Wednesday, 17 September 2025

THE 55TH ANNIVERSARY OF VIVEKANANDA ROCK MEMORIAL AND UNIVERSAL BROTHERHOOD DAY CELEBRATION REPORT - 2025



DATE                         :
11-09-2025

TIME                         :2.00 P.M.

VENUE                      : Swami Vivekananda Sabhagriham

CHIEF GUEST        : Dr.S. JOSEPH JAWHAR, Ph.D.,                                                                              

                                     Principal, Arunachala College of Engineering for Women, Vellichanthai.

SPECIAL GUEST    : Dr.M.CHANDRAN, Ph.D.,                                                                                      

                                    Asst. Proffessor & Head, Dept. Of Chemistry,Vivekananda College,                       Agasteeswaram                

PRESIDED BY         : Mann.REKHA DAVEY DIDI, JOINT General Secretary, VRM. & VK.

COMPERING          : Smt. M.ABINAYA LAKSHMI, V.K.V.Teacher

NO. OF PARTICIPANTS: 1350

Introduction

            Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Kanyakumari celebrated the 55th Anniversary of the dedication of the Vivekananda Rock Memorial along with Universal Brotherhood Day on 11th Sep 2025.  The programme commenced at 2 p.m with great enthusiasm and devotion, commemorating the historic Chicago address of Swami Vivekananda in 1893.

Programme conduction

            The programme was gracefully compered by Smt. M.Abinaya Lakshmi, Teacher of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, who ensured the smooth flow of events.

Inaugural Ceremony




            The event began with the lighting of the lamp by Mann.Rekha Davey Didi, Joint General Secretrary of VRM & VK, along with the chief guest Dr.S.Joseph Jawahar, Ph.D., Principal, Arunachala college of Engineering for Women, Vellichanthai, the Special Guest Dr.M.Chandran, Ph.D., Asst. Professor & Head, Dept. Of Chemistry, Vivekananda College, Agasteeswaram, Sri. Ananthasri Padmanaban, Administrative officer of Vivekananda Kendra and Smt.K.G.Sariga, Principal of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Kanyakumari.  This was followed by the soulful singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ as the invocation which was sung by the students of VKV.

Welcome Address

            The welcome address was delivered by our Principal, Smt.K.G.Sariga who warmly greeted the dignitaries, staff, students, parents and other invitees.

Chicago Address Presentation

            One of the most memorable moments of the prgramme was the Chicago Address, presented by J.Sharva Rakshitha Sri of class IV.  She dressed as Swami Vivekananda, confidently delivered the famous speech that Swami Vivekananda had presented at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893.  The performance was one of the highlights of the celebration.

Chief Guest Address

            The Chief guest, Dr. S.Joseph Jawahar, Principal of Arunachala College of Engineering for women, Vellichanthai delivered the thought Provoking address that captivated the audience.  He began by speaking on the significance of Universal Brotherhood Day and explained that the message of Swami Vivekananda is timeless and relevant in every situation of life.  He stressed that every individual should contribute positively to society.  He explained how true religion is felt in our actions and service and illustrated this with inspiring stories, reminding everyone that “Service to poor is service to God”.

            He also emphasized the importance of having a clear goal in life, drawing from the teachings of Swami Vivekananda.  He reminded the words of Swami Vivekananda, “All power is within you, you can do anything and everything.”  he urged the gathering to cultivate self-confidence.  He motivated the students to believe in themselves and strive for excellence.  He encouraged the students to initiate these ideals in their lives and dedicate themselves to the service of the nation and humanity.  He pointed out that in today’s world even in campus interviews, school marks are also considered important along with college performance.  He emphasized the students to take their school studies seriously and always put in their best efforts.

Group Song

            The Patriotic song in Hindi was sung by the students of VKV which filled the atmosphere with national pride and devotion.

Special Guest Address

            The special guest Dr.M.Chandran, Asst. Professor & Head, Dept. Of Chemistry, Vivekananda College, Agasteeswaram delivered an enlightening address.  He stressed that it is India’s duty to guide the world.  He quoted the inspiring words of Sri.Subromania Bharathi - from there he narrated about the spiritual traditions of India beginning with Lord Buddha and went on to explain the life history of Swami Vivekananda.  He also touched upon the broader impact of Swamiji’s teaching and mentioned how they influence many movements including the formation of RSS.  He motivated the students to carry forward the legacy of Swami Vivekananda.

Prize Distribution Ceremony

            Following the special guest’s address, the prize distribution ceremony was conducted.  The prize list was read out by Smt.Sumathi, teacher of VKV.

Ø  The prizes were awarded to the winners of the Inter school competition conducted on the theme “quotes of Swami Vivekananda” and their explanations.  A total of 5 schools including 3 Government schools and 2 matriculation schools participated eagerly with 28 students taking part in the event.  All the participants were encouraged with appreciation certificates while the first and the second prizes were given to the winners for their excellent presentation of Swamiji’s inspiring words.

Ø  Next, the employees of Vivekananda Kendra & Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya who have rendered 20 years and 10 years of dedicated service were specially honoured for their commitment and contribution.

Presidential address

            The presidential address was delivered by Mann. Radha Didi.  In her inspiring speech, she recalled the struggles faced by Swami Vivekananda in America before the historic 11th Sep. 1893 Chicago address.  She explained how from 11th Sep onwards, Swamiji was celebrated across America.

            She emphasized how Swamiji’s knowledge, spiritual strength and universal outlook deeply influenced everyone who heard him.  Didi also highlighted the significance of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family) and Sanatana Dharma.  She pointed out Swamiji’s message carried a miraculous impact on the entire world.  She concluded by reminding everyone that his vision and values remain relevant today.

Presenting Memento

            As a mark of gratitude and respect, the chief guest and special guest were honoured with mementos which were presented by Mann. Rekha Didi.

Vote of thanks

            The vote of thanks was proposed by Vice-Principal Shri.S.Sanjeevi Rajan.  He began by expressing gratitude to the almighty for the successful conduct of the function.  He extended his heart felt thanks to the dignitaries, Principal Smt.K.G.Sariga who had received the Best Teacher award in 2025, acknowledging her dedication and achievements.

            Further he extended his thanks to Radha didi, Administrative Secretary, VRM & VK, Shri. Chokkalingam, Principal of Amrita Vidyalayam, Parents, teachers, students for their valuable support.  His words brought the formal ceremony to a fitting close, filled with gratitude.

Cultural programme


            After the formal proceedings, the celebration continued with mixed cultural programme presented by the students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya.  A variety of dramas, dances and performances were staged each carrying a creative and thought provoking theme.  The artistic presentations were not only entertaining but also deeply meaningful, making the cultural programme one of the highlights of the day’s celebration.







Conclusion

            The grand celebration of Universal Brotherhood day came to an end with soulful chanting of shanthi mantra which filled the atmosphere with peace and harmony.

 

 

 

 

 




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