"Science in the Vedas" lectures series at Pune

The Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Pune, hosted a compelling lecture series on April 11 and 12, 2026, dedicated to the memory of late Vasundharatai Satavalekar and late Sunil Chincholkar. The event saw an enthusiastic turnout, with 125 attendees present on the first day and 72 present on the second.

The event featured a standout presentation by Dr. Sucheta Paranjape, titled “Science in the Vedas,” which captivated the audience by bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary discovery.

Dr. Sucheta Paranjape challenged the narrow view of the Vedas as purely spiritual scriptures, unveiling them as intellectually rigorous texts rich with insights into physics, metallurgy, mathematics, and astronomy.

A key highlight of the discussion was the sophisticated time calculation methods found in the Rigveda, which serve as a testament to the advanced astronomical proficiency of ancient Indian scholars.

Beyond the stars, the lecture illustrated that ancient Indian scholars possessed a sophisticated understanding of the physical world. Furthermore, the discussion highlighted how Ayurveda’s foundational use of medicinal plants remains a vital blueprint for holistic health today.  

The program concluded served as a call to action, inspiring an enthusiastic audience to integrate these time-tested perspectives into modern daily life to build a more balanced and enlightened future.

योग विमर्श : आयोजन वि.के.वयम् पुणे द्वारा

विवेकानन्द केन्द्र कन्याकुमारी, वेदांतिक एप्लीकेशन ऑफ योग एंड मैनेजमेंट, महाराष्ट्र प्रांत, पुणे के तत्वावधान में 22 मार्च 2026 को एक विशेष 'योग विमर्श' व्याख्यान का आयोजन किया गया। इस सत्र का मुख्य विषय "जीवनदर्शक उपनिषद: कल, आज और कल" था, इस प्रेरणादायी व्याख्यान में कुल 85 प्रतिभागियों की सक्रिय उपस्थिति रही।

कार्यक्रम का सफल संचालन एक सुव्यवस्थित टीम द्वारा किया गया। श्रीमती शुभांगी ताई कुलकर्णी ने प्रस्तावना रखी, सुश्री वैशाली ताई वाघीरकर ने वक्ता का परिचय कराया।

"जीवनदर्शक उपनिषद: कल, आज और कल" पर श्रीमती माधवी जोशी, पुणे ने अत्यंत विद्वत्तापूर्ण एवं सरल भाषा में अपने विचार प्रस्तुत किए। उन्होंने रेखांकित किया कि उपनिषदों का दस हजार वर्ष पुराना ज्ञान त्रिकालबाधित है और आज के युग में भी उतना ही प्रासंगिक है। ऋषियों ने अपने तप और सूक्ष्म चिंतन से वेदों की रचना की, जिसका अंतिम भाग 'उपनिषद' है। श्रीमती माधवी जोशी जी ने समझाया कि उपनिषद आत्म-साक्षात्कार और सत्य की खोज की वह कुंजी है, जिसका सार 'श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता' में मिलता है। उन्होंने सुंदर उदाहरण देते हुए कहा कि जिस प्रकार तिल में तेल, फूलों में सुगंध, दूध में मक्खन, गन्ने में गुड़, लकड़ी में आग दिखाई नहीं देता पर विद्यमान रहता है, वैसे ही शरीर में आत्मा का अस्तित्व है, जिसे पहचानना ही जीवन का लक्ष्य है।

व्याख्यान के दौरान उन्होंने जीवन जीने के व्यावहारिक सूत्रों पर भी प्रकाश डाला। उन्होंने कहा कि "मैं" और "मेरा" के अहंकार को त्यागकर ही आत्म-तत्त्व को जाना जा सकता है। उपनिषद हमें सिखाते हैं कि उपभोग भी त्यागपूर्वक होना चाहिए और लेने के बजाय देने की वृत्ति विकसित करनी चाहिए। श्रीमती माधवी जोशी जी ने शरीर की तुलना एक रथ से करते हुए बताया कि इसका चालक 'आत्मा' है, परंतु मन की लगाम 'बुद्धि' के हाथ में होनी चाहिए। विज्ञान चाहे कितनी भी प्रगति कर ले, लेकिन पंचमहाभूतों का महत्व और उपनिषदों का अध्यात्म दर्शन सदैव मानव जाति का मार्गदर्शन करता रहेगा।

मीरा ताई ने प्रार्थना का नेतृत्व किया और पूरे कार्यक्रम का सूत्रसंचालन सौ. मृणालिनी ताई पंडित ने कुशलतापूर्वक किया।

सत्र के अंत में श्रीमती माधवी जोशी ने उपस्थित श्रोताओं की जिज्ञासाओं का समाधान किया, जो अंततः आध्यात्मिक बोध के साथ संपन्न हुआ।

Matru–Pitru Poojan and Gita Jayanti Celebration at Pune

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Maharashtra Prant, Pashchim Maharastra Vibhag, Pune Branch organized a Parivar Milan comprising Matru–Pitru Poojan and Gita Jayanti celebration on 21st December 2025. A total of 70 peoople participated and the programme provided a spiritually enriching and emotionally fulfilling experience for all participants.

The programme commenced with three Omkaras and a prayer led by Ms. Anushka Tai, creating a calm and devotional atmosphere. This was followed by a melodious Shri Krishna bhajan presented by Shri Nilesh Dada, which further enhanced the spiritual ambience. Shri Akshay Dada then introduced the programme, after which Shri Madhav Dada delivered an inspiring talk highlighting the practical relevance of the teachings of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita in leading a balanced, positive, and purposeful life.

The Matru–Pitru Poojan formed the emotional core of the programme. Ms. Gauri Tai explained the significance of reverence towards parents through meaningful shlokas and reflections. As children offered their respects and parents bestowed their blessings, the atmosphere became deeply serene and emotionally charged. The spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam was strongly felt, as participants experienced a sense of universal family bonding, especially touching for those living away from their own families.

Following the poojan, interactive games and action songs were conducted, with enthusiastic participation from both parents and children. The joyful involvement of elders added warmth and liveliness to the gathering. Informal interactions and personal conversations among families further strengthened mutual bonding and a sense of togetherness.

The programme concluded on a fulfilling note, leaving participants with a deep sense of gratitude, inspiration, and belonging. Such initiatives reaffirm the values of family, respect, and collective harmony, while strengthening the emotional foundation of Vivekananda Kendra’s seva karya.

Participation of Vivekananda Kendra in Pune Book Festival 2025

The Pune Book Festival is an annual literary event organized by the National Book Trust at the Fergusson College grounds, Pune, and is usually held in December, attracting large numbers of readers and publishers from across the country. The 2025 edition of the festival was conducted from 13th to 21st December 2025 and featured around 900 book stalls representing publications in various Indian languages.

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Maharashtra Prant, Paschim Maharashtra Vibhag, Pune Branch actively participated in the festival by setting up a Sahitya Seva book stall (Stall No. G-15). The stall showcased a wide range of publications of Vivekananda Kendra, focusing on the life and message of Swami Vivekananda, Bharatiya Samskriti, national values, and character-building literature. The presence of the Kendra’s stall provided an opportunity to reach a diverse audience and to spread value-based, nation-building literature among readers of all age groups. The stall received a positive response from visitors throughout the festival period.

As a significant event during the festival, Mananeeya Kum. Nivedita Didi Bhide Didi, All India Vice President of Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, and Padmashree Awardee paid a gracious visit to the Sahitya Seva stall of the Pune Branch. During her visit, Ma. Nivedita Didi interacted warmly with the volunteers and reviewed the publications displayed at the stall. She appreciated the dedicated efforts of the Pune branch in propagating the ideals of Swami Vivekananda through literature and emphasized the relevance of such value-oriented publications in the present social context.

Her visit served as a source of inspiration and motivation for the volunteers and added significance to the participation of Vivekananda Kendra in the Pune Book Festival.

Rajgad Trek by Vivekananda Kendra Pune

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Pashchim Maharashtra Vibhag, Pune Branch successfully organized an adventurous expedition to Rajgad Fort on December 7, 2025. The trek saw the participation of 58 energetic youngsters who embarked on the journey with patriotic fervor and chants of "Jai Shivaji".
All participants reached the Padmavati Machi Temple to seek blessings. Some had to stop midway, some were out of breath, some felt their legs grow heavy. Yet, by helping and motivating one another, everyone continued the climb with the spirit, “Even if I’m tired, I won’t stop.”
A tasty bhel was then prepared collectively, followed by a fun-filled break with snacks from the tiffins. Then together everyone enjoyed action song. On each spot the history of Rajgad was briefed.
The group then moved towards Sanjeevani Machi. On one side was the massive Balekilla, in the middle a narrow trail, and on the other side a deep valley. Then came the toughest part: the Balekilla. It wasn’t just a physical task; it felt like a true test of the mind.
The final steps led to Balekilla. This was the very place where Shivaji Maharaj planned his grandest mission, The birthplace of the Maratha Empire. The feeling was unforgettable.
After descending, everyone gathered in front of Padmavati Devi and enjoyed a wholesome meal of Zhunka Bhakri.

During the concluding session, Shri Sharad Dada Mane addressed the gathering, drawing inspiration from Shivaji Maharaj’s life. He emphasized that achievements should not lead to complacency, but rather motivate individuals to prepare for greater responsibilities and future goals. The trek concluded with the Kendra Prarthana at the Padmavati Temple, after which the team returned to Pune, carrying with them lasting memories, renewed inspiration, and strengthened resolve.

Leadership Development Workshop for Youth – 2025 at Pune

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Maharashtra Prant, Pashchim Maharashtra Vibhag, Pune Branch, organized a Leadership Development Workshop for Youth on 5th October 2025 at B.M.C.C. College, Pune as part of the Youth Leadership Development Activity. The workshop was conducted with great enthusiasm and discipline, drawing the participation of 70 youths (41 girls and 29 boys) along with 43 volunteers, bringing the total attendance to 116.

The sessions included “Know Thyself” (SWOT Analysis) and Self-Grooming by Shri Sharad Dada Mane, followed by physical activities such as Surya Namaskar and interactive games designed to foster teamwork and vitality. Participants also engaged in group discussions on topics like Operation Sindoor, Vision 2047, Tariff War, and Swadeshi, which inspired thoughtful dialogue on leadership and national consciousness.

The workshop concluded with an experience-sharing session, a motivating address by Ms. Anjali Tai, and a group photograph, marking the successful culmination of a day filled with learning, inspiration, and collective growth.

Book launch of “Samidha”

 Book launch of “Samidha” by Marathi Prakashan Vibhag, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, at Tilak Smarak Mandir, Pune on 8th March.

On 8th March, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Marathi Prakashan Vibhag, organized the Book Launch of “Samidha”.

The book is authored by Shirish Ambulgekar and published by Marathi Prakashan Vibhag, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari. “Samidha” is based on the inspiring biographies of 12 Indian women warriors who sacrificed their lives during the Indian Freedom struggle.

The book was launched by the Chief Guest of the ceremony, Dr Smita Ghaisas (President, Maharshi Karve Stree Shikshan Sanstha), Ma. Nivedita Bhide (Vice President, Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari) and Aa. Kiran Kirtane (Prant Sanchalak, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Maharashtra Prant).

Ma Nivedita Bhide mentioned that the book with 12 inspiring biographies of women warriors would inspire the future generations to imbibe the qualities of courage, bravery and the 7 “shakti” of women as mentioned in Bhagwad Gita. It will instill the concept of Jagadjanani (Creator of Universe) for the readers. We should not forget the concept of “Rashtra” as Nation building. We have to be instrumental in making the Nation prosperous and set an example to the world. We should not forget the task set to us by Swami Vivekananda, of nation building.

Though the book launch coincided with International Women’s day, in India every day is a day of celebration and respect for women, which is our culture. She wished that in the 75th year of Swaraj of India, and 50 years of Vivekanand Kendra, many more such inspiring real stories, which have been forgotten, will be published by the Marathi Prakashan Vibhag!

Smita Ghaisas revealed that apart from courage and bravery, many other qualities of the women in the books can be emulated. She hoped that the book would prove to be an inspiration for the coming generation and make them aware of the rich patriotic, cultural heritage of India. She appreciated the work done by the Vivekananda Kendra in creating awareness about the concept of “Rashtra”, Nation.

Shirish Amburlekar explained that “ Samidha” means ultimate offering of “tyag” (sacrifice). He expressed that the purpose of writing this book was to remember the forgotten history of courage and bravery. It represents our rich heritage and culture. It should provide inspiration to the masses to understand what we can achieve.

The book launch ceremony was introduced by Shailendraji Borkar. Swati Kulkarni compered the ceremony, with vote of Thanks by Vasudhaji Karandikar. Among the dignitaries present were Ma Bhanudasji ( General Secretary, Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari) and Aa Sujata Dalvi ( Prant Sanghatak, Maharashtra, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari).

The Book Launch held at Tilak Smarak Hall, Pune, was well attended. It was also broadcast live on face book.

Universal Brotherhood Day Celebration at Chinchwad

Universal Brotherhood day was celebrated on 17th September 2016 at Chinchwad branch by organizing lectures of Shri Krishnamoortyji as he had come to Pune region.

First lecture was arranged at 12pm at IICMR College Pradhikaran where he guided the young students of Std. XII and MBA. The topic was "Role & Responsibility of today's Youth in building Modern India". There were about 100 students who attended the lecture. Shri Abhayji Kulkarni Director of IICMR felicitated both Shri Krishnamoortyji and Shri Vishwasji on this occasion.

Second lecture was arranged at 6pm at Ram Mandir in Chinchwad where both Shri Krishnamoortyji and Shri Vishwasji emphasized on the significance of Swami Vivekananda's teachings for today's youth. 54 people attended this function which was followed by dinner.

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti Programme at Pune

In view of celebrating 152nd Birth Anniversary of Swamiji, Hon. Nivedita Didi was addressing Youth Convention in Pune called "Safal Yuva, Yuva Bharat." She said,"our country has in abundance those rich number of Youth who are ambitious, a dream as envisaged by Swamiji, a century back. One has to follow few important success mantras to make one's life Safal and Sarthak which include self-confidence in one's aim, optimistic attitude and finally the most important one is the perfect balance and management of time and efforts.

The speech was oraganised in Abasaheb Garware College, Pune which included more than three hundred youth from various colleges. At the same time two marathi books were released at the auspicious hands of Ms. Nivedita Didi namely Kesari Maratha Vruttapatre ani Swami Vivekananda and Woman empowerment in the light of Swami Vivekananda ! At the same time, the programme included release of documentary on Mananiya Eknathaji and Vivekananda Kendra and prize- distribution ceremony of successful candidates in Bharatiya Sanskruti Pariksha held at Pune area.

विवेकानन्द केन्द्र मराठी प्रकाशन विभाग द्वारा पुस्तक प्रकाशन कार्यक्रम

पुस्तक प्रकाशन : श्रीमद् भगवद्गीता आणि स्वामी विवेकानन्द

Swami Vivekananda 150 Birth Anniversary

A 15,000 sq feet rangoli, depicting Swami Vivekananda in the forefront, with his rock memorial in the background, will be made to mark Swami Vivekananda's 150th anniversary.

Artist Jagdish Chavan will lead a team of 80 chosen artists, 42 of whom are his students to create this giant rangoli. To be exhibited at the Brihan-Maharashtra College of Commerce (BMCC) grounds, from November 18 to 20, the rangoli is expected to take around 48 hours to complete.

It would take approximately 800 kgs of colour powder and 600 kgs of white powder to create this rangoli. Given the size, a special ramp would be constructed in order to facilitate easy viewing for the visitors.

A short documentary, showing the making of the Vivekananda memorial at Kanyakumari would be screened at the exhibition.

The inaugural function will be attended by veteran artist Ravi Paranjpe, music composer and singer Salil Kulkarni, lyricist Sandeep Khare and actor Rahul Solapurkar.

During the inaugural ceremony, women kirtankars from the city will conduct kirtans on Swami Vivekanand's life. Apart from this, the Sandeep Khare-Salil Kulkarni duo will sing songs, composed on Swami Vivekanand's life and teachings.

The exhibition will be organised by Swami Vivekanand Sardha Shati Samaroh Samiti (150th birth anniversary celebration committee), along with BMCC and Sanskar Bharati, which is well known for its distinct style of rangoli.

Online Class, Pune to Tinsukia

Sri Satish Navale, newly joined teacher of Tinsukia VKV, arranged online class for students of class XI on 8 Feb, Saraswati Puja Diwas. Even though he is visually challenged, that does not hamper his enthusiasm to work.

He has completed his M.A., M.Ed and M.Phil. Now he is doing his research in integrating the educational system of blind people with normal.

Sri Satish Navale is a good counselor for students, educationist, computer teacher and well versed in Indian History.

Courtesy : INDIAN EXPRESS

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To know more about Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Tinsukia please visit http://tinsukia.vkv.in/, drop an email at vkvtsk [at] vkspv.org or call at 0374 - 2319236.

 
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