Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Arunachal Prant, Manipur Vibhag, organized the Kendra Parichay Workshop at Zenith Hall, City Hospital, Khongnang Ani Karak Dewlaland, Imphal, on 18th August 2024. The event drew a gathering of 53 Karyakartas and well-wishers, primarily aimed at engaging and educating them about the Kendra's mission and activities.
The program began with a prayer. Sri Chandrababu Ji, Manipur Vibhag Pramukh, delivered the welcome address, followed by self-introductions of the Karyakartas and a Geet.
The esteemed Chief Guest, Mananeeya Sri Bhanudasji Dhakras, All-India General Secretary of VRM & VK, delivered an insightful introduction to the Kendra. Through an engaging PowerPoint presentation, he explained the Kendra's vision, mission, and service activities across diverse sectors. He emphasized the following key points:
“Today, let us take a moment to deeply understand the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda. A devoted disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Swami Vivekananda dedicated his life to the service of humanity. He renounced his family and chose to live among sannyasis, driven by a profound desire to serve the nation.
In his quest for spiritual awakening, Swami Vivekananda meditated intensely for three days at Kanyakumari, a turning point in his mission. He firmly believed in and propagated the idea that ‘Each soul is potentially divine,’ a profound thought that continues to inspire millions worldwide. Recognizing the immense potential in youth, Swami Vivekananda devoted himself to awakening their spirit, encouraging them to rise and build a stronger nation. His life and message remain a guiding light for all.
Mananeeya Sri Eknathji Ranade's vision and contributions were deeply inspired by Swami Vivekananda's teachings. Eknathji dedicated his life to carrying forward the message that 'each soul is potentially divine.' With a strong resolve to serve the nation, he embarked on a mission to realize Swamiji's dream of a united and spiritually awakened Bharat. His notable achievements include the creation of the Vivekananda Rock Memorial at Kanyakumari, a symbol of national unity and spiritual awakening. Eknathji understood the power of yoga to unite people, famously stating, ‘Anena Ati Yoga’ (by this, yoga), emphasizing yoga's role in uniting hearts and minds.
Under his guidance, Vivekananda Kendra offers various courses, such as the Yoga Shiksha Shibir and the Certificate Course in Yoga, designed to impart Swami Vivekananda's teachings and inspire individuals to realize their potential. These courses are now offered in all states, in their respective languages, making the teachings accessible to everyone.
Swami Vivekananda's historic speech at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago showcased his vision of universal brotherhood. Eknathji was deeply moved by Swamiji's message and set out to spread it far and wide, beginning with Arunachal Pradesh, then expanding throughout the Northeastern states, and eventually across the nation. Eknathji's dedication to training and nurturing Karyakartas in their own languages ensured that Swami Vivekananda's teachings reached every corner of the country.
As we reflect on Eknathji's journey, we understand that life's purpose lies in realizing our inner potential and serving the greater good, just as he did.”
After the Question and Answer session, Mananeeya Sri Harekrishna Mangsatabamji, Sah Sanchalak of Vivekananda Kendra Manipur Vibhag, who presided over the event, addressed all participants. He spoke about the rich two-thousand-year-old culture of the Meitei (Manipuri) people, which is still practiced today. He reflected on the Kendra's efforts in 1980, which unfortunately could not continue, but expressed optimism that now is the time to rekindle and sustain the work. He emphasized that it is our duty to ensure the continuation of the Kendra's work, regardless of any difficulties.
He also touched upon the conflict between the Gurukul system and the Western system of education, highlighting the importance of value systems. He invoked Swamiji's teachings, emphasizing the need to excel in one's own path, citing Swami Vivekananda's historic Chicago speech, whose legacy will never fade away.
Sri Chandrababu Ji concluded the program with a vote of thanks and the Shanti Mantra. After the event, lunch prasad was served to all Karyakartas and well-wishers in the hall.
