Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Dakshin Prant, Karnataka Vibhag, RT Nagar branch celebrated Universal Brotherhood Day at MS Convent School, Mannaranya Palya, RT Nagar, on 14th September 2024, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event was attended by a total of 153 people, including 101 students, 8 teachers, 27 Karyakarthas, 15 parents, and 2 Chief Guests.
The program featured an inter-school competition, with participation from students of various schools in the area. A total of 35 schools were approached, and 10 schools responded positively, resulting in 101 students participating in the competition. Among these students, 30 were awarded trophies and prizes, including Vivekananda Kendra publication books. All participants received participation certificates, Vivekananda Kendra publication books, and the Yuva Bharati magazine.
Mananeeya Chitprabhaprana Mataji from Sharada Math graced the event as the Chief Guest. In her speech, she recounted the historical moment when Swami Vivekananda delivered his speech at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago. She highlighted Swami Vivekananda's initial nervousness and his prayer to Maa Saraswati before delivering his impactful speech.
Mataji emphasized three key elements for effective speech and singing:
- Kanastha: Understanding each word.
- Bhudistha: Practicing with full heart.
- Hridyastha: Conveying the message with heartfelt emotion.
She suggested that following these principles ensures that the message is remembered for a long time.
In appreciation of their participation and support, the organizers from VK RT Nagar branch presented Sharada Math with a shawl from VK Katkati Branch, VK publication books, a fruit basket, and a memento.
The event concluded with a Desh Bhakti Geet, followed by a vote of thanks and the Shanti Mantra. Lunch was served to all attendees, and free books from Sharada Math and the Yuva Bharati magazine were distributed.
A book sales counter was also set up at the venue as an additional effort to spread the message of Swami Vivekananda. The program’s success is seen as a positive sign for increased participation in the coming years, with hopes of involving all schools in the area.
