Srinagar, August 17,2026- LG Manoj Sinha visited the Shri Ramakrishna Mahasammelan Ashram in Anantnag on the auspicious occasion of Samadhi Pratishtha Divas, Nag Panchami Mahotsav, and the Purnahuti of the Yajna, marking a significant spiritual and cultural event in South Kashmir. During the visit, the LG also laid the foundation stone for a series of new initiatives dedicated to heritage and cultural preservation at the historic Ashram.
Tribute to the Ashram’s Legacy
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor expressed deep reverence for the Ashram, describing it as an institution that has preserved the wisdom of sages over generations. He paid homage to Swami Ashokanand Ji Maharaj, recalling his visionary resolve in 1937 that transformed the Ashram into a vibrant spiritual centre. According to the LG, Swami Ashokanand Ji Maharaj had envisioned not merely a place of worship, but a living institution carrying forward the message of Sanatana Dharma while serving the practical needs of society.
Reflecting on the saint’s enduring influence, Sinha noted that the legacy left behind after Swami Ashokanand Ji Maharaj’s passing in 1971 continues to shape the Ashram’s culture of service, discipline, and dedication even today.
A Call for Selfless Service and Unity
The Lieutenant Governor called upon citizens to embrace selfless service, sacrifice, and respect for all religions, while nurturing courage, compassion, discipline, and unity within themselves. He said Indian civilisation has always viewed spirituality and nature as inseparable, drawing on the Isha Upanishad to remind the gathering of the Divine’s presence across all creation. Amid global climate challenges, he urged young people to take greater responsibility toward rivers, forests, animals, and all living beings, ensuring development remains sustainable and in harmony with nature.
Sinha also reflected on the philosophy of karma, remarking that while the past shapes the present, present actions will largely determine the future.
New Development Initiatives at the Ashram
Highlighting the upcoming projects at the Ashram, the Lieutenant Governor referred to the construction of a Yatri Niwas, renovation works, a new dining complex, and the expansion of the Yajnashala, expressing confidence that these initiatives would translate faith into tangible action. He stressed that in Indian culture, spirituality inherently carries a sense of responsibility toward the world, expressed through selfless service. Drawing from teachings in the Bhagavad Gita, he added that when action is performed as service and service becomes dedication, even ordinary work transforms into sadhana.
Invoking Swami Vivekananda’s Message
The Lieutenant Governor also praised the Ashram’s affiliation with the Swami Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, which operates on the guiding principle of working for one’s own liberation and for the welfare of the world. He urged the youth to draw inspiration from Swami Vivekananda’s teachings of self-confidence, fearlessness, and selfless service, reminding them that “we are the makers of our own destiny” and that true strength lies within every individual.
Referring to Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy, Sinha said true richness lies in serving without expecting reward, and called for the Ashram’s volunteers, devotees, and office-bearers to inspire society toward greater selfless action through their satsangs.
Reaffirming India’s Cultural Ethos
The Lieutenant Governor reiterated India’s civilisational strength in embracing unity in diversity, describing the principle of Sarva Dharma Samabhava — equal respect for all religions — as India’s enduring gift to the world. He further noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, new opportunities have opened up for society across Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the country, while stressing that individuals must prepare themselves with courage, hard work, and self-confidence to make the most of them.
The event was attended by Padma Shri Brij Lal Bhat, senior civil and police officials including Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg and Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, along with Ashram members, Vivekananda Kendra representatives, and a large gathering of devotees and citizens.
Ramakrishna Mahasammelan Ashram Anantnag: Historic Heritage Initiatives Begin
