On the occasion of Republic Day, 26th January 2025, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Maharashtra Prant, Paschim Maharashtra Vibhag, Chinchwad Branch organized the Bharat Mata Aarati at Jijau Paryatan Kendra, Chinchwad, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event witnessed the participation of 150 attendees, including Vivekananda Kendra Karyakarthas, visitors at the tourism center, children from the Sanskar class, and their parents.
The program was hosted by Ms. Deepali Tai, while Ms. Rohini Tai and her team beautifully crafted a map of Bharat Mata, adorned with saffron-colored flowers, white flowers, and green leaves. The event commenced with three Omkars and the Shanti Path, followed by an introduction from Deepali Tai, who explained the background and significance of the Bharat Mata Aarati. Shri Nachiketa Deshmukh ji gave an introduction about seva activities of Vivekananda Kendra across Bharat.
The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including Aadharneeya Moreshwar Shedge ji, Former Corporator of Chinchwad; Aadharneeya Jayant Kaka Kulkarni ji, Head of Ramdas Swami Sansthan, Sajjangad, Chinchwad Branch; and Ms. Arunatai Marathe, Director of Chinchwad Center. Pundalik Mate Dada introduced the dignitaries, who were welcomed with floral bouquets and books by the Chinchwad Center. Following this, the guests performed puja and floral offerings to Swami Vivekananda’s portrait, after which Shri Tanmay ji recited a Vivek Vani, adding to the spiritual fervor of the event.
Aadharneeya Moreshwar Shedge ji and Shri Jayant Kaka Kulkarni addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of understanding and spreading awareness about Republic Day, remembering and honoring the sacrifices of our freedom fighters, fulfilling our duties towards society with dedication and integrity, and actively participating in various initiatives of the Pimpri-Chinchwad branch of Vivekananda Kendra to contribute to nation-building.
As part of the celebrations, Rakesh Dada performed the soulful song “Bharat Hamari Maa Hai,” during which participants lit lamps around the Bharat map, symbolizing devotion and unity. This was followed by the collective singing of “Aarti Bharat Mata Ki,” with all dignitaries and volunteers joining in the Bharat Mata Aarati and puja.
The event concluded with the Shanti Mantra and victory chants, filling the atmosphere with spiritual energy and patriotic fervor. Prasad was distributed to all attendees. Shri Rohit Kulkarni ji efficiently managed contact coordination and the bookstall, ensuring the smooth execution of the event. The dedication and teamwork of all volunteers contributed significantly to the successful completion of the program.