Restoration of Baranagar Math

[Guest guest]

Dear Friends

 

Here is a request from Swami Vamananandaji, President,

Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar, Kolkata (a branch of the

Ramakrishna Order).

 

Baranagar Math plays a crucial role in the formation of the

Ramakrishna Order. This is where the Order had started,

with 14 of the 16 direct disciples practicing severe

austerities and intense study & contemplation. The

Baranagar Math, which was a dilapidated building at that

time, was the focal point of the order between 1886 to 1892

(For a vivid description of the life & times of that time,

one may refer to the recently published book ‘The early

History of the Ramakrishna Movement’ authored by Swami

Prabhananda). All that now remains of the dilapidated house

where these disciples of Sri Ramakrishna lived are two

pillars. In the inexorable march of time the property

changed hands, the old monastery building crumbled to dust

and the whole place became a slum.

 

But the legacy of Baranagar Math cannot be forgotten.

Ramakrishna Math, Belur has taken it as its endeavour to

restore this monument for posterity. With this end in view,

the authorities of Ramakrishna Math started in May 2001 a

branch center in a small building in the area. Daily

worship, spiritual discources, non-formal school, coaching

classes for slum children, charitable homoeo dispensary,

general library, health care & regular financial aid to the

distressed are being conduced now at this new center.

(Please refer to the website www.rkmbaranagar.org for

details of activities).

 

The Ramakrishna Math has drafted a plan to restore the

original spiritual ambience of the first monastery at

Baranagar Math and thereby conduct various services for the

poor. The total cost of such an endeavour is estimated at

Rs 2.50 crores (Approximately USD 550,000), which includes

rehabilitation of displaced owners/tenants at the premises,

purchase the premises, construction of a memorial,

construction of Monks Quarters.

 

We appeal to all good-hearted people to contribute for this

noble cause. Donors may install memorial plaque to

perpetuate the memory of the nearer and dearer ones.

Cheques/Drafts may be drawn in favour of ‘Ramakrishna Math,

Baranagar’. Donations are exempt under Indian Income Tax

Act. Those who want to send donations thro’ wire transfer

from foreign countries may also do so (Details of the

beneficiary account will be provided by Swami

Vamananandaji). Swamiji can also be contacted at

info.

 

Would appreciate you help.

 

Best regards

Murali B

Bangalore

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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