Historical Significance
The Alambazar Math holds profound historical importance as the second monastery of the Ramakrishna Order. It served as the residence for the direct disciples of Sri Ramakrishna from February 1892 to February 1898. Following its formal acquisition by Ramakrishna Math, Belur, in 2023, an extensive restoration project was undertaken to return the once-dilapidated edifice to its original splendor.
Inaugural Ceremony (Morning Session)
The formal inauguration of the newly renovated heritage building, museum, and an exhibition chronicling the genesis and expansion of the Ramakrishna Movement was performed by Revered Swami Gautamanandaji Maharaj, President of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission.
- Inauguration and Plaque Unveiling: The program commenced at 11:00 AM with the arrival of the President Maharaj, followed by the inauguration of the heritage building amidst Vedic chanting by the probationers of the Training Centre. At 11:05 AM, the inaugural plaque was unveiled, followed by Arghya, Arati in the shrine, and a tour of the renovated premises.
- Public Meeting: A public meeting was held from 11:30 AM to 12:40 PM, compere’d by Swami Chandrakantananda.
- Opening & Felicitations: The session began with an opening song by Swami Animeshananda, followed by the felicitation of guests.
- Book Release: A pictorial biography of Swami Nirvananandaji Maharaj was released.
- Addresses: The Welcome Address was delivered by Swami Suvirananda, General Secretary. Other prominent speakers included Swami Saradatmananda, Swami Satyaprakashananda, and benedictory addresses by Revered Swamis Vimalatmanandaji, Divyanandaji, Bhajananandaji, and Suhitanandaji.
- Presidential Address: The morning session concluded with a benedictory address by the President Maharaj and a vote of thanks by Swami Bodhasaranandaji.
- Dignitaries in Attendance: Guests included nuns from Sarada Math, Ms. Sayantika Banerjee (MLA), Smt. Aparna Moulik (Chairperson, Baranagar Municipality), and senior officials from the Police and CESC.
Spiritual and Cultural Program (Afternoon Session)
Following the distribution of Noon Prasad, the afternoon session resumed at 3:30 PM with a focus on spiritual discourses and devotional music.
- Bhajans and Lectures: The session featured soulful bhajans by Swami Prajnatmananda, Swami Shivadhishananda, and Swami Ishtasevananda. A lecture was delivered by Swami Shastrajnananda at 4:15 PM.
- Evening Rites: The traditional Evening Arati was performed at 5:30 PM.
- Giti Alekhya: The celebration concluded with a “Giti Alekhya” (musical feature) presented by Sri Ramakrishna Sangitanjali, Belur, from 7:30 PM to 8:45 PM.
Conclusion
The restoration and inauguration of the Alambazar Math stand as a milestone in preserving the heritage of the Ramakrishna Movement. The day’s events, coinciding with Swamiji’s birthday, successfully honored the “hallowed second monastery” while inspiring the large gathering of devotees and citizens present.
