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.
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.
