Khordha (Report- Sanatan Mahakud) – The serene village of Tikatala in the Bolagad block recently witnessed a profound celebration of spirituality and service as the Sri Ramakrishna Sebashram marked its 47th annual festival. The event, held on the auspicious occasion of Rasa Purnima, was a vibrant gathering dedicated to spiritual discourse, devotional music, and meaningful charitable work. 
Sri Ramakrishna Sebashram Khordha 47th Festival: Spiritual Talks & Charity


The ceremony proceeded under the able chairmanship of Sri Bijay Kumar Mahapatra. The program successfully blended timeless spiritual teachings with immediate social outreach, reflecting the core principles of the Ramakrishna Mission.

Spiritual Guidance from the Chief Guest

In his address as the chief guest, Swami Maheshatmanandaji Maharaj, the Assistant Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission in Bhubaneswar, delivered a powerful message on the importance of prayer and devotion in daily life. He emphasized that chanting the name of God and clapping in devotional song (Kirtan) brings immense mental peace. He firmly stated that this spiritual practice not soothes the individual soul but also helps in establishing a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere within the household. 
Sri Ramakrishna Sebashram Khordha 47th Festival: Spiritual Talks & Charity


Insights on the Life of Sri Ramakrishna

The event’s main speaker, Professor Keshab Chandra Rautray, took the audience on an enlightening journey through the life of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. He vividly described the spiritual master’s life, starting from his extraordinary childhood and progressing through his intense years of spiritual practice (Sadhana). Professor Rautray’s narration provided a clear and inspiring account of how Sri Ramakrishna embodied divine principles.
The founder secretary of the Ashram, Swami Bhagavatanandaji Maharaj, elaborated on the deep significance of the Rasa Purnima festival. He explained the ultimate goal of human life in simple terms, echoing Sri Ramakrishna's own teaching that the sole purpose of existence is to realize God. 
Sri Ramakrishna Sebashram Khordha 47th Festival: Spiritual Talks & Charity


Honoring Legacy and Devotional Performances

The honored guest, Sri Brajakishore Mahapatra, spoke about the divine purpose behind the advent of Sri Ramakrishna, Holy Mother Sarada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda. He highlighted their enduring message of universal acceptance and service to humanity.
The program began on a sacred note with Brahmachari Ramesh reciting verses from the Vedas. Adding a layer of cultural and devotional richness, Bhagirathi Jena and other devotees from the Sri Ramakrishna Ashram in Dhamsara presented a series of soulful Bhajans (devotional songs).

Commitment to Social Upliftment

A significant highlight of the anniversary was the Ashram's strong focus on social service, translating spiritual ideals into concrete action. In a heartwarming gesture, the organization provided scholarships of one thousand rupees each to eight economically challenged but meritorious students to support their education.
Furthermore, demonstrating care for the community, one hundred underprivileged mothers received beautiful sarees. Swami Maheshatmanandaji Maharaj personally distributed the garments, blessing each recipient. 
Sri Ramakrishna Sebashram Khordha 47th Festival: Spiritual Talks & Charity


New Publications and Vote of Thanks

The event also featured the release of publications. The Ashram’s triennial report was unveiled, detailing its activities over the past three years. Additionally, a book of poems titled "Sri Ramakrishna Sebashram," composed by Jugal Kishore Rautray, was launched by the distinguished guests.
Sarveshwar Sahoo, the Assistant Secretary of the Ashram, warmly welcomed all the guests and introduced them to the audience. The ceremony concluded with a formal vote of thanks proposed by the senior member of the Ashram, Padmacharan Biswal.
The smooth execution of the entire 47th-anniversary festival was made possible by the dedicated efforts of its managing committee. Key members including Editor Golak Chandra Sahu, Manoj Kumar Guman Singh, Shyamakant Pattnaik, Dillip Kumar Panda, Subal Chual Singh, Ashok Kumar Das, Suresh Kumar Panda, Ashok Kumar Sahu, Babaji Behera, Narayan Sahu, Rabindra Kumar Jena, Santosh Kumar Mahapatra, Nirmal Pattnaik, and Shubhranshu Shekhar Sahu expertly managed the proceedings, ensuring the event was a resounding success that inspired all attendees.