The Annual Celebration of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, Sikra Kulingram, and the 162nd birthday celebration of Swami Brahmannadaji Maharaj were observed with profound solemnity from February 9th to 11th, 2024.
DAY 1: On the first day, February 9th, the Birth Anniversary of Shri Ramakrishna and Maa Sarada Devi was celebrated with great fervour. The program commenced with Mangalarati, Vedic chanting, and stotras, setting a reverent atmosphere. Following this, the Divya Jiban recitation of Thakur and Maa’s life stories infused the gathering with spiritual inspiration. Lyrical recitations and soul-stirring Baul songs added a melodious dimension to the event.
Swami Nityamuktananda of Ramakrishna Math, Baghbazar, and Swami Amiteshananda of Probationer Training Centre, Belur Math, graced the occasion with their insightful spiritual talks, delving deep into the life and teachings of Thakur and Maa. Their discourses shed light on the profound wisdom and enduring relevance of the teachings of these divine luminaries.
Furthermore, a captivating drama titled “Muchakanda” was performed by the Shri Ramakrishna Ashrama, Nimpith.
Overall, the first day of the celebration set a beautiful tone, combining devotion, music, discourse, and artistic expression to honour the divine personalities of Shri Ramakrishna and Maa Sarada Devi.
DAY 2: On the second day, February 10th, dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, started off with a drawing competition, where local school students joined in with great enthusiasm.
Swami Pararthananda recited the Kathopanishad, offering explanations that really struck a chord with everyone present.
The students from the Ramakrishna Mission Blind Boys Academy of Narendrapur treated everyone to some soul-stirring bhajans and orchestral performances, showcasing their musical talents and devotion in a truly heartfelt manner.
Throughout the day, there were a variety of activities, with students from different regions participating in recitations, storytelling, singing, and sharing stories about Swami Vivekananda. The Audio-Visual quiz on Swamiji added an element of friendly competition and learning to the mix.
Swami Krishnanathananda of Udbodhan, shared some wonderful insights on Swami Vivekananda’s teachings, particularly emphasising their relevance for students and the role of parents and guardians in passing on these valuable lessons.
Manipuri and Bharat Natyam performances by the Anandadhara Nrityagosthi of Shantiniketan and Kathakali Dancer Subho Das added a touch of grace and beauty to the day.
The ashrama also took the opportunity to support education by awarding scholarships to 20 deserving students, a small gesture of encouragement and support for their future endeavours.
The day ended on a high note with a lyrical dance drama performed by the Brahmananda Manimel. It was a day filled with inspiration, learning, and camaraderie, reminding us all of the importance of Swamiji’s timeless message in our lives.
DAY 3: On the third day, we humbly celebrated the 162nd birth anniversary of Swami Brahmananda, embodying a spirit of deep respect and reverence. The day commenced with simple yet heartfelt rituals, including Mangalarati, Vedic chanting, and the recitation of Stotras and Bhajans, creating a serene atmosphere filled with devotion.
In the quiet sanctuary of the shrine, a special Puja was conducted, symbolising our heartfelt gratitude and devotion to Bhagawan Shri Ramakrishna and Swami Brahmananda. The morning took on a sacred air as thousands of devotees gathered for the Nagar Parikrama, walking in quiet contemplation with flower garlands and makeshift thrones, honouring the divine presence of Thakur, Maa, Swamiji, and Raja Maharaj.
Amidst the flickering flames of the Homa ceremonies, prayers were offered, seeking blessings and guidance from the divine. The students of Ramakrishna Mission Vidya Mandira, Belur, humbly presented Prahlad Katha, a humble yet heartfelt tribute to their spiritual heritage.
The mellifluous rendition of Ramayana in songs by Swami Kalyaneshananda and the soul-stirring Bhaktigeeti by Shri Sounak Chattapadhya filled the air with a sense of devotion and humility, touching the hearts of all present.
During the Dharmasabha, led by Swami Suvirananda, reflections on spirituality and the teachings of Raja Maharaj were shared in a spirit of humility and mutual learning. Swami Devarajananda of Belur Math offered simple yet profound insights into the life and teachings of Raja Maharaj, enriching the gathering with his wisdom.
The General Secretary Maharaj, in his humble address, emphasised the deep spiritual bond between Shri Ramakrishna and Swami Brahmananda, reminding us of the humility and simplicity that characterised their lives. Swami Lokottorananda of Kamarpukur Ramakrishna Math and Mission graced the gathering with his presence, embodying the spirit of service and humility.
The day concluded with the title “Nader Nimai,” presented by the Binapani Samity of Kolkata.
Over the course of these three days, we were blessed to welcome around 15,000 devotees, whose presence added a special significance to our celebrations. With hearts full of gratitude, we endeavoured to ensure that each devotee received cooked Prasad with love and devotion. It brings us immense joy to know that our humble efforts were met with the full satisfaction of all who partook in this blessed offering. Their presence and participation truly enriched the spiritual atmosphere, making these days of celebration even more meaningful and memorable for everyone involved.
