The centenary celebrations of Sri Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, one of the oldest branch centres of Ramakrishna Mission in South India, began here on Saturday.
The activities of the ashrama began on February 2, 1919 by celebrating Swami Vivekananda jayanti in which 5,000 people participated.
The foundation of the ashrama was laid on June 13, 1919 by Swami Nirmalanandaji after which Sri Ramakrishna Temple was dedicated on November 14, 1928. The ashrama spread the life and teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda through various activities such as puja and preaching.
The two-day celebration was inaugurated by Swami Gautamanandaji Maharaj, vice-president of Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math Headquarters, West Bengal, in the presence of Swami Yatatmananda, secretary of the ashrama.
A centenary souvenir and a book titled ‘Abhayam Alikkum Amudha Mozhigal’ based on the gospel of Sri Ramakrishna were released on the occasion.
Swami Kamalatmanandaji Maharaj, Adhyaksha, Sri Ramakrishna Math, Madurai, Swami Atmaghananandaji Maharaj, Adhyaksha, Sri Ramakrishna Math, Kancheepuram and Narai S. Nellaiappan of Vivekananda Thava Illam, Vanavasi, spoke on various topics.
A book authored by S. Nellaiappan was released.
On Sunday, special bhajans and arati will be held followed by a procession from the ashrama.
It will pass through Kumarasamypatti Main Road, Venkatesapuram and Rajaji Road before culminating at the ashrama.