The 130th Anniversary of the Foundation of the Worldwide Ramakrishna Mission was observed with devotion and spiritual fervour at Ramakrishna Math, Thanjavur, on Friday, 1 May 2026. The day was marked by a rich confluence of sacred rituals, cultural offerings, and community service, drawing a large gathering of devotees and well-wishers.
Sacred Observances
The celebrations commenced in the early hours with Veda Parayanam, invoking divine blessings upon the occasion. This was followed by Special Puja, Homa, and Pushpanjali offered to Bhagavan Sri Ramakrishna, conducted in accordance with Vedic rites. Lalitha Sahasranama Parayanam was thereafter rendered, along with devotional songs, deepening the atmosphere of prayer and contemplation. In the evening, Thiruvilakku Puja and Mulaipari were conducted with the active and wholehearted participation of the assembled devotees.
Addresses
Dr. Krishnaveni delivered a special address, offering an insightful exposition on the ideals and enduring mission of the Ramakrishna Movement, tracing its significance across 130 years of universal service and spiritual inspiration.
The programme concluded with a benedictory address by Swami Vimurtananda, whose words provided spiritual guidance and blessings to all in attendance.
Cultural Programmes
The spirit of the occasion was enriched by a series of cultural offerings. Students of Kamala Subramaniam School presented vibrant cultural programmes befitting the celebratory nature of the day. A classical Bharatanatyam performance was offered by Nrithyanchali Nattiya Kalalayam, as a devotional artistic offering to the occasion.
Devotees of the Ponmalai Sri Ramakrishna–Sarada Samiti rendered blissful Nama Sankeerthanam, filling the atmosphere with sacred sound. The traditional folk celebration of Kummiyattam also took place, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Service and Awareness
In the spirit of seva as exemplified by the Ramakrishna Order, Annadanam (free meals) was served to approximately 1,000 devotees, honouring the tradition of seeing God in every human being. As a gesture of ecological awareness and environmental responsibility, saplings were distributed to participants, emphasising the Order’s commitment to a harmonious relationship with nature.
The celebration at Ramakrishna Math, Thanjavur, thus bore witness to the living relevance of Sri Ramakrishna’s message — uniting worship, service, culture, and community in a single, harmonious observance.
