- Written by Saubhik Roy, Fifth Semester, Media Technologies, 2023
In the heart of Kolkata, nestled amid the bustling streets and the vibrant culture of India, the Bharat Sevashram Sangha stands as a beacon of hope and service to humanity. Its roots trace back to a remarkable figure, Swami Pranavananda, a visionary who dedicated his life to the service of mankind. Born in the serene village of Bajitpur, Bengal, in 1896, Pranavananda exhibited an exceptional disposition from his early years. His unwavering commitment to justice and his unyielding pursuit of truth defined his character.
Pranavananda's mission was clear - to emancipate the Indian people, to serve them physically, mentally, morally, and spiritually. He envisioned an organization that would blend the eternal ideals of India with the selflessness of service and the discipline of renunciation. The name "Bharat Sevashram Sangha" encapsulated these ideals and signified an organized effort to unite the disintegrated masses and build a powerful nation.
His Holiness, Acharya Srimat Swami Pranavananda Ji Maharaj, was not just a yogi; he was an incarnation of Lord Shiva, a philosopher-thinker, and a reformer. At the tender age of 44, he left an indelible mark on India when he attained Maha Samadhi on January 8th, 1941. His legacy lives on through the Bharat Sevashram Sangha. Today, the Sangha, headquartered in Kolkata, boasts around fifty branches and associates throughout India and around the world. Its mission has evolved to encompass a broad spectrum of humanitarian efforts. In times of natural calamities, the Sangha is at the forefront of relief work. It runs schools, orphanages, student homes, and hospitals. Their commitment to serving the underprivileged knows no bounds.
The journey to establish an Ashram in Shillong, however, was not without its challenges. Initially, Swamis visiting the area would rely on local accommodations, making their mission of service more challenging. Still, the persistent efforts of devoted individuals finally led to the acquisition of a piece of land in 2002. The Ashram's construction began on October 14th, 2003, and it was inaugurated on August 29th, 2004, with the presence of 80 Swamis from different parts of the country and many influential figures. The Ashram's journey didn't end with its establishment. It reached out to the North Eastern Council (NEC) for funds to support various projects, and with the assistance of influential figures, they succeeded in getting the necessary funds.
To accommodate travelers, a guesthouse called "Jaat Nivas" was built, offering ten rooms at a nominal cost. However, the primary function of the Ashram remains its medical clinic, providing affordable healthcare without compromising on quality. Those who cannot afford the services are offered concessions or even treated for free.
The primary function of the Aashram is its medical clinic, offering services at a nominal cost, ensuring quality care for those in need.
This financial support paved the way for the establishment of a medical clinic in 2008.
Over the years, this clinic expanded its services to include physiotherapy, X-rays, and a pathology lab, ensuring affordable healthcare for the local community.
Their goal is not just to serve but to sustain these vital services, even if it means collecting minimal fees. During the 125th birth anniversary of Swami Pranavananda, the Ashram upgraded its medical equipment, including the X-ray machine and the addition of an Ultra Sonography Machine (USG). They also began telepathy medicine services.
While they continue to expand and upgrade, the Ashram maintains its commitment to providing affordable healthcare and relief work to those in need.
One of the key figures in this narrative is Swami Purnabratananda, who assumed the role of secretary in 2018. Under his leadership, the Aashram engaged in extensive relief work during events like the Assam floods and the Nepal earthquake. The Sangha is known for its non-discriminatory approach, extending help to people irrespective of their religion. .
In addition to medical services, the Aashram supports underprivileged students, offering financial assistance to continue their education. They aim to empower around 20 to 25 students annually. This commitment to education is part of the Sangha's broader mission to uplift and transform lives.
Over the years, the Aashram has embraced technological advancements, upgrading its diagnostic equipment and services. The community's dedication to Swami Pranavananda's legacy is evident in their constant efforts to improve and expand.
Every Saturday morning, the Aashram nestles amidst serene surroundings comes alive with the laughter and energy of eager children. Led by seasoned yogis, the children's yoga classes are more than just a series of postures and stretches; they were a voyage into self-discovery.
The instructors, with their calm demeanor and flowing robes, guided the young yogis through a magical world where breath meets movement, and tranquility danced with vitality.
Everyday in the premises of the Aashram under the Skill Development Mission women from all spheres of life would come and practice stitching. From intricate embroidery to the steady hum of sewing machines fashioning garments, the room is alive with the spirit of possibility.
As the women crafts, they also wove a tapestry of friendship, sharing stories of triumphs and challenges, finding solace in the common thread that connects them all.
And so, every day in the ashram, the stitching room became a sacred corner where the rhythmic symphony of needles stitched together not just fabrics but the dreams, stories, and bonds of a community of women, creating a masterpiece of resilience, creativity, and shared aspirations
While the Aashram lacks a library, it possesses a unique collection of religious books.
Apart from the daily Aarati. A special Aarati is done by the Swamiji of the Aashram, on the night of "Purnima" which means "Full Moon night" that symbolises a very deep spiritual meaning.
The very essence of the word "arati" unfolded its meaning in this sacred space — "Aa," denoting the specific, and "rati," . The Bharat Sevashram Sangha is not just a place of service; it's a place of devotion. Special Sandha Aarati is performed here, a unique and meaningful ritual that offers love to the divine. Each element of the ceremony, from the conchshell to the thrushul (swords), carries a deep significance, symbolizing unity, strength, and the offerings of different elements to God.
The Swamiji, a venerable figure draped in saffron robes, would, on certain days, orchestrate this extraordinary ceremony. representing love. It is through this ritual that an unparalleled affection is extended to the divine.This distinguished Aarati holds a singular place in the traditions of Bharat Sevashram. No other ashram could boast of a ceremony adorned with an array of symbolic weapons, each laden with profound significance. For here, every element has a purpose, a deeper connection to the divine.
"Ponchotroto," a term resonating with sacrifice, embodied the acknowledgment that the devotees couldn't offer their physical selves to God. Instead, they symbolized this devotion through various instruments, each carrying its own unique message.
"Duna," the vessel of fragrance, wafted through the air, symbolizing the essence of smell. "Ponchopradip," the sacred fire, flickered with the intensity of devotion, embodying the element of fire. The conch shell, filled with water, echoed the importance of this life-sustaining element. The "Pakha", a gentle yet forceful breeze, symbolized the element of air, while the rhythmic beats of the "Dhakhs "creates a symphony that resonated through the ashram. These are the different elements which the "Sandha Aarati" so unique
And so, within the hallowed grounds of Bharat Sevashram, the Sandha Aarati unfolds, a narrative woven with love, symbolism, and devotion. It was a spectacle that not only touches the heavens but etched itself into the hearts of those who bore witness, a testament to the rich tapestry of faith that adorned this spiritual haven.
This are the different kinds of activities that place within the Aashram with 100's of people visiting it on a daily basis.
Looking ahead, the Ashram envisions an extension of its medical services, an expansion of its guesthouse, and a spiritual trip to Nartiang to promote the rich cultural heritage and history of the region. In recognition of its services, the Indian government has granted it various exemptions, and the United Nations has accredited the Sangha with ECOSOC Status since 2008. The Bharat Sevashram Sangha is more than just an organization; it's a symbol of unwavering commitment to humanity, a testament to the enduring legacy of Swami Pranavananda, and a beacon of hope for those in need. It stands as a reminder that service to others is service to the divine. The Bharat Sevashram Sangha had become a beacon of hope, a sanctuary for those in need. It stood as a living legacy, a continuation of Swami Pranavananda's teachings, echoing through the halls and resonating in the hearts of those who sought refuge within its embrace.
As the ashram embarked on its journey of expansion, the echoes of its past accomplishments rang loud. Each brick, every prayer, and every act of kindness had woven a tapestry of compassion that stretched beyond the ashram's physical boundaries. The upcoming spiritual trip to Nartiang promises to unveil the cultural tapestry of the region, inviting others to partake in the richness of tradition and history.
The story of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha is more than a narrative; it is a living, breathing testament to the profound impact one organization could have on the world. It stood as a reminder that service to others was, indeed, service to the divine—a timeless truth that continues to guide the Sangha's path as it reached out to touch the lives of those in need.
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