Janajati Sammelan 2026 and 30th Foundation Day of VKIC Held at Guwahati

Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture (VKIC) organized the North-East Level Janajati Sammelan 2026 along with its 30th Foundation Day on 30th and 31st January 2026 at the Assam Royal Global University, Guwahati. The two-day Sammelan brought together more than 418 delegates representing 40 Janajati communities from across the North Eastern region, with the objective of fostering cultural exchange, strengthening indigenous traditions, and promoting sustainable development through culture.

The inaugural session commenced with a traditional prayer by the Apatani community of Arunachal Pradesh. The programme was graced by Mananeeya Shri Narayan Chandra Borkotoky, Vice Chairman of the State Innovation and Transformation Aayog, Assam and former Member of Parliament; in the presence of Aadaraneeya Shri Joram Begi Ji, Retired Chief Information Commissioner, Government of Arunachal Pradesh and Chairman, VKIC; Dr. Sheela Borah, Director, VKIC; and Mananeeya Kum. Nivedita Bhide, All India Vice-President, Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari.

Dr. Sheela Borah welcomed the gathering, while Shri Joram Begi Ji, in his keynote address, highlighted the rich ethnic and linguistic diversity of the North East and emphasized the urgent need to preserve indigenous faith and practices amidst modern challenges. The Chief Guest, Shri Narayan Chandra Borkotoky, called upon the communities to remain rooted in their traditions and work towards cultural preservation. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Aadaraneeya Kum. Meera Didi, Secretary, VKIC. Parallel sessions were conducted on themes such as Commonalities, Challenges and creative response, Development through culture, involving intellectuals, youth, women, and social representatives.

The Foundation Day programme of VKIC on 31 January 2026 was graced by the Hon’ble Governor of Assam, Mananeeya Shri Laxman Prasad Acharya, as Chief Guest, and the Hon’ble Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly, Mananeeya Shri Biswajit Daimary, as Guest of Honour. They were joined by Aadaraneeya Shri Joram Begi Ji, Dr. Sheela Borah, Mananeeya Nivedita Bhide Didi, VKIC Sanmanee Mananeeya Shri Jaleswar Brahma, and Mananeeya Shri Mouram Molshoy from the Bru community of Tripura. The day began with a vibrant procession of participants in traditional attire, followed by the release of two publications: Traditional Systems of Deori Community: Change and Continuity and Footprints on the Eternal Path – The Life of Shri Latsam Khmhun by the Hon’ble Governor.

In his address, the Hon’ble Speaker Shri Biswajit Daimary emphasized the continuity of spiritual traditions of Janajati communities from Vedic times and the need to preserve this heritage. The Hon’ble Governor reflected on the vision of Mananeeya Shri Eknathji Ranade and highlighted the role of VKIC in integrating education with indigenous culture, invoking the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Mananeeya Nivedita Didi, in her address, stressed that faith forms the core of cultural identity and underscored the importance of preserving indigenous traditions with conviction. Shri Jaleswar Brahma shared his experiences of selfless service and appreciated VKIC’s sustained efforts in cultural preservation.

The Sammelan, attended by 418 delegates and around 300 local guests, concluded with a renewed commitment towards strengthening community leadership and ensuring sustainable development rooted in indigenous culture.

युवा संवाद विवेकानन्द केन्द्र कन्याकुमारी, राँची

विवेकानन्द केन्द्र कन्याकुमारी, शाखा राँची द्वारा डोरण्डा महाविद्यालय में एक प्रेरणादायी युवा संवाद कार्यक्रम का आयोजन ऑडिटोरियम में 30 जनवरी 2026, दोपहर 12:30 बजे से किया गया। इस संवाद में 425 छात्र-छात्राओं सहित प्राध्यापकों और शहर के गणमान्य व्यक्तियों को मिलाकर कुल 456 लोगों की उपस्थिति रही।

इस कार्यक्रम में मुख्य वक्ता के रूप में अतिरिक्त प्रधान मुख्य वन संरक्षक (APCCF) -अनुसंधान एवं प्रशिक्षण, झारखण्ड, श्री सिद्धार्थ त्रिपाठी,IFS जी की विशेष उपस्थिति रही। 

श्री सिद्धार्थ त्रिपाठी ने स्वामी विवेकानंद के युवाओं के लिए प्रेरणादायी संदेशों और उनकी वर्तमान परिपेक्ष्य में उपयोगिता, करियर निर्माण, और व्यक्तित्व विकास जैसे महत्वपूर्ण विषयों पर सरल और जीवंत उदाहरणों के माध्यम से अपनी बात रखी। उनके विचारों ने उपस्थित युवाओं में जोश और प्रेरणा का संचार किया। कार्यक्रम के दौरान "युवा भारत अभियान" के अन्तर्गत IGNITED YOUTH FORUM की इकाई की घोषणा की गई, जो युवाओं के नेतृत्व विकास और सामाजिक जागरूकता के लिए समर्पित है।

 महाविद्यालय के प्राचार्य डॉ. राज कुमार शर्मा ने कार्यक्रम की प्रस्तावना रखी, कार्यक्रम का संचालन युवा कार्यकर्ता सुश्री तृप्ति सूत्रधार द्वारा अत्यंत कुशलतापूर्वक किया गया,  नगर संयोजक श्री दिव्यांशु पांडेय और सह-संयोजक खिलेष जी ने 'युवा भारत अभियान' के उद्देश्यों से सभी को अवगत कराया।

अंत में विवेकानंद केंद्र के विभाग संचालक श्री विनोद कुमार गढयान ने सभी का आभार व्यक्त किया। 

77th Republic Day Celebration at VKV Kanyakumari

The 77th Republic Day was celebrated with great patriotic fervour at Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu Prant), on 26 January 2026. The programme was organized with the objective of instilling patriotism, constitutional values, discipline, cultural pride, and social responsibility among students, while also creating awareness about national service, environmental protection, and career opportunities in the Armed Forces. A total of 1050 students participated in the celebration.

The programme commenced with a devotional invocation rendered melodiously by the students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, invoking divine blessings for the nation. The National Flag was then hoisted by Mananeeya Rekha Davey Didi, Joint General Secretary of Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari in the august presence of the Chief Guest, Subedar Shri C. P. Manikandan of the Indian Army. The gathering paid respectful homage to the Tricolour with great pride and reverence.

The welcome address was delivered by Ashika of Class IX B, who warmly welcomed the dignitaries, teachers, parents, students, and karyakartas present on the occasion. The students of Class IX then presented a patriotic song in Hindi, creating a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere. T. Devi Varshana of Class XII B spoke on the significance of Republic Day, highlighting the importance of constitutional values, equality, and the responsibilities of citizens.

Adding energy and discipline to the celebration, the students of the Vidyalaya presented a mass Karate and Silambam display, demonstrating confidence, coordination, and physical fitness.

In his address, the Chief Guest Subedar Shri C. P. Manikandan shared his 27 years of service in the Indian Army and inspired the students with his experiences. He emphasized the importance of energy, discipline, courage, and perseverance in achieving success. He also explained the different entry pathways into the Indian Army, including recruitment as a Soldier and as an Officer, and elaborated on opportunities through the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune, encouraging students to begin preparation from the school level. He advised students to respect elders, maintain discipline in life, and cultivate sincerity and dedication. Concluding his address, he administered a four-point pledge, instilling a strong sense of patriotism, responsibility, discipline, and service to the nation.

The cultural segment included a Tamil drama on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, enacted by the students, which portrayed his courage, patriotism, and sacrifice for India’s freedom. The performance was highly appreciated by the audience.

In the presidential address, Mananeeya Rekha Didi extended her warm greetings to all and emphasized that India is progressing while preserving its rich cultural heritage and traditions. She encouraged students to feel proud of their motherland and to uphold national values. She advised them to remain active, energetic, and courageous, and to maintain good health through proper food and disciplined living. She urged them to follow cultural discipline and spiritual values and to develop the strong conviction that “I can do,” reminding them that every individual has the potential to succeed through dedication and commitment.

Following the addresses, prizes were distributed to students who excelled in various extra-curricular activities. The prize list was read by Smt. Kalavathy Teacher. As a token of gratitude, a memento was presented to the Chief Guest by Mananeeya Rekha Didi.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Kum. Regasree of Class XI C, expressing sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, teachers, parents, students, and karyakartas of Vivekananda Kendra for their valuable presence and support.

The celebration concluded with the Kendra Prayer, leaving everyone inspired with a renewed sense of patriotism, discipline, and commitment towards the nation.

77th Republic Day Celebration at VKV Vallioor

The 77th Republic Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour at Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Vallioor (Tamil Nadu Prant), on 26th January 2026 at 9.30 a.m. in the school premises. The programme was presided over by Shri S. K. Subramanianji, Correspondent, VKV MHSS, Vallioor, and witnessed the active participation of 720 students, teachers, and staff members. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Shri. V. Suresh Kumar, MBA, Founder and Director, SDST Technology OPC Private Limited.

The celebration commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag by the Chief Guest, followed by the National Salute. The cultural programme began with a graceful Bharatanatyam performance by the students, setting a dignified and patriotic tone for the event. The programme was efficiently compered by Kum. M. Shiva Nandhini of Class XI-B. The welcome address was delivered by Kum. R. Uthiksha Shree of Class IX, who extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries, teachers, students, and guests.

To highlight the glory and uniqueness of Bharath Mata, students of Class VI presented a melodious patriotic song, which was well appreciated by the audience. This was followed by an energetic and vibrant performance by the brothers and sisters of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya. The significance of Republic Day and the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution were eloquently explained through an oration by Shri H. Sanjay of Class XI-D, inspiring students to uphold constitutional values in their lives.

The Chief Guest, Shri. V. Suresh Kumar, addressed the gathering and shared his insightful thoughts, motivating students to develop discipline, responsibility, and a sense of national pride. His address encouraged the young minds to pursue excellence with integrity and dedication. Subsequently, students who had excelled in the Sports Day competitions were honoured with prizes, recognising their achievements and encouraging sportsmanship.

As a token of gratitude, the Honourable Correspondent, Sri S. K. Subramanianji, presented a memento to the Chief Guest. The vote of thanks was proposed by Kum. Banu Mathi of Class IX, who expressed sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful organisation of the programme.

The celebration concluded with the National Anthem, followed by the distribution of sweets to all the participants, marking the Republic Day celebration as a meaningful and memorable event that instilled patriotic values among the students.

Bharat Mata Puja and Aarti at Andheri

Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Maharashtra Prant, Kokan Vibhag, Parle-Andheri Branch, in collaboration with the Inner Wheel Club of Mumbai Parleshwar, organized a grand Bharat Mata Puja and Aarti at Ram Mandir, Vile Parle, on the auspicious occasion of Republic Day, January 26, 2026. The event was organized with the coordinated efforts of 10 Kendra karyakartas and 25 Inner Wheel Club members, along with the enthusiastic participation of local residents, and was attended by 150 people.

The program commenced at 5:30 p.m. with a beautiful floral Rangoli of Bharat Mata as the centerpiece, the resonant chanting of three ‘Omkaras’ and a prayer by 15 students from the Kendra’s Samskarvarga. During the introductory address, Ms. Smita Puranik Tai highlighted the mission of Vivekananda Kendra and emphasized the contemporary necessity for national unity. The spiritual ambiance was further enriched by Ms. Radhika Gokhale’s rendition of "Matrubhumi Gaanase," accompanied by the Samskarvarga students, which led into a collective lamp-lighting ceremony around the Rangoli by all present.

The ceremony reached a poignant peak as the women volunteers of the Inner Wheel Club performed the Bharat Mata Aarti, followed by spirited patriotic slogans raised by the children. A unique meditative session led by Ms. Smita Puranik Tai allowed attendees to perform a "mental circumambulation" of Bharat, visualizing its diverse and sacred landscapes.

The event concluded with the Shanti Mantra and the distribution of Prasad. The evening served as a powerful tribute to the spirit of the motherland.