International Day of Yoga 2026 Celebrated at Nadar Higher Secondary School by VKRDP Kovilpatti

Vivekananda Kendra Rural Development Programme (RDP), Kovilpatti Branch (Tamil Nadu Prant) celebrated the International Day of Yoga 2026 on 21 June 2026 at Nadar Higher Secondary School, Kovilpatti.

The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Smt. Sakunthala, followed by an invocation song rendered by student Kum.Vaishnavi. The gathering was welcomed by Er. Ramesh Kumar, a well-wisher of Vivekananda Kendra

The function was presided over by Shri Rathina Raja, Secretary of Nadar Higher Secondary School, in the presence of the Headmaster, Shri Selvam. Dr. Balakrishnan, Medical Officer, Government Hospital, Kovilpatti, addressed the participants on the significance of yoga in promoting physical and mental well-being, especially in the context of this year’s International Day of Yoga theme, “Yoga for Healthy Aging.” Greetings were also offered by Shri Arumugam, Sah Prakalp Pramukh, VK RDP.

The practical yoga session was conducted by Shri Velusamy, Yoga Pramukh, Kovilpatti who led the participants through the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) prescribed by the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India. Students, teachers, and other participants actively took part in the session with enthusiasm and discipline.

More than 250 participants, including students and teachers from eight schools and one college, professors, educational administrators, members of the public, volunteers, Kendra sisters, and members of the Kendra Yoga Group, participated in the programme.

The event was coordinated by Advocate Shri Mohandas, a well-wisher of Vivekananda Kendra. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Paramaguru, In-charge of Vivekananda Kendra, Kovilpatti Branch, who had also organized and guided the successful conduct of the event.

International Day of Yoga 2026 at GVN College in Kovilpatti

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2026 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Rural Development Programme, Kovilpatti Branch (Tamil Nadu Prant), organized a yoga programme at G.V.N. College (Autonomous), Kovilpatti on 23 June 2026. The programme witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 400 students.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. T. Kothaiammal, Director of Physical Education. Dr. P. Mahendran, Secretary of the College, felicitated Shri Paramaguru, Sah Prakalp Sanghatak, Vivekananda Kendra Rural Development Project, while Dr. A. Pandiarani, Principal of the College, honoured Shri A. Veluchamy, Yoga Pramukh, Vivekananda Kendra Rural Development Project, Kovilpatti Branch.

The practical yoga session was jointly conducted by Shri Paramaguru and Shri A. Veluchamy following the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) prescribed by the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India. The session included loosening exercises, a systematic practice of yogasanas, pranayama, dhyana (meditation), and sankalpa. The participants actively performed the practices with sincerity and enthusiasm.

The programme also highlighted the significance of this year’s International Day of Yoga theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” emphasizing yoga as a lifelong practice for promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, and holistic health across all stages of life.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. K. Renuka Devi, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics. The enthusiastic participation of the students made the programme a meaningful and successful observance of International Day of Yoga 2026.

Universal Brotherhood Day Celebrated at KR College in Kovilpatti

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Rural Development Programme (VK-RDP), Kovilpatti Branch, organized Universal Brotherhood Day celebrations at KR College of Arts & Science, Kovilpatti on 13th September 2025 with enthusiastic participation from the student community.

The programme was presided over by Shri. Subburayalu, Professor, who also extended his support in coordinating the arrangements.

To mark the occasion, a quiz competition on the life of Swami Vivekananda was conducted. Students participated with great interest and answered the questions actively, reflecting their keen knowledge and admiration for Swamiji’s ideals. Prizes were distributed to those who came forward with correct responses, which encouraged all participants to engage further with Swamiji’s inspiring life journey.

Shri. Paramaguru Anna, Joint Secretary of VK-RDP addressed the gathering and spoke on the significance of Universal Brotherhood Day. In his talk, he emphasized Swami Vivekananda’s historic call for unity and harmony at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago and reminded students of the importance of imbibing the value of brotherhood in their personal and social lives.

The celebration witnessed the participation of 60 students, making the programme lively and interactive.

The event not only reminded the students of Swami Vivekananda’s vision of universal harmony but also motivated them to practice the spirit of brotherhood in their everyday life, strengthening values of unity and mutual respect in society. 

Universal Brotherhood Day Celebrated at Unnamalai College in Kovilpatti

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Rural Development Programme (VK-RDP), Kovilpatti Branch, celebrated Universal Brotherhood Day at Unnamalai College of Arts and Science, Kovilpatti, on 12 September 2025 with the enthusiastic participation of 200 participants including students, professors, and volunteers.

The event was presided over by Dr. Annamalaiswamy, Principal of the college, who in his presidential address spoke on the essence of universal brotherhood and stressed the need for cultivating harmony among human beings.

Shri. Paramaguru Anna, Joint Secretary of VKRDP, delivered a motivating speech on Swami Vivekananda’s historic address at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago. He emphasized the relevance of brotherhood in today’s world and underlined the significant role students play in fostering unity and positive change in society.

As part of the celebration, elocution and quiz competitions were conducted for the students, providing a platform for them to express their ideas and knowledge. Associate Professor Smt. Bharathi, Department of Tamil, distributed prizes in the form of books to the participants, encouraging them to continue learning and reflecting on Swamiji’s teachings.

A book stall featuring Vivekananda Kendra publications was organized at the venue, supported by Kendra volunteers, enabling students to gain access to inspiring literature. The event witnessed the presence of faculty members, a large number of students, and enthusiastic Youth Red Cross volunteers.

The smooth execution of the event was made possible with the dedicated arrangements by Smt. Bharathi, Associate Professor of Tamil, and Shri. Muthuraja, Youth Red Cross Coordinator.

The celebration successfully brought together students and faculty in the spirit of Swami Vivekananda’s message of Universal Brotherhood. Through speeches, competitions, and the distribution of books, the programme inspired the young generation to imbibe values of unity, service, and shared responsibility in shaping a harmonious society.

Universal Brotherhood Day Celebrated at GVN College in Kovilpatti

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Rural Development Programme (VK-RDP), Kovilpatti Branch, organized Universal Brotherhood Day celebrations at G. Venkatasamy Naidu College, Kovilpatti, on September 11, 2025, with enthusiastic participation from both faculty members and students.

The programme on September 11th at the Self-Financing Wing of the College was presided over by Professor and Director Shri. Mahesh Kumar, who delivered the presidential address highlighting the message of brotherhood. In this session, Shri. Suriyakumar, a student and also a Vivekananda Kendra volunteer, delivered an inspiring speech on Swami Vivekananda’s historic Chicago Address before an audience of more than 250 students. The programme was also graced by the Head of Tamil Department and professors from various disciplines along with Kendra representatives.

At another session held on September 29, 2025, Principal Smt. Subbulakshmi presided over the event with her welcome address. Shri. Paramaguru, Joint Secretary of VKRDP, elaborated on the significance of Universal Brotherhood Day, recalling events from Swami Vivekananda’s life and explaining their relevance to today’s youth. An interactive quiz session was also held for the students, with prizes distributed to participants who responded enthusiastically. The event witnessed active support from Professor Smt. Sankareswari (Tamil Department), Associate Professor Shri. Ashok Kumar, and other faculty members, which added further significance to the gathering.

Across both sessions, more than 400 students participated with energy and eagerness, reflecting their deep interest in Swamiji’s inspiring life and message.

The Universal Brotherhood Day celebrations at G. Venkatasamy Naidu College successfully spread the ideals of unity, service, and harmony through inspiring lectures, interactive sessions, and student involvement.

District-Level Cultural Competitions for Urban Schools Organised by VKRDP at Kovilpatti

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant,Rural Development Programme (VKRDP), Kovilpatti branch organized District-Level Cultural Competitions for urban school students of Thoothukudi district on 9th August, 2025 at Sowbhagya Hall, Kovilpatti.

The programme began with the lighting of the lamp by Smt. Shanthi, teacher from CKT Nursery and Primary School, Kovilpatti, followed by Prarthana, and a welcome address. Information regarding the events was then shared with the participants.

A wide range of competitions—including storytelling, elocution, music, drawing, recitation, mono acting, and Thirukkural recitation—were conducted, giving students a platform to display their creativity and oratory skills. The contests witnessed enthusiastic participation, with 124 students from 13 schools competing. They were accompanied by 20 teachers, 13 parents, 5 volunteers, along with RDP balasevikas and balwadi supervisors.

The competitions were judged by balasevikas, balwadi supervisors, and well-wishers of Kendra. The winners were honored with certificates and prizes, presented by the venue manager, well-wishers, parents, and teachers, creating an encouraging atmosphere for the young participants.

The entire event was coordinated and organized by Shri Paramaguru Anna, Joint Secretary, VKRDP, who ensured smooth conduct and active involvement of all.

The programme not only brought out the hidden talents of students but also strengthened cultural values and community spirit among the younger generation.

Guru Purnima Celebration by VKRDP Kovilpatti Branch

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Rural Development Programme (VKRDP), Kovilpatti Branch organised the Gurupurnima celebration on Ashadha Purnima (10th July 2025) at the Punitha Ohm Global CBSE School, Kovilpatti. The programme witnessed the participation of over 80 people including students, teachers, and Kendra karyakarthas.

The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the School Director, Smt. Usha Rani. This was followed by a warm welcome address delivered by the Tamil teacher, Smt. Pitchammal. The School Principal, Smt. Pon Thanga Maheswari, delivered the address, highlighting the significance of the Guru in shaping the lives of students and society.

Kendra well-wisher and Yoga teacher, Shri. Velusamy, also graced the occasion and shared his thoughts with the gathering. Shri. Paramaguru Ji, Joint Secretary of the Vivekananda Kendra Rural Development Programme, delivered a thought-provoking speech on the greatness of the Guru and the timeless relevance of the Guru-Shishya tradition in Indian culture.

The event concluded with the chanting of the Shanti Mantra, invoking peace and divine blessings.

Kendra sisters Smt. Jayalakshmi, Smt. Sangeetha, and Smt. Avudaiyammal were actively present and helped in coordinating the event. All the participants offered Pushpanjali to Omkar and paid their heartfelt Guru Vandana in a spirit of reverence and gratitude.

International Day of Yoga 2025 Celebration at Unnamalai College in Kovilpatti

 

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Rural Development Programme, Kovilpatti branch, organized the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations with a special yoga session at Unnamalai College of Arts and Science, Kovilpatti. The event aimed to spread awareness on the importance of yoga and its relevance in maintaining a balanced and harmonious lifestyle, especially among the youth.

The program witnessed enthusiastic participation from 125 college students, who performed various yogasanas and breathing practices under the guidance of Shri Veluswamy ji, Yoga Pramukh, VK-RDP Kovilpatti, and Shri Paramaguru Anna, Prakalp Sah Sanghatak of VK-RDP. The session was based on the Common Yoga Protocol developed by the Ministry of AYUSH.

Shri Annamalaisamy, Principal of the college, addressed the gathering and emphasized the deeper significance of yoga. He emphasised that yoga is not merely a physical exercise but a way to attain mental calmness, self-discipline, and orderly living. He encouraged students to make yoga a regular part of their lives for holistic development.

The program was organized with the support and guidance of Shri Vijayan, Correspondent of the college.

Shri Paramaguru Anna, in his address, shared the vision of Vivekananda Kendra and elaborated on the broader significance of the International Day of Yoga in nation-building and self-development.

The entire program was well-coordinated by the college professors and student volunteers, reflecting a collective spirit of seva, discipline, and cooperation.

International Day of Yoga Celebration at Nadar Higher Secondary School in Kovilpatti

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, Rural Development Programme (VK-RDP), Kovilpatti Branch, celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga with great enthusiasm and participation at Nadar Higher Secondary School, Kovilpatti on 21st June 2025, starting at 7:00 a.m.

The program commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Kendra volunteers Smt. Muthulakshmi and Smt. Anandhavalli Radhakrishnan.

The event was graced by Shri Rathinaraja, Secretary of Nadar Higher Secondary School, who served as the Chief Guest. In his inspiring address to the students, he emphasized the importance of yoga in building self-discipline, self-confidence, and enhancing concentration and memory power—qualities essential for academic and personal growth in students.

The program was also attended by Shri Arunachalam, Headmaster of the school, who appreciated the efforts taken to promote holistic well-being among students and the public through yoga.

As part of the celebration, the Common Yoga Protocol developed by the Ministry of AYUSH was practiced by all participants.

Shri Veluswamy ji, Yoga Pramukh, VK Kovilpatti, demonstrated the entire protocol with clarity and energy, enabling participants to follow and benefit from the session.

The event witnessed an overwhelming response with 270 participants, including school and college students, teachers, and members of the general public. The seamless organization of the program was made possible with the dedicated support of 20 Karyakartas, who ensured discipline and coordination throughout the event.

The entire program was organized under the guidance of Shri Paramaguru Anna, Sah Prakalp Sanghatak of VK-RDP. The event concluded with expressions of gratitude from the participants and school authorities, who appreciated Vivekananda Kendra’s efforts to instill the values of yoga and well-being in young minds.

Yoga Samavesh in Tamil Nadu Prant,Kovilpatti

In line with the 11th International Day of Yoga theme — “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”— the Ministry of AYUSH launched “Yoga Samavesh” as one of the ten signature events. Yoga Samavesh emphasizes inclusivity, offering tailored yoga practices for diverse population groups such as children, the differently-abled, senior citizens, women, and those with specific health conditions.

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant organized Yoga Samavesh programs at two special locations, focusing on extending the benefits of yoga to the differently-abled and individuals undergoing mental health rehabilitation. The celebrations brought together inclusivity, compassion, and spiritual upliftment through the transformative practice of yoga.

Yoga Samavesh at Auro World – Centre for Differently-Abled Children, Sattur.

The VK Rural Development Programme, Kovilpatti branch organized a Yoga Samavesh at Auro World – Centre for Differently-Abled Children, Sattur on 19th June 2025. A total of 45 children with special needs, along with their parents, participated in the session.

Shri Veluswamy ji, Yoga Pramukh, VK Kovilpatti, led the session.

Participants were guided through simple loosening exercises, breathing practices, and yoga asanas, all demonstrated in an accessible and engaging manner.

The teachers and staff at Auro World expressed heartfelt gratitude for the initiative and showed great enthusiasm to continue such beneficial practices in the future.

 

Preparatory Programme for International Day of Yoga at Kovilpatti

The International Day of Yoga is celebrated with great enthusiasm by all branch centers and projects of Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari across Bharat. These celebrations aim to bring Yoga to the public in its true essence, i.e., Yoga as a way of life based on the vision of Oneness.

As part of the preparations, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Prant, VK Rural Development Program (VKRDP), Kovilpatti Branch organized a preparatory programme on 10th June 2025 at the School Auditorium of Nadar Higher Secondary School, Kovilpatti.

The session began with a brief introduction on the significance of Yoga and the observance of International Day of Yoga. This was followed by practice sessions of loosening exercises, Yogasanas, and Pranayama, conducted in alignment with the Common Yoga Protocol issued by the Ministry of AYUSH.

The practice session was conducted by Sri Veluswamy ji, Yoga Pramukh, Kovilpatti, and Sri Paramaguru Anna, Prakalp Sah Sanghatak of VKRDP.

A total of 100 students from 7 schools, along with 10 accompanying teachers, enthusiastically participated in the programme.

National Youth Day Program at Kovilpatti

Swami Vivekananda Jeyanthi day & District level competition going on at Kovilpatti Nadar Hr Sec.School . From 76 Schools 300 students and 115 parents & teachers participating.

Students are joined the competitions as Elocution, story telling, music,drawing , memory ( Thirukural recited) etc...

New book compiled by Ma.Nivedita Didi Bharata Panpadu Tamil Edison released in the prog and received the book by Sri Mathan Manager SBI, Kovilpatti and John Ganesan Head master Nadar Hr Sec School.