and prasadam with devotion before the deity.

The celebration concluded with the Visarjan of Lord Ganesha on 3rd September at 11.00 am. The week-long observance left the students and staff blessed with divine inspiration, reaffirming the faith that the grace of Lord Ganesha removes obstacles and guides all endeavours to success.

North East Calling programme at Bengaluru

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant organized the Northeast Calling Programme at the Satish Dhawan Auditorium, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangaluru, on 24th August 2025 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with the participation of 340 people. The program was aimed at celebrating the cultural richness of Bharat’s Northeast while highlighting the ongoing developmental initiatives in the region. The Northeast, comprising the eight culturally vibrant states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura, has been a field of dedicated work for Vivekananda Kendra since the 1970s.

 Distinguished Guests & Speakers

The event was graced by eminent dignitaries including Shri Ashish Kumar Chauhan Ji, MD & CEO, National Stock Exchange (NSE); Dr. R. Balasubramaniam Ji, Member of the Human Resource – Capacity Building Commission, Government of India & Founder of Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement; Kum. Nivedita Bhide Didi, All-India Vice President, Vivekananda Rock Memorial & Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari; and Shri A. Muralidhar Ji, Prant Sanchalak, Karnataka Prant, Vivekananda Kendra.

 Program Commencement

The program began with a welcome address by Shri Prasad Ji, Prant Pramukh of Karnataka Prant, followed by the traditional Deepa Prajwalan (lamp lighting ceremony). He also presented the ‘Kendra Parichaya,’ highlighting the various seva activities of Vivekananda Kendra in the Northeast and Karnataka. The cultural segment included a traditional Northeast dance presented by students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Kalluballu, and an Assamese song performed by the R.T. Nagar team, both of which reflected the vibrancy of the region.

 Inspirational Addresses

In his keynote address, Chief Guest Shri Ashish Kumar Chauhan ji spoke about the natural beauty, cultural depth, and historical significance of the Northeast, referencing mentions in epics such as the Mahabharata. He particularly appreciated the entrepreneurial spirit of the women of the region, highlighting their active participation in the NSE as a living example of women empowerment.

Guest of Honour Dr. Balasubramaniam Ji emphasized the civilizational ethos of giving and compassion, underlining how Bharat’s growth must be rooted in social and human capital.

Mananeeya Nivedita Bhide Didi reflected on the historic neglect of the Northeast in mainstream discourse, urging for deeper engagement and appreciation of its culture. She highlighted the immense agricultural diversity of Bharat with over 2,500 varieties of rice and shared the research efforts of Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture (VKIC) in studying crops, culture, and community life in the region. She also stressed that community-based living and cultural values are essential for ensuring sustainable development.

 Showcasing Culture and Creativity

The program further featured an exhibition by VKIC and Vivekananda Kendra
Prakashan, which displayed books, cultural items, and traditional handicrafts such as shawls, bags, and gamchas made by the VKAJ Khatkhati branch, showcasing the artistic skills of the Northeast.

 Conclusion

The event concluded with a group prayer followed by lunch and interactive sessions, leaving the participants inspired by the cultural richness and unity of Bharat.

Gujarat Prant Seva Activities – August 2025 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 August 2025:

Vadodara Branch – Leadership Development Programme
Vivekananda Kendra Vadodara organized a Leadership Development Programme for first-year students on August 24, 2025, at the Sardar Patel Planetarium. The program aimed to develop leadership, organizational skills, and social awareness among the students. A total of 93 students registered, of which 55 attended, supported by 25 volunteers.
The programme included interactive games, group discussions on leadership, brainstorming sessions, project presentations, and a concluding ceremony, leaving a lasting impact on the participants.

Chandkheda Karyasthan – Leadership Development Workshop
Vivekananda Kendra, Karnavati Vibhag, Chandkheda Karyasthan conducted the Ignited Youth Forum Leadership Development Workshop at VGEC on August 23, 2025. The event began with an inspiring inaugural address by Shri. B.K. Patel ji.
The day featured Surya Namaskar and Self-Defence Training, which energized the participants, followed by engaging games such as Chakkar Bham, ArshPath, and a Treasure Hunt that enhanced teamwork and leadership spirit. A group discussion on “Qualities of a Leader” and presentations on leadership further enriched the participants. The session concluded with motivating words from Shri I.N. Trivedi Sir. In the special Ahvaan session, Smt. Dhrumaben shared valuable insights on leadership, inspiring the youth.

The programme had a total of 207 participants, including 158 youth participants, 35 organizing team members, 6 Vyavastha team members, and 4 others.

Godhra Vibhag – Adventure Tour and Leadership Workshop
The Godhra Karyasthan organized an Adventure Tour and Leadership Workshop on August 21, 2025, for the students of Shri Sarvajanik Commerce College. The event was conducted in two phases: the first was a leadership development workshop, followed by an adventure trip.
Participants visited Khuniya Mahadev, located at the foothills of Pavagadh and established by Sage Vishwamitra. Surrounded by lush forests, the temple’s scenic monsoon beauty enthralled the students, who also enjoyed bathing in the rain. Later, they visited Zund Hanuman, where they witnessed Bhim’s bell, a well built by Arjuna, and other sites linked to the Mahabharata. The youth also held discussions on Universal Brotherhood Day and Ignited Youth Forum, along with trekking, devotional songs, word games, and singing sessions.
The event saw participation from 34 youth and 6 organizers.

Residential Camp for YCC Participants at Guwahati

Vivekananda Kendra, Kamrup Vibhag organized a Residential Camp for the participants of the Yoga Certificate Course (Batch-9) from 23rd and 24th August 2025 at Vivekananda Kendra, Panbazar, Guwahati. A total of 45 participants attended the residential camp.

The camp was conducted under the guidance of Aadharneeya Shri Ravi Sharma Ji, Akhil Bharatiya Yoga Pramukh of Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, who also blessed the participants during the Samapan Samaroh. In his address at the Samapan Samaroh, Aadharneeya Ravi Ji explained the significance of attending the residential camp and elaborated on Swami Vivekananda’s message.

One participant from each Yoga Certificate Course group shared their experiences, expressing joy and gratitude for this enriching opportunity. The event was graced by the presence of Adharneeya Subrata Mukherjee, Assam Prant Karyalaya Pramukh, and Adharneeya Alaka Gauri Didi, Assam Prant Sangathak.

Over the two days, participants attended sessions on Indian culture, in-depth studies on Ashtanga Yoga, and practical sessions that included Cyclic Meditation and Trataka, conducted by Ad. Ravi Ji. A melodious patriotic group song was also presented by Adharneeya Smita Didi, Jeevan-vrati Karyakarta of Vivekananda Kendra, Kamrup Vibhag.

The program concluded with the Kendra Prarthana, leaving participants inspired and spiritually enriched.

Ganesha Idol-Making Workshop at Hebbal

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, Hebbal Nagar Branch organized a Ganesha Idol-Making Workshop on 23rd August 2025 from 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Vivekananda Kendra Karyalaya, Coffee Board Layout, Hebbal. A total of 26 participants, including the Dhruva and Nachiketa Samskara Vargas, attended the workshop.

The session was held in preparation for Ganesh Chaturthi, where the children learnt to make eco-friendly Ganesha idols for worship at their homes. This creative and engaging activity not only promoted environmental awareness but also helped the children develop a deeper spiritual connection with Lord Ganesha.

Mananeeya Eknathji Punyatithi observed at RT Nagar

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, RT Nagar Branch observed the Punyatithi of Mananeeya Eknathji Ranade on 23rd August 2025 at Samhita School of Performing Arts. A total of 27 participants attended the programme.

Mananeeya Shri Eknathji Ranade (19 November 1914 – 22 August 1982), the spirit behind the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the founder of Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, lived a life that inspired hundreds of people to dedicate themselves to the service of the nation.

The Punyatithi was observed as part of the Bhajan Sandhya. Smt. Thara Didi narrated a brief account of the life and contributions of Ma. Eknath Ji, inspiring everyone with his dedication and vision. A devotional Vandana Abhinadana song was then led by Bharath Ji, adding a soulful dimension to the programme.

The event concluded with the chanting of Shanti Mantra and Kendra Prarthana. Prasada was distributed to all the participants, marking the end of the observance.

Universal Brotherhood Day Competitions in Mysore

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, Mysore Branch organized a series of cultural competitions on the occasion of Universal Brotherhood Day on 23rd August 2025 at Govinda Rao Memorial Hall. A total of 204 students from various schools and colleges—including Sharada High School and Primary, Vanita Sadana High School and Primary, Bruspatacharya High School, Pragati High School and Primary, Pragati Elite, Sadvidya, Dalavai, Shakti Dhama High School and Primary, SDM PU College, Marimallappa PU College, Shakti Dhama College, and Vivekananda Kendra Computer Centre—participated with great enthusiasm. They were accompanied by 13 teachers, 18 karyakartas, and 12 parents.

The programme commenced with children lighting the ceremonial lamp. Sri Rameshji, Prakashana Pramukh of VK-KPV, addressed the gathering and highlighted the significance of Universal Brotherhood Day as well as the activities of Vivekananda Kendra. The event was anchored by Kum. Vedavati, a student of the Vivekananda Kendra Computer Centre. Competitions included patriotic group songs, essay writing, quiz, and Swami Vivekananda Vesha Sparde.

Smt. Vasumati Didi, Soumya Didi, and Smt. Gayatri Akka served as judges for the events. A special highlight of the day was the distribution of certificates to the first batch of Computer Diploma students, marking a milestone for the centre.

The celebration concluded on an inspiring note, leaving students and participants imbued with the spirit of Swami Vivekananda’s message of universal brotherhood.

Eknathji’s Punya Tithi Observed with Reverence by VKV Kanyakumari

Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Kanyakumari(Tamil Nadu Prant), observed the Punya Tithi of Mananeeya Shri Eknathji Ranade, the founder of Vivekananda Kendra, with devotion and reverence on 22nd August, 2025. The solemn programme was held at the Samadhi of Eknathji Ranade in Vivekanandapuram from 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. The event was attended by 111 members, including 104 students of Class VII, six teachers, and one Jeevan Vrati Karyakarta.

The programme began with three Omkaras and the chanting of the Shanti Pat, creating a devotional atmosphere. Students recited verses from the Karma Yoga Sloka Samgraha, followed by a speech on the life and message of Eknathji by P.S. Sudharshini (Class VII-C). The gathering was further inspired by a soulful rendition of the devotional song “Vandana Abinandana”.

Addressing the gathering, Aadaraneeya Radha Devi Didi, Tamil Nadu and Kerala Prant Sangathak highlighted the timeless values embodied by Eknathji:

• The Karmayogi spirit of selfless service with purity and dedication.
• Faith in inner goodness, inspiring one to bring out the best in others.
• Detachment and cheerfulness, accepting both success and failure with balance.
• Awareness and sensitivity to the needs of society.
• Recognition of noble souls and their selfless service to the nation.

Didi also explained Bhagavad Gita Shloka 18.26, where a sattvika karta works without attachment or ego, with steadiness, enthusiasm, and balance. She reflected on how Eknathji’s life itself was a living example of this teaching—discipline, cheerfulness, and total dedication to Swami Vivekananda’s mission and the service of the nation.

The programme concluded with the Shanti Mantra, the Kendra Prarthana led by the Principal, and Pushpanjali at Eknathji’s Samadhi by the students and teachers.

The entire observance carried the essence of Karma Yoga—working selflessly, cheerfully, and in service of society and the nation.

Vinayaga Chaturthi Celebration at VKV Vallioor

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Vallioor (VKV-Vallioor), celebrated Vinayaga Chathurthi in a grand and devotional manner from 21st to 28th August 2025 in the school premises. A total of 809 students and teachers participated in the celebration. Vinayaka Chathurthi, one of the most revered and popular festivals of the Hindu tradition, is observed annually to honour Lord Ganesha.

The idol of Lord Ganesha was prepared with the involvement of students from Classes VIII, IX, and XII. Each day during the celebration, students worshipped Lord Ganesha by offering flowers and prasadam, while chanting mantras during the pooja. After the pooja, prasadam was distributed to both students and staff.

On the concluding day, 28th August 2025, the final day pooja was conducted in a grand manner by students of Classes X, XI, and XII. Following the rituals, the idol of Lord Ganesha was taken in procession for Visarjanam with devotion and enthusiasm. The entire celebration was conducted with great fervour and concluded on an auspicious note with the blessings of Lord Ganesha.

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.

 

Gokulashtami and Rakshabandhan Celebration at VKV Vallioor

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Vallioor (VKV-Vallioor), celebrated Gokulashtami and Rakshabandhan on 19th August 2025 in the school premises. The programme, attended by 807 students and 96 parents, commenced at 10.30 am with Shri Ganapathi, P.A. to the District Collector (Retd.), as the Chief Guest. The Correspondent and the Principal also graced the occasion.

The celebration began with a prayer song rendered by the Kindergarten students, followed by the traditional lamp lighting by the Chief Guest, Correspondent, and Principal. A warm welcome was extended by Kum. Shaini of Class IX. Students chanted verses from the Bhagavad Gita, and a graceful dance performance depicting the divine charm of Lord Krishna added vibrancy to the occasion.

Teachers Smt. Mari and Smt. Subbulakshmi delivered insightful speeches in English and Tamil respectively on the significance of Krishna Jeyanthi and Raksha Bandhan. A cultural programme highlighted Krishna’s playful spirit through dance, and the traditional “Uriyadi” (pot-breaking) was enacted, adding authenticity to the celebrations. Disguised Krishnas and Radhas were appreciated with compliments, and Lord Krishna symbolically distributed snacks to the gathering.

The Raksha Bandhan ritual was observed as students tied rakhis to their brothers and sisters. Prizes were awarded to winners of various competitions conducted earlier. The Chief Guest delivered the felicitation address, sharing valuable thoughts with the gathering. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by B. Sudiksha of Class IX, followed by Kendra Prayer. Parents actively participated and appreciated the celebration, making the event memorable.

Gokulashtami and Rakshabandhan Celebration at VKV Kanyakumari

Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu Prant), celebrated Gokulashtami and Rakshabandhan on 18th August 2025 at 2.00 p.m. in the school ground. A total of 1,320 students actively took part in the celebration.

The programme was presided over by Aadharneeya Radha Didi, Tamil Nadu Prant Sangathak, VRM & VK, with Sri. N. Neelakandan ji, Retd. Headmaster, Kottaram Govt. Hr. Sec. School as the Chief Guest. The programme was compered by Kum. Saranya of Class XI.

The celebration began with an invocation song by students of Classes VI and VII, followed by a welcome address by Sri Mathivathan Gaurav of Class VII. A devotional Krishna song presented by the girls of Classes VII and VIII filled the atmosphere with divinity. The importance of the day was highlighted in Tamil by Kum. D. B. Shobana of Class VII, who explained the cultural and spiritual significance of both Gokulashtami and Rakshabandhan.

The Chief Guest, Sri. Neelakandan, then addressed the gathering with an inspiring speech. He emphasized the spiritual and cultural values of the festivals and advised students to cultivate discipline through spiritual learning. Quoting Swami Vivekananda, he reminded everyone that true education includes both academics and values. He narrated stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and the life of Lord Krishna, also sharing insights from the Krishna Bhakti Movement (ISKCON) in London. He explained that devotion makes life smooth, comparing bhakti to a boat that helps us cross the ocean of life with ease. He further highlighted the significance of Rakshabandhan, recalling the divine bond between Subhadra and Lord Krishna. His words left a lasting impression on the students and audience.

The Rakhi tying ceremony followed, where Kum. T. N. Ritu of Class XI tied Rakhi to her younger brother Saravanan of Class VII, symbolizing love and protection. Students also tied Rakhi to the dignitaries, making the occasion memorable. Aa. Radha Didi then greeted everyone, urging them to pledge to protect the Nation and Culture while developing themselves. She reminded the students to face challenges like Lord Krishna, with courage and positivity.

The programme gained festive vibrancy with the Uriyadi celebration. A boy dressed as Krishna, accompanied by girls as Radha, performed graceful dances. The highlight was the joyful breaking of the pot by “Krishna,” symbolizing victory and devotion. This was followed by the prize distribution ceremony for academic toppers, announced by Smt. Menaga Devi, teacher of VKV. A memento was then presented to the Chief Guest by Aa. Radha Didi.

The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Kum. Harshithasri of Class VII, followed by the chanting of the Shanti Mantra, leaving the gathering with a sense of devotion, festivity, and cultural pride.