The Chinmaya Niagara Seeker-To-Facilitator programme arose out of a pressing need to have more individuals who are both firmly established as spiritual seekers in Sanatana Dharma and equipped with the necessary training to serve as facilitators to open and enhance the spiritual journeys of others in their communities.

Thus, from June 2023 to May 2024, an inaugural 14-seeker cohort of the Seeker-to-Facilitator programme engaged in rigorous weekly training. The seekers, all highly dedicated and insightful individuals from across the United States, play vital roles in their respective communities, whether as Chinmaya Mission Bala Vihar teachers, weekly course teachers, study group facilitators or Centre organizers.

The cohort was trained by Shri Vivek Gupta, who expertly guided the seekers to better understand and reflect on vital concepts for facilitation, such as:

The purpose of a spiritual facilitator.
Deepening personal sadhana.
The right attitude towards facilitation and seva.
The importance of relationships in spiritual facilitation.
Frameworks to properly incorporate scriptural teachings into facilitation.
Designing engaging facilitation sessions.
Ideating and implementing high-level seva initiatives.

These teachings from Shri Vivekji were supplemented by intensive workshops by professional educators on topics such as:

Confidence in public speaking.
Developing a robust toolkit of facilitation techniques.
The art of asking and answering questions as a facilitator.
Constructing safe and inclusive learning environments.
Designing dynamic activities for youth.

The 14 graduates are Ananya Chakravarti, Annapoorna Murthy, Jignasa Patel, Juie Deo, Lavanya Rao, Neha Mehta, Pankaj Kotwani, Prema Palaniappan, Rachana Sureka, Rupa Ranganath, Srikanth Vasudevan, Varsha Shah, Vasavi Tankala, and Vignesh Sadras.

The Seeker-To-Facilitator programme had an immense impact on the cohort. The graduates aspire to live by a code of ethics to follow and further the Science of Oneness with instrumentship (nimitta-bhāva), surrender (bhakti) and acceptance (sthāne). They practiced to connect with all in thoughts, words and action with authenticity (ārjava), inclusivity (suhṛd) and dedication (yajña) at retreats, camps, and weekly classes with their students. They all have attended at least one 50-hour Silence Retreat.

The programme culminated with the seekers working together to develop and execute several new initiatives for Chinmaya Niagara, such as the upcoming Essential Love (Gita Saara) book and the Enhanced Seva Training programme that begins on June 30, 2024. In this Enhanced Seva Training, Shri Vivek Gupta along with other trained spiritual guides and educators, will train seekers to effectively facilitate spiritual education for second and third generation youth, deepening self development of all in the process.

By Anvita Mishra, Annapoorna Murthy, Juie Deo, Vidya Ganti, Vignesh Saradas and Vinay Mallikaarjun

The Chinmaya International Residential School campus provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the 34th All India Chinmaya Yuva Kendra (AICHYK) Conference, with over 125 participants including 33 Swamins and Brahmacharins, as well as enthusiastic youth from 61 Centres across Bharat. The attendees were eager to connect, exchange ideas and immerse themselves in Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda’s teachings, inspired to bring positive change at their Centres.

Swami Swaroopananda, the Global Head of Chinmaya Mission and Chairman of AICHYK, was welcomed for the inauguration with the traditional Purna Kumbha followed by the hoisting of the Dhvaja – flag bearing the CHYK emblem. In his address, he reflected on his own journey, highlighting the enduring principle of ‘once a Chyk, always a Chyk’ that defines the spirit of CHYK. He fondly recalled the profound words of Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda, who emphasised the infinite potential within each individual, stating, “If infinite is your nature, then infinite is your potential. Therefore, there are no heights that you cannot scale.”

This Conference held special significance as it coincided with the 108th Chinmaya Jayanti. Additionally, the upcoming years mark significant milestones, with 2025 commemorating the 50th year of CHYK and 2026 celebrating the 75th year of the Chinmaya Movement.

Some of the important sessions were as follows:

Presentations on major programs/activities in 2023-2024 – CHYK Centres of Chennai, Kadapa, Brahmapur, Goa, Mumbai, Noida, CORD Sidhbari and others, shared insights on the impact of CHYK projects and activities conducted in the last year.

Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda’s Talk – Youth Alone Can: an eye opener for all on the clarity with which He envisioned CHYK for the youth of Bharat. His words left a great impact and participants could be seen discussing and mulling over the thoughts even after the session.

Presentations and discussions on ‘CHYK Vision & Mission’ and ‘Envisioning Chyk for the next 20 years: Challenges and Opportunities’ were facilitated by Swami Turiyananda, Brahmachari Anand Chaitanya, Brahmachari Sudheer Chaitanya, Brahmachari Vighnesh Chaitanya and Brahmachari Ved Chaitanya.

Youth Empowerment Program (YEP-14) – Swami Anukoolananda spoke about the visionary program that began in 2003 and with thirteen successful batches of around 450+ empowered YuvaVeers continues to support grass-root activities and projects across Bharat. He emphasised the impact of the program and how it is imperative that Chinmaya Mission centres support YEP-14 by sending potential participants, hosting YuvaVeers during their training and funding the course.

CHYK 50 years – RRR-7 – This is the nation building project to be implemented in the 50th year of CHYK across Bharat. YuvaVeer Radha Narayan spoke on the visionary initiative by Swami Mitrananda of compiling history books – that were published as a set of three, titled Radiant, Resilient, Resurgent Bharat for classes 6, 7 and 8.

Swami Anukoolananda elaborated on the set of competitions and their structure that is being planned for implementation in 2025, sharing insights into possible numbers to be reached and teams to be built. Based on the inputs given, all participants sat in their respective State groups and discussed the possible preparatory guidelines and plan of execution.

CHYK Personal Transformation Programs – Swami Anukoolananda presented insights that should be implemented by all CHYK Centres. Topics covered included Daily Sadhana for Transformation, 52 Challenges for 52 weeks, Sadhana Camps for Youth, and so on.

Drug Demand Reduction program – awareness and actionables for outreach among youth and school groups. Swami Anukoolananda conducted this presentation for the Conference participants.

Outreach initiatives were emphasised in a special session covering – CHYK Alumni meet, CHYK Transformation Circle. Social Media Outreach and Collaboration were presented by Brahmachari Sanatan Chaitanya with the team from Chinmaya Vishwa Vidyapeeth and Chinmaya Vidyalayas Jamshedpur, Bokaro and Kannur

State groups brainstormed on the planning of targets, sevak building, outreach initiatives to be implemented in each Centre and State for 2024-25.

Each day began with a Sadhana session emphasising the importance of being consistent in our sadhana. Japa sadhana of Rama Nama, chanting the Guru Stotra and Chinmaya Ashtottara Shata Namavali and Dhyana were the three sadhanas that were focussed on, led by Swami Sughoshananda, Swami Atmavidananda, Swami Vijayananda, Brahmacharini Anupama Chaitanya and Brahmachari Narayana Chaitanya. Evening sessions with Arati and Bhajans invoked devotion in all.

Besides these, everyone was enthralled with lucid Satsang sessions on ‘Mantras for Success Geeta Speaks’ by Brahmacharini Maitreyi Chaitanya, Brahmacharini Anupama Chaitanya and Brahmacharini Usha Chaitanya, and ‘Gurudev Mahima’ by Swami Vijayananda, Brahmachari Vighnesh Chaitanya and Brahmachari Ved Chaitanya.

A highlight was a special Q&A session with Swami Swaroopananda where participants freely asked their doubts about life situations and received clarity on each. A night walk challenge added spice to the entire Conference, helping each participant face their own fears and overcome them.

The Conference provided a platform for attendees to engage in meaningful discussions, workshops, and activities, empowering them to embody Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda’s teachings and make a positive impact in society. The Conference concluded ceremoniously with offering of gratitude unto the Guruparampara, taking the Chinmaya Pledge and lowering of the CHYK-dhvaja. Participants left with renewed zeal and determination to uphold the values of the Chinmaya Yuva Kendra and continue their journey of self-discovery and service at the highest altar.

Admissions are now open for Chinmaya Nursery, Worli, Mumbai – a ‘Preschool with a difference’. Chinmaya Nursery follows an innovative curriculum, integrating contemporary pedagogy with the wisdom and values of our traditional Indian knowledge systems and culture in modern day classrooms. It focuses on a holistic education philosophy of all dimensions of a child’s personality and implements it through a structured teaching-learning programme known as the Chinmaya Vision Programme (CVP). The CVP is a set of principles and guidelines that concretise the vision of education outlined by Swami Chinmayananda, who believed “Children are the very cream of our generation, and they are the rulers and makers of tomorrow. Upon them depends the future of our nation, and the safety of our culture and tradition.”

A group of seekers spent a weekend at Chinmaya Amarnath Ashram in Pittsburgh from 26 to 28 April 2024. The retreat was themed ‘The Joy of Change’. The theme of the retreat revolved around the sacredness of relationships, particularly focusing on vivaha, the journey of marriage, and its profound impact on personal growth and spiritual upliftment. Participants, representing various stages of relationships, embarked on a journey of self-discovery and relationship enrichment.

The retreat also featured a Bala Vihar component, where children engaged in art and storytelling activities on Lord Hanuman. This was led by a group of graduating Seekers to Facilitators, a programme intended to train seekers in becoming confident facilitators of Sanatana Dharma, with a focus around the next generation of students.

The retreat provided a nurturing environment for individuals to explore and deepen their understanding of relationships. Discourses rooted in the ancient wisdom of the Narada Bhakti Sutra shed light on the essence of love, devotion and mutual respect within partnerships. Retreaters were guided to cultivate 12 virtues essential for fostering strong and harmonious relationships, empowering them to become better partners.

Each day at the retreat was a blend of introspective practices and meaningful actions. Friday evening started off with an introductory discourse and discussion groups. Saturday morning commenced with a  revitalizing yoga session, promoting physical well-being and inner harmony. The afternoon was dedicated to seva activities, including tree planting and community clean-up efforts, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and service. Saturday evening was adorned with soulful bhajans in the serene surroundings of the Amarnath shrine creating moments of spiritual connection and reflection. On Sunday, retreaters were encouraged to share their learnings with each other. The retreat culminated with participants leaving with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper commitment to nurturing their relationships.

The new campus of Chinmaya Vishwa Vidyapeeth (CVV) Deemed University was inaugurated on 12 May 2024. The new complex, called Lalita Vidya Pratishthanam, includes the Chellaram academic block, boys’ and girls’ hostels, which were inaugurated by the global Head of Chinmaya Mission and the Chancellor of CVV, Swami Swaroopananda, in the presence of the Founding Chancellor of CVV, Swami Tejomayananda, and Chinmaya Mission Kerala Head Swami Viviktananda, coinciding with the birthday of Shri Adi Shankaracharya.

The auspicious occasion witnessed the presence of eminent personalities. Managing Trustee of CVV, Dr. AppaRao Mukkamala, welcomed the gathering, and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ajay Kapoor expressed the vote of thanks.

Swami Swaroopananda said that Swami Chinmayananda’s vision and dream will become a reality. He connected the inaugural function with the consecration ceremony of Shri Ram Mandir at Ayodhya in January. Swami Chinmayananda’s 108th birthday falls exactly 108 days after the consecration ceremony, and during that time, we are blessed to inaugurate our new campus.

During the function, the donors of CVV were recognized, and it was an auspicious moment for everyone associated with this long-cherished dream. Swami Swaroopananda emphasized that we should always be proud of our Indian roots and our rich cultural heritage. Through CVV, we aim to pass on our age-old culture along with contemporary science, and the vision of Swami Chinmayananda is thereby being fulfilled through CVV.

Before the inauguration, Swami Saradananda from Chinmaya International Foundation performed Shri Ganesh and Saraswati Puja, as well as Guru Paduka Puja. Distinguished individuals who have contributed to Chinmaya Mission for the establishment of CVV graced the occasion. Piravom MLA Anoop Jacob, President of the Pambakkuda Gram Panchayat and Thirumaradi Grama Panchayat, and many more dignitaries witnessed the occasion. Noteworthy dignitaries from CVV such as Dean Academics and Registrar In-Charge Prof. T. Ashokan, Provost Prof. Sudheer Babu Yarlagadda, Executive Secretary of Trust N.M. Sundar, and Trustees participated in the inauguration ceremony.

The 80-acre campus at Onakkoor is a milestone in the journey of Chinmaya Mission. This state-of-the-art campus will offer a wide range of courses, including Bachelor of Technology programmes, MBA, and many more. Equipped with modern laboratories, classrooms, and libraries, the campus promises to provide students with unparalleled facilities to pursue their academic and extracurricular interests. In addition to academic pursuits, the institution aims to nurture students’ talents in various fields including arts and sports, providing them with ample opportunities for holistic development.

The inauguration of the new academic complex marks a significant step towards realizing this vision. Moreover, the institution is committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. Plans are underway to implement eco-friendly practices such as water purification plants and the preservation of natural water bodies to ensure a greener campus. Additionally, the construction of buildings will adhere to eco-conscious principles, integrating seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

The grand spiritual event, Chinmaya Sankaram 2024, which honoured the legacies of Shri Adi Sankaracharya and Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda, was organized from 8 May to 12 May 2024, by Chinmaya Seva Trust Kerala (CSTK), with support from CCMT. Read the detailed report below.

The Ratha Yatra was flagged off on 4 May 2024 by the esteemed West Bengal Governor, Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose, at the Chinmaya International Foundation (CIF) – the ancient maternal birth home of Shri Adi Sankaracharya in Veliyanad, Ernakulam.

During the prelude event, Governor Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose handed the flag to Chief Coordinator Brahmachari Sudheer Chaitanya, in the presence of Swami Viviktananda (Regional Head of Chinmaya Mission Kerala), the Trustees of CSTK and other dignitaries and devotees. In his address, the Governor fondly reminisced about Swami Chinmayananda, enriching the atmosphere with his heartfelt words.

Day 1 Highlights – 8 May 2024

With the break of dawn on 8 May, the 108th Jayanti day of Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda began with the auspicious Ganapati Homa performed by Swami Sharadananda at the Ernakulathappan Ground. The auspicious ceremony, conducted in the presence of Swami Viviktananda and numerous devotees.

Later in the evening, the Ratha carrying the Nitya Jyoti from CIF was ceremoniously welcomed at the Chinmaya Sankaram venue, following its tour across the Ernakulam district. The Nitya Jyoti was reverently received and used to kindle the lamp at the venue in a sacred ceremony by Swamins and Brahmacharins present.

Swami Sharadananda then performed Guru Paduka Puja, invoking the blessings and guidance of the revered Gurus – Shri Adi Sankaracharya and Swami Chinmayananda.

The inaugural ceremony of Chinmaya Sankaram 2024 began with a sacred Poornakumbha offering to Swami Swaroopananda, the Global Head of Chinmaya Mission. The event was graced by the presence of distinguished personalities, including Shri Adv. P.S. Sreedharan Pillai (Honourable Governor of Goa), Swami Viviktanada, Shri A. Gopalakrishnan (General Convenor, Chinmaya Sankaram), Shri R. Suresh Mohan (Chief Sevak of Chinmaya Seva Trust) and Dr. Leela Ramamurthy (Trustee of CMECT G.C and President of the Vidyalaya Board of Management).

Shri A. Gopalakrishnan delivered a warm welcome address, setting the tone for the event. Swami Viviktanada then provided a brief introduction to Chinmaya Sankaram.

Swami Swaroopananda, in his benedictory speech, eloquently remembered the vision and mission of Pujya Gurudev, invoking his teachings and legacy. Shri Adv. P.S. Sreedharan Pillai, the Honourable Governor of Goa, expressed his pride in witnessing Kerala’s emphasis on spirituality, highlighting the eternal values of Sanatana Dharma and acknowledging the profound contributions of Shri Adi Sankara and Swami Chinmayananda.

Shri R. Suresh Mohan shared poignant insights into the life and vision of Swami Chinmayananda, inspiring all present with his words.

Day 2 – Highlights – 9 May 2024

The day began with the reverberating chants of the Gayatri Homa inside the auditorium, invoking the blessings of the divine.

In his enlightening address on ‘Sankara – The Spiritual General,’ Swami Mitrananda urged the audience to think of Shri Adi Sankaracharya as not just a divine incarnation but as an inspired human being, for only then we can truly appreciate his achievements and be inspired to live to our true potential. His insightful words resonated with the audience, encouraging a deeper understanding of both Adi Sankara’s and Swami Chinmayananda’s contributions.

The Sannyasi Sammelan and Yati Puja that followed, brought together 108 Sannyasins from various sampradayas to Ernakulathappan ground. Grihasta yajamans reverently offered padapuja to these Sannyasins, representing the Guru Parampara. Swami Saradananda led the ceremony, guiding the yajamans in the sacred offerings, accompanied by Vedic chants and the heartfelt gratitude of all present.

Esteemed spiritual leaders, including Swami Chidananda Puri from Kolathur Advaita Ashram, Swami Purnamrtananda Puri from Amritanandamayi Math, Swami Saradananda from Sivagiri Math, Swami Nandatmajananda from Ramakrishna Mission, Swami Hari Brahmendrananda from Uttarkashi, and Swami Pranjanananda Tirtha Padar from Vazhur Teerthapadashram, participated in the Sannyasi Sammelan, enriching the atmosphere with their wisdom and presence.

In the afternoon, over 3000 devotees participated in the samashti parayanam of the Soundaryalahari stotra, led by Pujya Shri Shri Shankara Bharati Swami. Prior to the chanting, he spoke about the beauty of the Soundarya Lahari stotra and praised the work of Chinmaya Mission, highlighting the relevance of Swami Chinmayananda’s teachings in the modern era.

Swami Swaroopananda delivered a profound lecture on ‘Sambhavami Yuge Yuge,’ enthralling all with his words of wisdom and spiritual insight.

The day’s events were further adorned by cultural performances from the talented students of Chinmaya College Tripunithura, Chinmaya Mission College Kannur, and Chinmaya Art and Science College Kannur, adding a vibrant and celebratory touch to the spiritual gathering.

Day 3 – Highlights – 10 May 2024

The day began on an auspicious note with a Samashti Guruparampara Puja guided by Swami Sharadananda.

Swami Swaroopananda’s talk was insightful and inspiring. In his first talk, he delved into the Bhagavad Gita, highlighting the importance of dharma as the essence of existence. He emphasised that understanding one’s dharma is crucial for finding true happiness and avoiding the pitfalls of adharma.

In the second session, he elaborated on the life and teachings of Shri Adi Sankaracharya, emphasising the transformative power of studying Vedanta.

The third session saw him sharing his personal journey of discovering the Bhagavad Gita and his admiration for Swami Chinmayananda. He underscored the need to question beliefs, lamenting the loss of the spirit of sharing and the diminishing value of dharma in modern lives.

In the final session, he emphasised the importance of understanding one’s own karma and acting with divinity in every action. He reminisced about the fond memories shared with Swami Chinmayananda, highlighting the impact of their interactions on his spiritual journey.

Shri Dattatreya Hosabale, the General Secretary of RSS, delivered an exceptional talk on Swami Chinmayananda, highlighting his role as a Spiritual Revolutionary. In his speech, Shri Hosabale emphasised Swami Chinmayananda’s tireless service and profound metaphysical influence. He underscored that the birth anniversary of such luminaries is not merely a celebration but a perpetual source of joy and inspiration. Shri Hosabale also noted the central government’s efforts to actualize Swami Chinmayananda’s visions in the country, particularly in education, as evidenced by the National Education Policy. He highlighted the significant achievement of realizing Swami Chinmayananda’s dream of building a Rama temple in Ayodhya, a milestone accomplished in the revered leader’s 108th year.

Prof. Ajay Kapoor, the Vice Chancellor of Chinmaya Vishwa Vidyapeeth (CVV), and the panel of experts representing the University, made a special presentation. He explained that the goal of CVV is to help students lead a happy life in all aspects, including their body, mind and intellect. CVV empowers students through a global benchmark curriculum, international exposure, and global education.

Dr. T. Asokan, Registrar and Dean–Academics, spoke about the University’s achievements, such as digital compliance and NEP regulations.  Dr. Sudheer Babu Yarlagadda, the Provost, revealed that CVV is soon to have an Oceanographic branch, making it the third education institute to get Oceanography. He discussed industry tie-ups and opportunities available at CVV.

Dr. Sunitha Grandhee highlighted the importance of the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS). Jayalakshmi Nanda, Director-Admissions, provided a brief about various campus and programmes, mission, and vision of CVV. The presentation was enriching and gave a detailed outlook about CVV.

Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, the full time Member-HR of the Capacity Building Commission of the Government of India, reminisced how as a child he would reluctantly attend Bala Vihar looking forward to the delicious prasad at the end. He reflected on how the seeds sown in those early years eventually bear fruit in later life.

Highlighting the fact that our nation has finally awakened to the transformative resource the Bhagavad Gita, he gave insights into the initiative ‘Mission Karmayogi’ – the National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building. This programme, which was successfully implemented in Gujarat by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is now being implemented nationally. Through it, the government intends implementing the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita to train ‘karmacharis’ to inculcate the true spirit of service to become effective ‘karmayogis’.

Swami Viviktananda delivered a heartfelt address, expressing profound gratitude to all who contributed to the grand event. He extended his thanks to the trustees, various committees, staff, teachers, students, Swamins, Brahmacharins, devotees and attendees, for their dedicated service and participation.

Day 4 – Highlights – 11 May 2024

The fourth day of Chinmaya Sankaram 2024 commenced with a serene gathering of devotees, offering heartfelt prayers through the recitation of auspicious stotras such as Totakashtakam, Gurustotram, Tapovanashatakam and Gurupadukastotram, as a mark of reverence to the Guruparampara, at the venue.

Following this, the devotees joined in a Nagar Sankeertan procession led by Swami Abhayananda, resonating with the vibrant chants of “Om Namah Shivaya.” The procession, filled with joy and devotion, made its way to the Ernakulathappan Shiva Temple, where the air was filled with the divine vibrations of the chants. Inside the temple compound, the atmosphere was serene as the devotees continued their chants, immersing themselves in the divine presence. The procession concluded with a peaceful darshan inside the temple.

Adv. Shri J Sai Deepak, an Indian Supreme Court lawyer, author and public speaker, was enthusiastically welcomed by the audience at Chinmaya Sankaram 2024. His presentation on the ‘Challenges of Dharma’ was exceptional, emphasizing the need for various Hindu organizations to establish a system that ensures quality education to impart the sanctity of Sanatana Dharma to future generations.

He emphasised that today’s youth are the torchbearers of Sanatana Dharma, underscoring the crucial role of parents in guiding and nurturing students from a young age. He also stressed that a holistic education must include learning about one’s own culture, as it is integral to one’s overall development.

Group Captain Prashant B. Nair, an esteemed alumnus of Palakkad Pallavur Chinmaya Vidyalaya, received a heartfelt welcome at Chinmaya Sankaram 2024. As the team leader of India’s prestigious space travel project, Gaganyaan, his presence was particularly honoured. Accompanied by his wife, the renowned actress Lena, he was graciously felicitated by Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda. Addressing the youth of Group Captain Prashant B. Nair shared profound insights from his life, highlighting the impact of Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda’s teachings through personal anecdotes and examples. He also emphasized the significant role every citizen plays in serving and working for the betterment of the country.

The summer showers brought a refreshing respite from the heat, enhancing the atmosphere for the devotees gathered for the Sampoorna Bhagavad Gita Parayanam, which was attended by over 3000 participants. Prior to the event, a special edition of the Bhagavad Gita in Malayalam, released to commemorate the 108th Jayanti of Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda, was distributed for free at various locations across Kerala and at the venue of Chinmaya Sankaram.

The chanting commenced with the auspicious Gita Dhyanam and was led by senior Swamins and Brahmacharins of Chinmaya Mission. The session concluded with the uplifting Bhagavad Gita Aarti, conducted by Brahmachari Sudheer Chaitanya.

Adding to the spiritual ambience, the students of Chinmaya Vishwa Vidyapeeth (CVV) presented an outstanding musical theatre performance titled ‘Chaturanga – The Game of Life,’ which was based on Indian Knowledge Traditions. The students’ exceptional performance perfectly synchronized with the script, music, and choreography, effectively delivered the essential message of Vedanta.

In the session that followed, Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda captivated the audience with his eloquent words, offering a touching vāk-pujā to ‘Gurudev and Gita’. He highlighted the deep and inseparable connection between Swami Chinmayananda and the Bhagavad Gita, observing how the two had become synonymous over the years. He elaborated on Swami Chinmayananda’s profound engagement with the Gita — not only did he study and contemplate its teachings himself, he taught the Gita, wrote commentary on the entire text such that everyone could relate to it in a language they understood. During his talks Gurudev made sure that people had the Gita book in their hands and encouraged them to chant its verses. He lived the Gita’s teachings in every way, thereby earning a place in Bhagavan’s heart. Swami Tejomayananda urged everyone to emulate this approach in their lives too, striving to please both God and Guru and ever ensuring the connection with ‘2G’— God and Guru.

Day 5 – Highlights – 12 May 2024

The concluding day of Chinmaya Sankaram 2024 coincided with the sacred Adi Sankara Jayanti, celebrated at his ancient maternal birthplace in the Melpazhur Mana at Veliyanadu, Ernakulam. Swami Sharadananda led the beautiful pooja offerings and Rudrabhishekam in the sacred room where Shri Adi Shankara was born. Delegates who had participated in the event at Ernakulathappan ground traveled to Veliyanad to witness the ceremony, offer their prayers and seek blessings at the sanctum.

Later in the day, devotees made their way to the new campus of Chinmaya Vishwa Vidyapeeth, which was inaugurated the previous day.

The participants from across Bharat and the globe who had especially travelled to Ernakulam, Kerala, to witness the five day event, felt overwhelmed seeing the scale of arrangements and eagerly looked forward to all the events. Students and teachers from Chinmaya Vidyalayas and Chinmaya Colleges across Kerala and also the Chinmaya Vishwa Vidyapeeth (CVV) were encouraged to participate in the event. A special team of volunteers from various parts of Kerala along with staff and teachers from the various Chinmaya Vidyalayas and CVV took up seva at various stalls including the registration, transportation and help-desk, the kitchen, food serving counters and many other areas to ensure the smooth running of the entire event.

The venue was specially structured to accommodate the entire audience in a grand well decorated auditorium, fitted with LED display screens at intervals, and air conditioning to beat the heat. The rest of the venue provided open ground spaces arranged with outdoor seating and a separate pandal for food counters. Meticulous planning was done for food arrangements with a variety of dishes served on all days, catering to crowds of 2500-3000 people daily.

There was also a grand pandal for exhibition stalls featuring various wings of the Mission, Chinmaya Publications, CORD, Chinmaya Upahar, CIF, CVV, CIRS, Chinmaya Vijaya, and a few sponsors. A display of various photographs depicting the life of Pujya Gurudev was specially arranged in a section of the Pandal.