Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Karnataka Prant organized the Northeast Calling Programme at the Satish Dhawan Auditorium, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangaluru, on 24th August 2025 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with the participation of 340 people. The program was aimed at celebrating the cultural richness of Bharat’s Northeast while highlighting the ongoing developmental initiatives in the region. The Northeast, comprising the eight culturally vibrant states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura, has been a field of dedicated work for Vivekananda Kendra since the 1970s.
Distinguished Guests & Speakers
The event was graced by eminent dignitaries including Shri Ashish Kumar Chauhan Ji, MD & CEO, National Stock Exchange (NSE); Dr. R. Balasubramaniam Ji, Member of the Human Resource – Capacity Building Commission, Government of India & Founder of Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement; Kum. Nivedita Bhide Didi, All-India Vice President, Vivekananda Rock Memorial & Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari; and Shri A. Muralidhar Ji, Prant Sanchalak, Karnataka Prant, Vivekananda Kendra.
Program Commencement
The program began with a welcome address by Shri Prasad Ji, Prant Pramukh of Karnataka Prant, followed by the traditional Deepa Prajwalan (lamp lighting ceremony). He also presented the ‘Kendra Parichaya,’ highlighting the various seva activities of Vivekananda Kendra in the Northeast and Karnataka. The cultural segment included a traditional Northeast dance presented by students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Kalluballu, and an Assamese song performed by the R.T. Nagar team, both of which reflected the vibrancy of the region.
Inspirational Addresses
In his keynote address, Chief Guest Shri Ashish Kumar Chauhan ji spoke about the natural beauty, cultural depth, and historical significance of the Northeast, referencing mentions in epics such as the Mahabharata. He particularly appreciated the entrepreneurial spirit of the women of the region, highlighting their active participation in the NSE as a living example of women empowerment.
Guest of Honour Dr. Balasubramaniam Ji emphasized the civilizational ethos of giving and compassion, underlining how Bharat’s growth must be rooted in social and human capital.
Mananeeya Nivedita Bhide Didi reflected on the historic neglect of the Northeast in mainstream discourse, urging for deeper engagement and appreciation of its culture. She highlighted the immense agricultural diversity of Bharat with over 2,500 varieties of rice and shared the research efforts of Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture (VKIC) in studying crops, culture, and community life in the region. She also stressed that community-based living and cultural values are essential for ensuring sustainable development.
Showcasing Culture and Creativity
The program further featured an exhibition by VKIC and Vivekananda Kendra Prakashan, which displayed books, cultural items, and traditional handicrafts such as shawls, bags, and gamchas made by the VKAJ Khatkhati branch, showcasing the artistic skills of the Northeast.
Conclusion
The event concluded with a group prayer followed by lunch and interactive sessions, leaving the participants inspired by the cultural richness and unity of Bharat.
