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
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.
