Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora - News , CelebrationsRamakrishna Kutir, Almora - News , Celebrationshttps://almora.rkmm.org/news/celebrationsSat, 04 Apr 2026 09:12:19 +0530http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[77th Republic Day - 26 January 2026]]>https://almora.rkmm.org/news/post/77th-republic-day-26-january-202677th Republic Day Celebration – 2025 The 77th Republic Day was celebrated at our Ashrama premises on Monday, 26th January 2026 , from 10:30 AM to 11:45 ]]>

77th Republic Day Celebration – 2025

The 77th Republic Day was celebrated at our Ashrama premises on Monday, 26th January 2026, from 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM.


The program commenced with the flag hoisting by the Chief Guest, Sri Ajay Verma, Mayor, Nagar Nigam Almora, followed by the singing of the National Anthem.

Students from GIC Lodhia, SSJ University, Almora, and the Vivekananda Study Circle presented patriotic songs and speeches, adding to the spirit of the occasion. Students and other dignitaries delivered speeches on various aspects.

About 50 school and college students attended the programme.

The program concluded with the distribution of refreshments to all attendees.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS
]]>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:05:19 +0530<![CDATA[42nd National Youth Day 12th January, 2026]]>https://almora.rkmm.org/news/post/164th-janma-tithi-puja-of-swami-vivekananda-10-jan.-20261Programmes Held on Sunday, 12 January 2026 42nd National Youth Day 2026 Celebration Time:  10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The 42nd National Youth Day was c ]]>

Programmes Held on Sunday, 12 January 2026


42nd National Youth Day 2026 Celebration

Time: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.


The 42nd National Youth Day was celebrated at Vivekananda Corner, in front of the statue of Swami Vivekananda. The Chief Guest, Sri Ramji Sharan Sharma, CDO, Almora, inaugurated the programme by garlanding the statue of Swami Vivekananda.

Monastic members chanted Vedic hymns, and all dignitaries offered flowers at Swamiji’s feet.


The Special Guests, Sri Ajay Verma, Mayor, Municipal Corporation, Almora, and Sri Prakash Chandra Joshi, former Chairman, Nagar Palika Parishad, Almora, offered flowers and delivered speeches highlighting various aspects of Swamiji’s life in Almora.

Students and other dignitaries spoke on Swami Vivekananda’s life and teachings, with special emphasis on his inspiration to the youth. In his address, the CDO, Almora, encouraged students to imbibe Swamiji’s ideals in their daily lives.

Students from Government Inter College, Lodhia, and Vivekananda Study Circle presented a cultural programme based on the life and message of Swami Vivekananda.


About 50 school and college students and 100 other participants attended the programme. Food packets were distributed to all attendees, and refreshments were served to the guests.


Winter Relief Distribution

(Distribution of Blankets, Sarees, Sweaters & Woollen Caps)

Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m.


Relief materials were distributed to needy people from nearby villages at the Ashrama premises, as detailed below:

  • 75 Blankets

  • 50 Woollen Caps

  • 44 Sarees

  • 8 Ladies’ Sweaters


PHOTOS & VIDEOS
]]>Mon, 12 Jan 2026 15:27:31 +0530<![CDATA[173rd Tithi Puja of Sri Sri Ma Sarada (11Dec. 2025)]]>https://almora.rkmm.org/news/post/173rd-tithi-puja-of-sri-sri-ma-sarada-11dec.-2025The 173rd Birth Anniversary of Holy Mother Sri Sri Sarada Devi was celebrated at Ramakrishna Kutir on Thursday, 11th December, 2025. The day ]]>

The 173rd Birth Anniversary of Holy Mother Sri Sri Sarada Devi was celebrated at Ramakrishna Kutir on Thursday, 11th December, 2025. The day started with Mangal Arati at 6:30 AM followed by-


Mangalarati - 06.30 am

Vedic Chanting & Bhajan - 06:35 am

Puja  - 08:00 am

Havan - 10 am

Bhogarati & Pushpanjali - 11:30 am

Prasad Distribution - 12:30 pm

Evening Aarati - 06:05 pm

Bhajans & Matri Sangeet - 06:30 pm


Bhajans and Matri Sangeet were sung by Swami Harishwarananada  Tabla by Sriman Mohit Aswal, a student of Ashrama. 


Around 80+ devotees, guests, students & workers were fed the noon prasad.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS
]]>Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:07:19 +0530<![CDATA[Almora visit of Srimad Swami Divyanandaji Maharaj (19-21st Nov. 2025)]]>https://almora.rkmm.org/news/post/almora-visit-of-srimad-swami-suhitanandaji-maharaj-2-4-nov.-202411On  19 November , one new building (Vivekananda Bhavan), one restored old building (Shivananda Kutir), and a museum in the existing hall below the ]]>

Inauguration of Museum, Vivekananda Bhavan & Shivananda Kutir (After Restoration)
​and Realease of Books


On 19 November, one new building (Vivekananda Bhavan), one restored old building (Shivananda Kutir), and a museum in the existing hall below the temple at Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora were inaugurated by Revered Swami Divyanandaji Maharaj, Vice-President, Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission.  presence of a gathering of monks, brahmacharis and devotees.



1. Turiyananda Divyasmriti Museum



The Turiyananda Divyasmriti Museum, showcasing personal articles used by Swami Turiyananda and Swami Subodhananda, along with numerous rare and old photographs of Ramakrishna Kutir, was ceremonially opened.
The conservation and display work was undertaken by the INTACH Delhi Chapter, with most of the expenses supported through INTACH’s CSR contribution, and the remaining by a devotee.

2. Vivekananda Bhavan (Students’ Home)


The newly constructed Vivekananda Bhavan, a residence for students from remote villages and underprivileged backgrounds pursuing studies at Almora College and Soban Singh Jeena University, was inaugurated next.
This three-storey building has 10 rooms with a capacity to accommodate 35 students. The project was funded by RVNL under its CSR scheme. 
Structural design and architectural work were executed by Shri Manoj Mehra, Bageshwar.

3. Shivananda Kutir (Restoration)


The 87-year-old Shivananda Kutir, constructed by B.Doraiswamy- a disciple of Swami Shivananda was restored to its original architectural integrity, was then dedicated to the public. The restored Kutir will now serve as a devotional accommodation space for visiting devotees. The restoration was funded by a US-based devotee. Conservation Architect: Dr. Neeta Das; Contractor: NIRMAN, Kolkata.

4. Book Release

  • (i) Turiyananda Divyasmriti – A booklet detailing the historical and spiritual significance of the objects displayed in the new museum.

  • (ii) Ramakrishna Kutir: Glimpses from the Past (English) 

  •  (iii) Ramakrishna Kutir: Ek Itihaas (Hindi) – Illustrated books on the history of Ramakrishna Kutir, featuring short biographies of the founders and numerous rare archival photographs.

  • (iv) The Eternal Quest: Life & Teachings of Swami Turiyananda, authored by Shri Mihir Kanti Das, Bengaluru, who has transferred the IPR to Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora. All proceeds from the book will remain with the Ashrama.

Programme Highlights

  • Felicitation of key contributors involved in the construction and restoration projects at Ramakrishna Kutir.

  • Distribution of food packets at the conclusion of the meeting.

Total Attendance: Approximately 120 participants.

Photos and Videos
]]>Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:48:00 +0530<![CDATA[79th Independence Day - 15 August 2025]]>https://almora.rkmm.org/news/post/79th-independence-day-15-august-2025   T he 79th Independence Day   was celebrated on 15th August 2025  beginning with hoisting the National fla ]]>

 The 79th Independence Day was celebrated on 15th August 2025 beginning with hoisting the National flag of India & singing the National Anthem followed by speeches by eminent guests & performances by students:

  • Sri Ajay Verma , Mayor, Nagar Nigam, Almora
  • Sri Ramji Sharan Sharan, Chief District Officer, Almora
  • Dr. Chandra Prakash Fuloria, Director, Swami Vivekananda Spiritual Circuit Study Centre and Museum Incharge, Department of History, SSJ University, Almora

     Some highlights of today's performance included:

    Sl.

    Program

    Time

    By

    1

    Flag Hoisting with the singing of National Anthem

    10:30 AM to 10:35 AM

    Swami Dhruveshananda, Adhyaksha & Guests

    2

    Welcome Song

    10:35 AM to 10:38 AM

    Students of Music Dept. of SSJ University

    3

    Inaugural Speech

    10:38 AM to 10:43 AM

    Swami Dhruveshananda, Adhyaksha

    4

    Student Performances

    10:43 AM to 10:55 AM

    Students of Vivekananda Study Circle

    1.  Shanti Mantra by Dhruv Chandra Joshi and others

    2.  Short Speech by Peeyush Joshi

    3.  Patriotic Song- ‘Jai Swantantra Te’ by Daksh Sharma

    4.  Speech on Sardar Patel by Ojas Rawat

    5.  Speech on Swami Vivekananda’s ideal of freedom by Chanchal Bar

    6. Poem recital by Himanshu Joshi

    7.  Saare Jahan Se Acha by Students of Music Dept. of SSJ University

    5

    Address by Guest of Honor

    10:55 AM to 11:00 AM

    Sri Ramji Sharan Sharma,
    CDO, Almora

    6

    Address by Chief Guest

    11:00 AM to 11:05 AM

    Sri Ajay Verma, Mayor, Almora

    7

    Swadesh Mantra

    11:05 AM to 11:10 AM

    Swami Mayadheeshananda

    8

    National Song
    (Vande Mataram)

    11:10 AM

    Chorus


    Anchoring &  coordination by Sri Chandra Prakash Fuloria


Around 80 Students, Staff & Local people attended the function. There was an arrangement of refreshment at the end.
PHOTOS & VIDEOS
]]>Sat, 16 Aug 2025 14:10:12 +0530<![CDATA[Governor's Visit to Kakrighat, 9th June, 2025]]>https://almora.rkmm.org/news/post/governer-s-visit-to-kakrighat-9th-june-2025Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Gurmit Singh, the Honourable Governor of Uttarakhand, paid a visit to Kakrighat on 9th June 2025. He had previously visited the site ]]>

Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Gurmit Singh, the Honourable Governor of Uttarakhand, paid a visit to Kakrighat on 9th June 2025. He had previously visited the site in June 2024. During this year's visit, he committed a contribution of ₹1.5 lakhs from the Raj Bhavan fund towards the development of the Akhandananda Library at Kakrighat.
He also discussed the idea of writing a book on the significance of the Jñānavṛkṣa, which would explore the confluence of science, environment, and spirituality. He expressed his wish for Ramakrishna Kutir to undertake this project.
The Governor was visibly delighted to revisit this sacred place, known for Swami Vivekananda’s meditative experience. Drawing a parallel with Buddha’s enlightenment under the Bodhi Vriksha, he remarked that he envisions the number of visitors and devotees to this holy site growing a hundredfold in the coming times.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS
]]>Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:42:26 +0530<![CDATA[Shodasi Puja (Phalaharini Kali Puja) - 26th May, 2025]]>https://almora.rkmm.org/news/post/shodasi-puja-phalaharini-kali-puja-26th-may-2025Phalaharini Kali Puja was celebrated at Ramakrishna Kutir on 26th May 2025. After the evening arati, a vishesh puja was held at the Temple, followed b ]]>

Phalaharini Kali Puja was celebrated at Ramakrishna Kutir on 26th May 2025. After the evening arati, a vishesh puja was held at the Temple, followed by Bhoga-arati and Pushpanjali. Kali kirtans and other bhajans were sung by Swami Harishwarananda. Around 60 devotees and students were served night prasad.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS
]]>Fri, 30 May 2025 16:39:59 +0530<![CDATA[Vivekananda Dwar Samman Samaroh, 30th March, 2025]]>https://almora.rkmm.org/news/post/vivekananda-dwar-samman-samaroh-30th-march-2025The public meeting was held on  30th March 2025  at the  Shivananda Hall of Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora , to  felicitate  the ke ]]>

The public meeting was held on 30th March 2025 at the Shivananda Hall of Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora, to felicitate the key people involved in the construction of Vivekananda Dwar.

The event was graced by:

  • Shri Ajay Tamta, Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways

  • Prof. Dr. Satpal Singh Bisht, Vice-Chancellor, Soban Singh Jeena University, Almora

  • Shri Ajay Verma, Mayor of Almora

  • Shri Prakash Chandra Joshi, Former Chairman of Almora Municipal Council

  • Shri Anil Shahi, Member, Commission for Prevention of Migration, Govt. of Uttarakhand

  • Other distinguished guests

Key Contributors Felicitated for the Construction of Vivekananda Dwar:

  • Architect: Tanisha Tiwari (Almora)

  • Structural Engineer: Manoj Mehra (Bageshwar)

  • Contractor: Srigar Infra (Deepak Pokhariya, Almora)

  • Sculptor: Nirjan De (Sargachhi, Murshidabad)

Chronology of Events:

  1. Vedic Chanting – Swami Vishweshananda & other monks and brahmacharis

  2. Lighting of the Lamp & Offering flowers at the feet of Swami Vivekananda

  3. Cultural Performance – By students

  4. Welcome Speech – Swami Dhruveshananda, President, Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora

  5. Felicitation & Honoring of Distinguished Guests

  6. Honoring Key Contributors to the Construction of Vivekananda Dwar

  7. Speeches by Distinguished Guests:Shri Prakash Chandra Joshi,Shri Ajay Verma, Prof. Dr. Satpal Singh Bisht, Shri Ajay Tamta

  8. Vote of Thanks & Program Coordination – Dr. Chandra Prakash Fuloria, Museum In-Charge & Director, Swami Vivekananda-Mahatma Gandhi Spiritual Tourism Circuit & Study Center, Soban Singh Jeena University, Almora


PHOTOS & VIDEOS
]]>Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:17:58 +0530<![CDATA[Inaguration of Vivekananda Dwar, 23rd March, 2025]]>https://almora.rkmm.org/news/post/inaguration-of-vivekananda-dwar-23rd-march-2025Vivekananda   Dwar , constructed by  Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora , on  NH 109 at Karbala Junction, Almora , was inaugurated on 22/03/2025 (after ]]>

Vivekananda Dwar, constructed by Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora, on NH 109 at Karbala Junction, Almora, was inaugurated on 22/03/2025 (afternoon) by Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttarakhand- Sri Pushkar Singh Dhami ji in the presence of Central Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways- Sri Ajay Tamta, Mayor of Almora- Sri Ajay Verma, and other distinguished guests.

The occasion was also graced by Swami Aseematmananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Dehradun; Swami Kalikeshananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Rishikesh; Swami Jnananishthananda, Adhyaksha,  Ashrama, Shyamlatal; Swami Suhridananda, Manager, Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati; and other revered monks.

Chronology of Events:

  • Arrival of dignitaries including CM Pushkar Singh Dhami ji
  • Presentation of flower bouquet, shawl, memento of Vivekananda Dwar, and a small statue of Swami Vivekananda to the CM by Swami Dhruveshananda
  • Lighting of the lamp and offering of flowers at Swami ’s feet by dignitaries
  • Ribbon cutting for the inauguration of  
  • Unveiling of the Information Panel showcasing the elements of   by the CM
  • Unveiling of the inauguration plaque by the CM
  • Departure of dignitaries

Due to unexpected weather conditions (rain), the program had to be curtailed slightly. However, despite this, the rest of the event went smoothly as planned, with enthusiastic participation from devotees, students, and local government officials. Everyone including all the dignitaries, monks, and attendees expressed their happiness and satisfaction.

Contributors to the Construction of  :

  • Architect: Tanisha Tiwari, Almora
  • Structural Engineer: Manoj Mehra, Bageshwar
  • Contractor: Srigar Infra (Deepak Pokhariya), Almora
  • Sculptor: Nirjan De, Sargachhi, Murshidabad
The Vivekananda Dwar, a majestic entrance gate to the city of Almorafeaturing a statue of Swami Vivekananda on horseback—a first in history—along with other statues facing both sides of the . The total cost of construction was approximately ₹65 lakhs.

This grand structure commemorates Swamiji’s triumphant return to Almora in 1897 after his historic campaign in the West. When he arrived, the people of Almora, overwhelmed with love and admiration, seated him on a majestically decorated white horse and led him in a jubilant procession of thousands. Swamiji himself often spoke of the joyful times he spent in Almora, where he frequently rode horses. Thus, the depiction of Swamiji on horseback at the city’s entrance holds great significance. The memorial is being constructed near Lodhia, the very place where he was received with such honor.

Standing tall at 48 feet high and 60 feet wide, Vivekananda Dwar is a unique landmark in Uttarakhand. It also features depictions of various local deities from the Almora region. Constructed in traditional Kumaoni architecture, it embodies the spirit of Sarva Dharma Samanvaya, featuring statues from different religions alongside Swamiji’s. This remarkable landmark stands as a symbol of the deep love and reverence of the people of Almora for Swamiji, whom they considered their very own.


PHOTOS & VIDEOS
]]>Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:16:23 +0530<![CDATA[Spiritual Retreat - 28th to 31st May 2026]]>https://almora.rkmm.org/news/post/special-youth-programme-4th-march-20251Dear Devotees, We are delighted to announce that a  4-day Spiritual Retreat will be held from 28  - 31 May 2026  at Ramakrishna Kutir, Almo ]]>

Dear Devotees,


We are delighted to announce that a 4-day Spiritual Retreat will be held from 28 - 31 May 2026 at Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora.


Here's a summary of the Retreat:



SPEAKERTOPIC
 1

 Swami Raghavendrananda

Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Nagpur

 

Guided Meditation & Dhrama Prasanga based on lives of

Sri Sri Ramakrishna, Ma Sarada Devi & Swami Vivekananda

 2

Swami Sukhananda

Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Bhuj



Recital & Discourse on Ramcharitmanas and teachings of Thakur, Ma & Swamiji 


  • Both residential and non-residential participation options are available for devotees for the Spiritual Retreat (more details are given below).     However, both residential as well as non-residential participants would be provided all the meals (breakfast, lunch, tea & dinner) at the Ashrama only.
  • Accommodation within the Ashrama will follow dormitory rules with separate arrangements for male and female participants.
    However, there will be a provision to stay in nearby hotels or homestays as well.
  • Participants must adhere strictly to the day-wise program without deviation.
  • Silence is Golden. Participants are encouraged to minimize unnecessary talking & usage of mobile phones during the retreat.
  • Participation is strictly by advance registration only, following a first-come-first-serve policy due to limited accommodations and seats.
Fill up the Registration Form here

DETAILED RULES & GUIDELINES​

1. Dates & Arrival Information

  • Retreat Dates: 28th May to 31st May 2026 (4 days)
  • Arrival: 27th May 2026, 
    Departure: 1st June 2026 (morning after breakfast)
    (If anyone wants to stay beyond the retreat, they must mention the dates on the registration form.  We shall confirm based on availability.)
  • Participants must arrive at Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora, by 4 pm on 27th May.

2. Location & Travel Arrangements

Participants have to make their travel arrangements for Almora. 
Buses/ Taxis/ Shared Taxis are available from railway stations/ bus stations/ airport.


Nearest Access Points:

  • By Road: Haldwani (100 km), Bareilly (200 km), Dehradun (400 km), Delhi (400 km)
  • By Train: Nearest railway stations – Kathgodam (80 km), Haldwani (100 km), and Lal Kuan (105 km)
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar (121 km), followed by Bareilly (193 km)

​​3. Accommodation & Registration

  • Accommodation will be provided within the Ashrama strictly on a first-come-first-serve basis.
  • You can indicate your choice on the registration form.
  • Those staying outside may choose from nearby hotels and guest houses, a list of which is given here.
  • ***
  • Registration must be completed in advance by filling out the registration form along with payment confirmation.
  • Registration Fee: 
    • ₹6,000 for non-residential participants (contacts of some nearby hotels are provided below)
    • ₹8,000 for residential participants
  • ***
  • Meals shall be provided for both residential as well as non-residential participants within the above cost only.
  • Participants opting to stay outside the Ashrama will need to cover their hotel costs separately.
  • After registration, participants will be added to a WhatsApp group for coordination.

5. Daily Routine & Participation

  • All participants must attend morning meditation, chanting, and evening arati in the temple or Shivananda Hall, as applicable
  • Discourses are mandatory and will be conducted as per the schedule in morning and evening sessions.

6. Climate & Clothing Recommendations

  • Almora can be moderately cold in May. Participants should bring suitable warm clothing.
  • It is advisable to carry an umbrella or rain protection, as weather conditions may vary.

7. Cancellation & Adjustments

  • Registration fees are non-refundable.
  • Registration fees will be accepted as donations and receipts will be issued accordingly.

  • Participants must inform the Ashrama before the registration deadline if they are unable to attend. But we won't be able to refund the registration fees.

8. Contact:
  • For any further queries drop us an email at almora@rkmm.org
  • Or, you may contact Sri Aman Kumar (+91 70601 73528), Sri Debotosh Purkayastha (+91-9706088110) or Br. Raju (+91 8445008469)


Please note that telephonic discussions or WhatsApp messages will not be considered valid communication for the retreat. Only those who shall send the filled-up forms will be considered.

Fill up the Registration Form here
​​Here are the name and contact number of nearby hotels and guest houses which may be of help to you.


1. Hotel Himadri - 99179 55424              –  0.5 Km from the Ashrama

2. Prabhu Guest House – 8006388522 – 0.5 Km from the Ashrama

3. Nivedita Cottage - 97605 46898        – 0.7 Km from the Ashrama
4. Heritage Hotel – 70789 01577            –1 Km from the Ashrama
5. Hotel Milam Inn - 94120 42245          – 2Km from the Ashrama

6. Shikar Hotel - 94120 39696                 – 2Km from the Ashrama


DAILY TIMETABLE FOR SPIRITUAL RETREAT 

28th to 30th May, 2026


Time           Event

5:30 AM — Temple Opening


6:00 AM — Mangal Arati, Vedic Chanting- Bhajan & Meditation


7:00 AM — Breakfast


8:00 AM — Registration followed by Vedic Chanting & Opening Song


8:30 AM —   by Swami Raghavendranandaji 

                      (Gudided Meditation & Discorse)


10:00 AM — Tea Break


10:15 AM to 11:30 AM — Discorse by Swami Sukhanandaji


12:00 Noon — Lunch


3:00 PM to 4:30 PM — Afternoon Session by Raghavendranandaji


4:30 - 5:00 PM — Tea & Snacks


05:00 PM to 06:30 PM — by Sukhanandaji


07:00 PM -  Evening Aarati and Bhajans


9:00 PM — Dinner


31st May, 2026

08:00 am - Short visit to Turiyananda Taposthali and Vivekananda Smarak at Karbala


2:00 PM - Prize Distribution Ceremony of Vivekananda Inter School Competetion 2026 at

Hotel Milam Inn


]]>Fri, 07 Mar 2025 15:14:18 +0530