Dhyan–Pranayama Shibir at Jorhat

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Assam Prant, Rongpur Vibhag,Jorhat Branch, in association with Sri Sri Satyanarayan Seva Kendra, Jorhat, successfully organized a three-day Dhyan–Pranayama Shibir from 21st to 23rd December 2025 at Sri Sri Satyanarayan Seva Kendra, Jorhat, on the occasion of World Meditation Day.

 The non-residential shibir witnessed the participation of 25 people, mainly comprising regular Yoga Varga practitioners and members of Sri Sri Satyanarayan Seva Kendra.

The shibir was conducted under the guidance of Aadaraneeya Kum. Alaka Gauri Joshi didi, Assam Prant Sangathak, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, who served as the resource person throughout the camp. The daily routine included stretching exercises, systematic practice of pranayamas, followed by Nada Anusandhan and Japa Dhyan, enabling participants to experience both physical relaxation and mental clarity.

During the baudhik sessions, the importance of Ashtanga Yoga in daily life was explained in a simple and practical manner, helping participants understand how yogic discipline supports holistic well-being, inner balance, and spiritual growth. The sessions were interactive and experiential, allowing participants to deepen their understanding of meditation and pranayama practices.

Participants shared positive feedback, expressing a sense of calmness, improved concentration, and renewed enthusiasm for regular practice. The concluding session reinforced the relevance of meditation in modern life and encouraged continuity in sadhana.

As a follow-up, it has been planned to organize similar short-duration Dhyan–Pranayama Shibirs in the future at Sri Sri Satyanarayan Seva Kendra, particularly for residents of nearby localities. Additionally, the Yuva Pramukh of Rongpur Vibhag has been requested to conduct weekly Dhyan–Pranayama sessions for the regular Yoga Varga practitioners of the Seva Kendra.

Spiritual Retreat 2026 - Kanyakumari

Spiritual Retreat  (Eng & Hindi)

February 18 to 24 2026 (Reporting by 17 Feb 3.00 PM )

Age in Years: 18 to 65

Camp Contribution : Rs. 4000/-Click for Registration

Samuhik Surya Namaskar organized on Swami Vivekananda Jayanti by VKNRL Hospital and VKNRL School of Nursing

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Assam Prant, Vivekananda Kendra NRL Hospital and Vivekananda Kendra NRL School of Nursing organized a Samuhik Surya Namaskar on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda Jayanti & National Youth Day on January 12th 2025 at Doigrung TE Playground, Purabungla. The program was conducted with a total of 1,270 participants.

National Youth Day is celebrated on January 12 to honor the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, the patriotic monk and eternal inspiration to India’s youth. 

The event was designed to encourage students from nearby schools to adopt a healthy and disciplined lifestyle, demonstrating a powerful collective commitment to fitness. By channeling the profound teachings of Swami Vivekananda, the celebration went beyond simple exercise.

The program concluded by successfully motivating the local youth to uphold high moral values and a strong sense of social responsibility.

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti at the VKNRL Hospital

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Assam Prant, Vivekananda Kendra NRL Hospital observed Swami Vivekananda Jayanti (National Youth Day) on January 12th 2025 at the VKNRL Hospital Conference Hall. The programme was conducted with great solemnity and spiritual fervor, with a total of 93 participants.

National Youth Day is celebrated on January 12 to honor the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, the patriotic monk and eternal inspiration to India’s youth.

The program commenced with the Mangalacharanam and a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, setting a peaceful and reflective tone for the day. Participants engaged in Bhajans and various other devotional activities that highlighted the spiritual heritage of Bharat. The program concluded with the Kendra Prarthana.

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti - National Youth Day celebration at Hebbal

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, Hebbal Branch organized the Swami Vivekananda Jayanti & National Youth Day celebration on 11th January 2026, from 5.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m., at Sunrise School, Hebbal Kempapura. The program was conducted with the active involvement of 25 karyakartas and witnessed the enthusiastic participation of nearly 600 participants, making it a large-scale and impactful celebration.

Extensive planning was undertaken over several weeks to ensure smooth execution of the event. Karyakartas reached the venue a day in advance and again on the morning of the program to finalize arrangements and ensure readiness in all aspects.

The program was graced by eminent chief guests Mananeeya Kum. Nivedita Bhide Didi, Padma Shri awardee and All India Vice President of Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Vivekananda Kendra; Dr. Vijayalakshmi Deshamane Ji, Padma Shri awardee and eminent oncologist; and Smt. Shakunthala Bhandarkar Ji, Co-Founder and Director of the Metamorphes Foundation. The event commenced with the Shanti Pat, followed by Vande Mataram song and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Shri A. P. Prasad Ji, Karnataka Prant Pramukh, delivered the welcome address.

The cultural segment featured a series of performances including an invocation song by students of Nachiketa Samskaravarga, Bharatanatyam by Anjali Nrithyalaya, a Yoga Dance, the song Amrit Parivar, and a skit depicting the life of Swami Vivekananda. Shri Chandrasekhar Tejaswi Anna, Hebbal Nagar Pramukh, introduced Vivekananda Kendra and presented the annual report of VK Hebbal activities, followed by a Kathak dance performance.

The keynote address was delivered by Smt. Shakunthala Bhandarkar Ji, who shared an inspiring video on the life of her husband, Late Lt. Col. Ajit V. Bhandarkar, Shaurya Chakra awardee. She spoke about her personal journey, the challenges she faced, and her efforts to support and inspire others through the Metamorphes Foundation.

The program continued with a yoga dance by Nachiketa Samskara Varga students, the song Bharata Nariyara Thanda, and a skit titled Andu Indu, effectively portraying cultural transitions between earlier and present generations. This was followed by Kolkali by the Samanvaya team and Bharatanatyam by students of Gowri Nrithyalaya.

In her address, Mananeeya Nivedita Didi reflected on the lives and ideals of Swami Vivekananda and Eknathji, emphasizing their relevance in contemporary times and highlighting the crucial role of youth power in nation-building.

The cultural segment continued with Yoga Formations, Kolatta dance, the song Murtha Maheshwara, a Yoga Dance, and Thiruvathira Dance by the Samanvaya team, with a challenging yoga formation drawing special appreciation from the audience.

The concluding address was delivered by Dr. Vijayalakshmi Deshamane Ji, who shared insights from her life journey and emphasized the practical relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s message in daily life. Scholarships were distributed to deserving and needy students, adding a meaningful dimension to the celebration.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Sitalakshmi Ji, followed by the Shanti Mantra. Dinner prasad was arranged for all participants, and the event concluded successfully with the participation of nearly 600 attendees, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

National Youth Day and School’s Annual Day Celebration at VKV Vallioor

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Vallioor (VKV-Vallioor), celebrated Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, National Youth Day, and the Annual Day – 2026 on 12th January 2026 at the school premises. The programme was conducted in a grand and well-organized manner and witnessed the participation of 1,120 participants, including students,teachers, parents, and invitees, of whom nearly 800 parents were present.

The function commenced at 5.30 p.m. with a prayer song rendered by the school choir, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries on the dais. The programme was presided over by the Chief Guest, Yateswari Neelakanda Amba, Secretary of Saradha Schools, Tirunelveli. Sri Ayyappan Ji, Secretary, RDP, Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, graced the occasion as the Special Guest. The dignitaries were warmly received by the reception committee along with Sri S. K. Subramanian Ji, Correspondent, and Smt. S. Esakkiammal @ Devi, Principal of the school.

Miss Nisha, a teacher of the school, formally welcomed the gathering, after which the Principal, Smt. S. Esakkiammal, presented the extended annual report highlighting the academic, co-curricular, and value-based activities of the institution. The Chief Guest delivered the presidential address, inspiring the gathering with her words, followed by a felicitatory address by Sri Ayyappan Ji. Merit awardees, sports achievers, and E.A. toppers were honoured by the dignitaries on the dais, acknowledging the students’ all-round excellence.

A vibrant and colourful cultural programme followed, beginning with Bharatanatyam and continuing with a variety of performances. A special Villupattu presented by the students effectively conveyed the message of Vivekananda Kendra’s service activities to society. The cultural segment also included a thought-provoking mime, an engaging English drama, a devotional Tamil drama, and charming performances by the KG and Class I students, all of which were warmly appreciated by the audience.

Refreshments were arranged for all parents and students. Smt. Kowsalya, a teacher of the school, delivered the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with the Kendra Prarthana. Transportation arrangements were made for parents and teachers to ensure their safe return.

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti and National Youth Day Celebration at RT Nagar

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, RT Nagar Nagarsthan observed Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, commemorated as National Youth Day, on 12th January 2026 at Samhita School of Performing Arts. The programme witnessed the participation of 54 attendees, including 51 students and 3 teachers.

The celebration commenced with Deepa Prajwalan, performed by the students of Samskara Varga, setting an inspiring tone for the programme. The students then presented Vivekavani, narrating and explaining its meaning with clarity and confidence. Smt. Thara Didi addressed the gathering, elaborating on Swami Vivekananda’s ideals and the qualities to be imbibed in daily life, and also briefly spoke about the life and contribution of Rajamata Jijabai.

Shri Tarun Anna led the Geeth “Bane Hum Rashtra ke Yogi,” which infused enthusiasm and patriotic fervour among the participants. This was followed by an interactive quiz on the life and message of Swami Vivekananda, conducted by Shri Bharath Ji, in which all students participated with keen interest.

As a mark of reverence, all students and karyakartas offered pushpanjali to Swami Vivekananda, seeking his blessings. The programme concluded with the recitation of the Shanti Mantra and Kendra Prarthana, leaving the participants inspired by the life and message of Swami Vivekananda.

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti and National Youth Day Celebration at Government School in Manorayanapalya

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, RT Nagar Nagarsthan observed Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, commemorated as National Youth Day, on 12th January 2026 at the Government School, Manorayanapalya. The programme was attended by a total of 71 participants, comprising 62 students, 6 teachers, and 3 karyakartas.

The programme commenced with a prayer led by Shri Mahesh, a student of Samskara Varga, setting a solemn and devotional tone. This was followed by Deepa Prajwalan and Pooja to Swami Vivekananda, performed by the karyakartas and teachers. The Headmistress of the school delivered the welcome address, highlighting the relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s ideals for students.

Students Shri Siddharth, Kum. Chinmay, Kum. Bipana, and Kum. Ranu Devi presented Vivekavani with enthusiasm and confidence, inspiring the gathering. Smt. Thara Didi addressed the students, speaking about Swami Vivekananda’s childhood and emphasizing the values of discipline, character, and self-confidence that today’s youth need to imbibe. Shri Bharath Ji then led the group singing of the Geet “Jaya Vivekananda Guruvara,” which further elevated the patriotic and inspirational atmosphere.

The Cluster Resource Person (CRP) from the Educational Department also addressed the gathering and encouraged the conduct of more such value-based programmes for students. The celebration concluded with the recitation of the Shanti Mantra, marking a meaningful and inspiring observance of Swami Vivekananda Jayanti.

Samarth Bharat Parva and Swami Vivekananda Jayanti Celebration at Jorhat

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Assam Prant, Rongpur Vibhag, Jorhat Branch, organized the Samarth Bharat Parva and Swami Vivekananda Jayanti Celebration on 11 January 2026 at Chandra Kamal Baruah Commerce College, Jorhat. The program witnessed the participation of 170 participants, including students, parents, academicians, and members of the local public.

The program commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Sri Sunit Baruah, Senior Karyakarta of Vivekananda Kendra, Jorhat Nagarsthan, and Smt. Gita Medak, Bivag Pramukh of VK Rongpur Bivag. This was followed by a graceful Satriya dance presented by Smt. Shreya Bordoloi, a student of Sanskar Varg. Smt. Tunmoni Bora, Nagar Karya Paddhati Pramukh, welcomed the gathering and highlighted the main objective of observing Samarth Bharat Parv and Vivekananda Jayanti.

The keynote address was delivered by Kum. Meera Kulkarni Didi, Secretary, Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture, who spoke in depth about the transformational journey of Narendranath Datta into Swami Vivekananda. She highlighted Swamiji’s intense spiritual struggles, his prolonged inner conflict, and the practical hardships that shaped him into a spiritual luminary of India.

This was followed by a devotional Borgeet rendered by Shri Jyotiranjan Bora ji, accompanied by Shri Pritam Bora ji on the khol, which created a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The second lecture was delivered by Dr. Bhupen Baruah ji, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, Jagannath Baruah University, Jorhat, who spoke on India’s achievements in the IT and space sectors as pillars of a Samarth Bharat. He also emphasized the role of parents in nurturing children’s intellect and responsibly managing their screen habits.

The Swadesh Mantra was read by Smt. Sanhita Puzari and collectively recited by the gathering, reinforcing the spirit of national responsibility. Sri Nalin Sharma ji, Vibhag Sah Sanchalak of Rongpur Vibhag, offered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, participants, and organizers. The cultural segment concluded with the rendition of Assam’s Jatiya Sangeet, “O Mur Apunar Desh,” by the students and parents of Bina Kala Niketan.

Following this, Sri Pranjal Sharma, Yuva Pramukh of Rongpur Vibhag, made a special announcement highlighting the ongoing and upcoming activities of Vivekananda Kendra, Jorhat, and appealed to the gathering for active participation and support. The entire program was smoothly and effectively compered by Sri Niraj Sankar Bordoloi ji, iT Pramukh of Rongpur Vibhag.

A book fair of Vivekananda Kendra Prakashan publications was organized simultaneously at the venue and received an encouraging response from the participants and the general public. As part of the Samarth Bharat Parv, a Bharat Mata Pujan was conducted at the college premises after the conclusion of the Vivekananda Jayanti program. The local public participated joyously in the Bharat Mata Aarti, and a Bharat Mata Bhajan was rendered by Shri Kaustav Saikia ji, Niwasi Karyakarta of Vivekananda Kendra, Jorhat, bringing the celebrations to a spiritually uplifting conclusion.

Samartha Bharat Parva Celebration at Kallubalu

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, Kallubalu Nagarasthan celebrated Samartha Bharat Parva on 09th January 2026 at the Anandalaya in Kallubalu, from 6:10 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A total of 39 participants, comprising 34 students, 2 parents, and 3 Acharyas, were present for the programme.

The celebration was observed through a Bhajan Sandhya, which created a devotional and inspiring atmosphere among the participants. During the programme, discussions were held with the students and Acharyas on the importance of bhajans in nurturing devotion, discipline, and collective harmony. The session helped deepen the participants’ understanding of the role of bhajans in spiritual and cultural development, aligning with the spirit and ideals of Samartha Bharat Parva.

Mananeeya Dr. M. Lakshmi Kumari Didi Conferred with Dharma Ratna Puraskar - Kerala

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 Dharma Ratna Puraskar – 2025, presented by Samskriti, Nanmanda, Kerala, an organization dedicated to the preservation and perpetuation of dharmic values through living practice. She is currently the Director & Chairperson of the Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation at Kodungallur.

The Dharma Ratna Puraskar is instituted to honour individuals who exemplify the eternal principles of Sanātana Dharma and commit themselves to the cultural and spiritual upliftment of society through their work and conduct.

This year, the award is being presented to Mananeeya Dr. Lakshmi Kumari in recognition of her distinguished and selfless service to society through education and cultural upliftment, and for her lifelong commitment to the eternal values of Sanātana Dharma. Through her exemplary conduct and tireless efforts, she has embodied the principles of dharma, seva, karuṇā, and saṃskāra. Her remarkable contributions reflect a rare harmony of knowledge and practice, where tradition is not merely preserved, but lived, renewed, and transmitted for the present age. As a living torch bearer of Sanātana Dharma values, her service continues to inspire individuals and institutions alike. Vivekananda Kendra Karyakartas are proud and delighted for this recognition of her dedicated work in strengthening society and guiding future generations. 

10-Day Yoga Satra at Hebbal

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, Mysore Nagarsthan organizing a 10-day Yoga Satra, which was inaugurated on 5 January 2026 at the Vivekananda Youth Movement Campus, Hebbal, and is scheduled to conclude on 15 January 2026. A total of 78 participants are attending the Satra.

The Yoga Satra was designed to introduce participants to the holistic concept of yoga and its practical relevance in daily life. Each session began with a prayer, setting a disciplined and serene atmosphere for learning and practice.

The programme included theoretical sessions explaining the meaning of yoga and its benefits for physical, mental, and emotional well-being, along with practical sessions comprising loosening exercises, asanas, guided breathing practices and Pranayama. Interactive games were also incorporated to encourage participation.

The Yoga Satra is being conducted systematically, with active participation from the attendees, and is contributing positively towards promoting a healthy and disciplined lifestyle rooted in yogic values.

 

Samartha Bharatha Parva – Darshanam Walkathon

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, R.T. Nagar Nagarsthan organized DARSHANAM – a Walkathon covering 11 temples in R.T. Nagar as part of Samartha Bharatha Parva celebrations on 4 January 2026 (Sunday). The spiritually enriching programme witnessed the participation of 57 devotees, including children, karyakartas, and guests.

The programme commenced with a prayer, followed by a briefing on the significance of Darshanam by Nagar Pramukh Shri Bharath Ji and Prant Vyavastha Pramukh Shri Pradeep Ji, highlighting the spiritual and cultural importance of temple visit as a collective sadhana. Participants were then organized into ganas (teams), and the walkathon was systematically led by the karyakartas.

Smt. Thara Didi (Sahitya Seva Pramukh) and Shri Bijoy Krishna Anna (Hebbal Nagar Yuva Pramukh) were present throughout the walkathon, guiding and encouraging the participants. Two guests, Smt. Sougandhi Didi and her daughter Ms. Aditi Akka from Yelahanka, also joined the programme and actively participated in the Darshanam.

The walkathon was conducted with great enthusiasm and devotion. At each of the 11 temples, participants sang bhajans of the respective deities, creating a deeply devotional atmosphere and immersing everyone in the spirit of Bhakti. Despite covering a distance of nearly 10 kilometers, the children remained energetic and expressed eagerness to continue visiting more temples. The guests conveyed their appreciation for the initiative and expressed interest in participating in future Kendra activities.

The temples visited during the Darshanam included Ganesha Temple (P & T Quarters), Thanga Malai Subramanya Hill Temple, Hanuman Temple, Shiva Temple (Kavalbyrasandra), Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt (L.R. Bande), Narasimha Temple (Manorayanapalya), Neelakanteshwara Temple (Chamundinagar), Muneshwara Temple, Kodanda Rama Temple, Chowdeshwari Temple (Dinnur), and Doddamma Temple (Manorayanapalya).

Overall, the Darshanam Walkathon proved to be a deeply devotional, physically invigorating, and spiritually uplifting experience, strengthening the participants’ connection with Bharatiya spiritual traditions and collective sadhana.

Kalpataru Diwas Celebration at RT Nagar

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant, RT Nagar Nagarsthan observed Kalpataru Diwas on 1st January 2026 at Samhita School of Performing Arts, with the participation of 44 attendees.

Kalpataru Diwas is observed on 1 January to commemorate the sacred occasion in 1886 when Takur Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, at the Cossipore Garden House (Udyanbati), bestowed his special blessings upon devotees—an event remembered as his divine self-revelation and an outpouring of grace.

The programme commenced with a prayer and the chanting of Guru Stavan, creating a devotional atmosphere. Smt. Thara Didi then spoke on the spiritual significance of Kalpataru Diwas and narrated inspiring incidents from the life of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, helping the children understand the deeper meaning of the observance.

Following the address, all the children reverently sought blessings and performed Aarati, marking the occasion with devotion and gratitude. The programme concluded in a serene and spiritually uplifting manner, leaving a lasting impression on the participants.