On 5 April 2025, Most Revered Swami Gautamananda ji Maharaj, President of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, arrived at Ramakrishna Mission, Shyamsayer, Bardhaman, to bless the installation of the new marble idol of Sri Ramakrishna Deva. He was warmly welcomed by monks and devotees with a procession, band music, conch blowing, and the showering of flower petals. In the evening, thousands of devotees offered their pranams at his holy feet.
Ramnavami and Idol Installation
On the sacred day of Ramnavami, Most Revered President Maharaj-ji handed over the photos of Sri Ramakrishna, Holy Mother, and Swami Vivekananda to monks representing the Sikra Kulingram Centre. A temple procession followed, after which the new marble idol of Sri Ramakrishna was installed in the temple sanctum. The photos of Holy Mother and Swamiji were also placed. After offering Arghya, monks and devotees sang bhajans and danced in joy.
Worship and Rituals
Revered Swami Tattwavidananda offered Abhishek Puja on the evening of 5 April. On 6 April, Sodashopachar Puja, Bhoga, Arati, and Homa were performed following the installation. The earlier idols were respectfully moved to the first floor of the new dining hall.
Plaque Unveiling and Blessings
Most Revered President Maharaj-ji unveiled a commemorative plaque, lit a ceremonial lamp, and delivered a blessing speech in the presence of many senior monks and devotees. He then proceeded to Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Baje Pratappur.
Public Meeting and Sadhu Bhandara
A public meeting was held, presided over by Swami Lokottarananda. Other monks from different centres, as well as local dignitaries, were present. A Sadhu Bhandara was organised, where 130 monks took part, and about 4000 devotees were served prasad.
Cultural Programme
After the evening Arati, a devotional musical narration (Geeti Alekhya) on Sri Ramakrishna was presented, bringing joy and spiritual fulfilment to all present.
