Educational Visit to Ramkrishna Mission Swami Vivekananda Ancestral Home and Cultural Centre
On January 7, 2025, Semester I and Semester III students of the Department of Education, Loreto College, Kolkata, along with all the faculty members of the department, embarked on an enriching educational tour to the Ramkrishna Mission Swami Vivekananda Ancestral Home and Cultural Centre. This cultural and educational trip was an attempt to immerse the students in the life, teachings, and legacy of one of India’s greatest spiritual leaders and educators—Swami Vivekananda.
The visit began with an exploration of the ground floor of the cultural centre. The students were introduced to several significant spaces linked to Swami Vivekananda's family. They visited the Vireshwar Shiva Temple and the rooms of Swamiji's sister and mother. These rooms depicted the close-knit family environment in which Swamiji was nurtured and highlighted the values of spirituality, discipline, and service that were instilled in him from a young age.
The tour continued to the first floor, where students experienced the exhibit "Saptarshi Mandal Vision' that was brought to life through a combination of light and sound. This exhibit explored the spiritual teachings and visions that Swamiji had on his journey to becoming a spiritual luminary. The family tree provided an insight into his ancestry, while the room of Swamiji's grandmother and his birthplace further personalised the experience. The photo gallery and art gallery showcased beautiful visual representations of Swamiji's life, his travels, and his impact on Indian and global spirituality.
In the inner courtyard, the students witnessed various relief sculptures and were able to explore the meditation room, exercise room, and music room-all of which spoke to the holistic approach to life that Swamiji advocated. The room of Swamiji's younger brother and the Sri Sri Jagaddhatri Mandap were also part of the courtyard, offering a deeper view into the familial and spiritual connections that influenced Swamiji's work.
The visit was not only an exploration of Swami Vivekananda's early life and the history of his family but also an opportunity to experience the powerful impact of his philosophy. The museum's exhibits were carefully curated, and through movies, art, music, and storytelling, the students were able to see and feel the transformative journey of Swamiji.
The stories of Swami Vivekananda's life-his struggles, victories, and the influence of his teachings-left a lasting impression on the students. They were deeply moved by the reconstruction and restoration of the venue, which stands as a testament to the efforts to preserve and share the teachings and spirit of Swamiji. The details about the renovation process, undertaken with great care and devotion, particularly resonated with the students, reinforcing the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
The educational visit achieved several positive outcomes. The students gained valuable insights into the life of Swami Vivekananda and his philosophies, which emphasised spirituality, self-reliance, and social responsibility. They were inspired by his journey from a young boy in Kolkata to a revered global spiritual leader. The visit invoked a sense of spirituality and deep reflection. The students were moved by the stories of Swami Vivekananda’s struggles and triumphs, and many expressed feeling more connected to his teachings. The students developed a deeper appreciation for preserving and respecting cultural and historical sites. The restoration efforts at the ancestral home underscored the importance of maintaining such significant places for future generations. The visit brought the students and faculty closer together, as it was a shared experience that allowed for collective reflection and discussion. The warm camaraderie and shared respect for the space created a bond between everyone in the department.
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