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. 

Universal Brotherhood Day Celebration at Kunnumpuram in Kerala

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Kerala Prant, Thiruvananthapuram Branch, organized the Universal Brotherhood Day Programme at Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Kunnumpuram on 23rd September 2025 from 11am to 12:30 pm. The programme was attended by 80 participants, including 73 students, 4 staff members, and 3 Karyakartas.

The programme commenced with a prayer and lighting of the lamp, followed by the welcome and introduction of the Chief Guest and Kendra Karyakartas. Students presented quotations of Swami Vivekananda, after which a patriotic song was rendered. Shri Aji Kumar ji, the Chief Guest, addressed the gathering, highlighting Swami Vivekananda’s deep love for the cultural heritage of Bharat. Through vivid examples, he emphasized the inherent divinity in all beings and the role of self-effort in making our lives and the nation great. He explained that true acceptance of the whole world as one’s own is vital for humanity and urged the students to study the life and message of Swami Vivekananda.

A book containing Swamiji’s thoughts was gifted to all the students. The programme concluded with the chanting of the Shanti Mantra.

Gurupurnima Celebration at Valiya Panickan Thuruth

 

Gurupurnima is one of the five Utsavas celebrated in Vivekananda Kendra. In Kendra, Omkara is revered as the Guru, and Gurupurnima is celebrated grandly by all branch centers and projects of Vivekananda Kendra across Bharat.

As part of the celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), celebrated Gurupurnima on 9th July 2025 at Valiya Panickan Thuruth from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. The programme was led by Karyakarta Smt. Remya Ji and was attended by 13 participants.

Smt. Remya Ji addressed the gathering on the spiritual significance of the Pranava Mantra as the Guru in Vivekananda Kendra.

She explained why Vivekananda Kendra regards Pranava Mantra (Aum) as its Guru, how it should be chanted with devotion and awareness, and the benefits of regular chanting. The session included a guided chanting of 'Om' 11 times, allowing the participants to experience the meditative and spiritual essence of the practice. The programme concluded with Shanti Mantra.

International Day of Yoga Celebration by VK Guruvayur

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Kerala Prant, Guruvayur Branch, conducted Yoga sessions at three different temples—Pannikkassery Kalari Temple and Thachappully Temple in Engandiyur, and Vaikkattil Kalari Samajam Temple in Vatanapally. The events were held on 21st June 2025.

The Common Yoga Protocol was practiced across all sessions. Participants were also briefed on the benefits of Yoga and the growing global enthusiasm for this ancient practice. The sessions were led by Sri Dayanand Ji, Sri Harilal Ji, and Sri Kannan Ji. A total of 25 participants attended, marking a significant step forward for the branch in its outreach efforts.

 

International Day of Yoga Celebration at Vivekananda Nagar in P Vemballur

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 part of the celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), conducted a Yoga Sangamam on 26th June 2025 at Vivekananda Nagar, P Vemballur from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The session was graced by the presence of Adarneeya Sudhakar Ji, Senior Jeevanvrati Karyakartha of Vivekananda Kendra, who served as the Chief Guest.

The event included a yoga practice session and interaction that emphasized the significance of yoga in daily life for holistic well-being. A total of 42 participants took part, reflecting active involvement and enthusiasm.

 

International Day of Yoga Celebration at Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Vazhuthacaud

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Kerala Prant, Thiruvananthapuram Branch, conducted a Yoga session at Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Vazhuthacaud on 24th June 2025.

The program began with the chanting of Shantipath, followed by a welcome address and introduction by Smt. Harija Madam.

The session included loosening exercises, focused āsanas, and prāṇāyāma practices. It was actively conducted with the support of three Karyakartas. A total of 70 students and 6 staff members participated in the session, which concluded with a vote of thanks by Smt. Harija Madam.

The session was a meaningful engagement, reinforcing the importance of Yoga in promoting holistic wellbeing.

International Day of Yoga Celebration at Ananda Dham VK-VVF Campus in Kodungulur

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), organized a special event on the morning of 21st June 2025 from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. at the Ananda Dham VK-VVF Campus. The program began with a mass Yoga demonstration conducted at the open auditorium, with the participation of Karyakartas and Yoga teachers from the local area. The event was graced by the presence of the Chief Guest, Dr. Panicker of Panicker’s Hospital, Kodungulur.

Mananeeya Dr. Lakshmi Kumari Didi, Director of Vivekananda Vedic Vision Foundation, also graced the occasion and addressed the gathering. She spoke on this year’s IDY theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” emphasizing the interconnectedness of personal well-being and planetary harmony.

As a symbolic gesture to promote ecological awareness, all participants along with Senior Jeevanvrati Adarneeya Sudhakar Ji participated in a tree planting activity, based on the beautiful theme: “Let’s plant a tree in mother’s name” (അമ്മയുടെ പേരിൽ ഒരു മരം നടാം).

A total of 78 participants took part in this meaningful celebration, embracing the spirit of Yoga and sustainable living.

International Day of Yoga 2025 Celebration at NSS Karayogam Hall in Anjapalam

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), organized a Yoga Sangamam on 30th June 2025 at NSS Karayogam Hall, Anjapalam, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The session was led by Shri Nandakumar Ji, Karyakarta of VKVVF, and was attended by 57 participants.

Adarneeya Sudhakar Ji, Senior Jeevanvrati of Vivekananda Kendra, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The President and Secretary of NSS Karayogam along with Smt. Bhagya, a respected teacher, also shared the dais, adding dignity to the occasion.

In a heartfelt gesture of appreciation, NSS Karayogam honoured Shri Sudhakar Ji with a traditional Ponnada. The Yoga Sangamam session included a meaningful interaction and collective practice of yogāsanas, reinforcing the spirit of wellness and harmony advocated by the International Day of Yoga.

International Day of Yoga 2025 Celebration at Sandeepani Sisuvihar

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), organized a special Yoga event at Sandeepani Sisuvihar on 30th June 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 

The event witnessed active participation from 30 people, including students, teachers, and their parents, making it a vibrant and meaningful observance.

The Chief Guests for the event were senior Karyakartas of the Kendra, Sri Radhakrishnan Ji and Sri Mani Chetan ji, who were felicitated by the children with tree saplings as a gesture of respect and environmental consciousness. The programme was further graced by the presence of Mananeeya Dr. Lakshmi Kumari Didi (Director of VKVVF), Sri Nandakumar Ji, and Sri Raghunanthan Ji, who blessed the children and encouraged them as they embark on their journey into a world of knowledge and cultural values.

Senior Jeevanvrati Karyakartha Adarneeya Sudhakar Ji guided and trained the children in performing simple āsanas, making the celebration both joyful and educational.

The event beautifully reflected the spirit of International Day of Yoga 2025, fostering an early connection with Yogic practices and values among young minds.

108 Suryanamaskars Mark the Conclusion of International Day of Yoga Celebrations by VK–VVF

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), organized the concluding ceremony at Kbees Durbar convention centre in Kodungallur on 29th June 2025 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The event witnessed a total participation of 145 people, including representatives from various Yoga Satrās and Yoga Sangamams conducted throughout the celebration period.

The Guest of Honour was the 105-year-old Yoga Acharya Shri Upendran Ji from Cherai village, Kochi, who continues to practice and teach yoga. His presence was an inspiration to all participants. The programme was graced by Mananeeya Dr. Lakshmi Kumari Didi, Director of VKVVF, who addressed and blessed the participants. On behalf of Vivekananda Kendra, she, along with Adarneeya Sudhakar Ji (Senior Jeevanvrati Karyakartha from Vivekananda Kendra), felicitated Shri Upendran Ji for his lifelong dedication to yoga.

The programme included a mass yoga session involving Karyakartas and various yoga teachers. A special highlight of the event was the performance of the 108 Suryanamaskar Yajna. Shri Nazir Ji (c/o Durbar Hall) and Shri Joshi Ji (Karyakarta) were also present on the dais and contributed to the success of the event.

The event concluded on a high note, reinforcing the message of yoga as a holistic path to well-being and Oneness.

International Day of Yoga Celebration at Anapuzha

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), organized a Yoga Sangamam programme at Kalyanadayini Sabha Hall, Anapuzha on 28th June 2025 from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. A total of 75 people participated in the event.

The event was graced by Mananeeya Dr. Lakshmi Kumari Didi, Director of VKVVF, who served as the Chief Guest and blessed the participants with her inspiring words. Shri Thankaraj Ji, a retired Krishi Officer, presided over the function.

Mass Yoga practice was conducted in accordance with the Common Yoga Protocol for this year. The programme was marked by enthusiastic participation and served to reinforce the message of health, harmony, and inner transformation through Yoga.

International Day of Yoga Celebration at Ananda Dham VK-VVF Campus in Kodungulur

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), organized a special event on the morning of 21st June 2025 from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. at the Ananda Dham VK-VVF Campus.

The program began with a mass Yoga demonstration conducted at the open auditorium, with the participation of Karyakartas and Yoga teachers from the local area. The event was graced by the presence of the Chief Guest, Dr. Panicker of Panicker’s Hospital, Kodungulur.

Mananeeya Dr. Lakshmi Kumari Didi, Director of Vivekananda Vedic Vision Foundation, also graced the occasion and addressed the gathering. She spoke on this year’s IDY theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” emphasizing the interconnectedness of personal well-being and planetary harmony.

As a symbolic gesture to promote ecological awareness, all participants along with Senior Jeevanvrati Adarneeya Sudhakar Ji participated in a tree planting activity, based on the beautiful theme: “Let’s plant a tree in mother’s name” (അമ്മയുടെ പേരിൽ ഒരു മരം നടാം).

A total of 78 participants took part in this meaningful celebration, embracing the spirit of Yoga and sustainable living.

Yoga

Culture

Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation

International Day of Yoga

Kerala Kodungallur

 

International Day of Yoga Celebration at SNDP Hall - Kannikulangara

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), conducted a Yoga Sangamam at SNDP Hall, Kannikulangara on 22nd June 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Adarneeya Sudhakar Ji, Senior Jeevanvrati Karyakartha of Vivekananda Kendra, was the Chief Guest and delivered the introductory address, highlighting the spiritual and practical significance of Yoga in daily life. Smt. Dimple Reeshen, a Counseling Psychologist, served as the Guest of Honour and shared her insights with the participants.

A total of 75 people took part in the session, making it a successful and inspiring celebration of International Day of Yoga.

International Day of Yoga Celebration at Sharada Gramam Edavilangu

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), conducted a Yoga Sangamam programme at Sharada Gramam, Edavilangu on 21st June 2025 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The session was led by Ms. Suja Chechi and saw active participation from the local community.  The event was graced by the presence of Adarneeya Sudhakar Ji, Senior Jeevanvrati karyakartha of Vivekananda Kendra, who delivered the introductory address and highlighted the importance of Yoga in daily life. Bindu Teacher from Sandeepani Shishuvihar and senior Karyakarta Shri Radhakrishnan Ji also participated in the session and supported the event.

A total of 92 participants attended the session, making it a meaningful celebration of International Day of Yoga in a traditional and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

International Day of Yoga Celebration at Manikandeshwaram School in Thiruvananthapuram

As part of the International Day of Yoga 2025 celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Kerala Prant, Thiruvananthapuram Branch, organized a special session at Manikandeshwaram School on 21st June 2025. The program was led by Aadharneeya Kum. Kalyani Didi, Jeevanvrati Karyakartha of Vivekananda Kendra, along with Smt. Vasanti Amma, Kendra Karyakartha.  The event began with a warm welcome and introduction by the Principal, Smt. Deepa. The session started with Shantipath, followed by a well-structured Yoga practice that included loosening exercises, concentration-enhancing āsanas, and prāṇāyāma techniques. The entire session was conducted in an inspiring and disciplined manner, encouraging all participants to embrace yoga in daily life.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Principal Smt. Deepa, expressing appreciation to Vivekananda Kendra for organizing the meaningful session.

A total of 95 people participated in the celebration, including 86 students, 6 staff members, and 3 Karyakartas.

 

International Day of Yoga Celebration at Erattu Temple in Edavilangu

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 part of these celebrations, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation in Kodungulur (Kerala Prant), organized a Yoga Sangamam programme at Erattu Temple, Edavilangu on 18th June 2025 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Yoga Sangamam is an initiative by VK-VVF Karyakartas to spread the message of International Day of Yoga and its protocol. The session was led by Smt. Sheela Lal Ji, Karyakarta of VKVVF.

The program was graced by the presence of Adarneeya Sudhakar Ji, Senior Jeevanvrati of Vivekananda Kendra, who attended as the Chief Guest and blessed the participants with his inspiring words.

A total of 65 people participated in the Yoga Sangamam, engaging actively in the practices and reinforcing the significance of Yoga as a means to holistic well-being and inner harmony.

Amrita Parivar Sankul Milan at Pathanamthitta

As a follow-up to the Kendra Parichaya Shibir held on 27th and 28th April 2025, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Kerala Prant, Pathanamthitta Branch organized an Amrita Parivar Sankul Milan on 21st June 2025. A total of 10 participants from 4 families attended. The programme was hosted at the residence of Ambily Chechi, a Kendra karyakarta, in Keezhvaipur and began at 5:00 p.m. with a prayer.

A brief introduction to the concept of Amrita Parivar was shared, based on a write-up by Aadarneeya Radha Didi, followed by an engaging discussion with active participation from all attendees. As part of the International Day of Yoga observance, the group also reflected on the message delivered by Vivekananda Kendra's All-India Vice President, Mananeeya Shri Hanumanthrao Ji, emphasizing the deeper meaning behind this year’s International Day of Yoga theme.

All participants expressed interest in practicing Yoga regularly. The group discussed and finalized the details regarding the next milan—deciding on the time, location, and mode of conduct. The session also included group meditation and concluded with the Kendra Prarthana.

Yoga Satra concluding programme at Valiya Panickan Thuruth - Kodungallur

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Kerala Prant, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation (VK-VVF), Kodungallur conducted the concluding session of the 9th Yoga Satra at Valiya Panickan Thuruth on 14th June 2025, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. A total of 25 participants attended the event. The 21-day satra, initiated by Kendra Karyakarta Remya Ji, aimed at introducing the participants to a disciplined yogic lifestyle rooted in Bharatiya culture. 

The concluding programme was held at Island Arts Club and began with the lighting of the lamp by Adarneeya Sudhakar Ji, Senior Jeevan-vrati of Vivekananda Kendra. Senior Karyakartas Sri Radhakrishnan Ji, Smt. Remya Ji, and a representative from the Island Arts Club also addressed the participants, appreciating their commitment and encouraging continued practice.

Praveshanolsavam at Sandeepani Sisuvihar in Kodungallur

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Kerala Prant, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation (VK-VVF) in Kodungallur, organized Praveshanolsavam 2025–26 (Admission Fest) at Sandeepani Sisuvihar on 5th June 2025.

The event was held with enthusiasm and cultural spirit, marking the formal entry of 15 young children into the world of knowledge. Parents, teachers, and family members joined the celebration, making it a warm and memorable occasion.

Mananeeya Dr. Lakshmi Kumari Didi, Director of VKVVF, blessed the children and inspired everyone with her words on the significance of education rooted in Bharatiya samskriti. On the same day, World Environment Day was also celebrated by the school at Vrindavanam Park, VKVVF, reinforcing the values of environmental care among the children. A total of 35 people were present in the event.

21-Day Yoga Satra Concludes at Anapuzha

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Dakshin Prant, Kerala Vibhag, Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation, Kodungallur conducted a 21-day Yoga Satra at Pandit Karuppan Memorial Vayanasala, Anappuzha. The Satra, held for Matajis and Bhaginis from the surrounding areas and was concluded on 25th May 2025.

The concluding session of the Satra was held on 25th May 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. A total of 18 participants took part in the concluding session.

This was the fifth such Satra conducted in Anappuzha, initiated by Karyakarta Smt. Remya Didi under the banner of Vivekananda Kendra Vedic Vision Foundation. The concluding program began with the lighting of the lamp by Mananeeya Sudhakar Ji (Senior Jeevanvrati karyakartha, Vivekananda Kendra), who also addressed the participants and encouraged them to take forward the practice of Yoga in daily life. The event was further graced by the presence of senior Karyakarta Shri Radhakrishnan Ji from VKVVF, Kodungallur, whose presence added inspiration and warmth to the gathering.