The Honourable Prime Minister of Bharat, Shri Narendra Modi Ji, undertook a profound 45-hour spiritual sadhana at the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial, from the evening of May 30, 2024, to the afternoon of June 1, 2024.
Shreepada Parai - The Sacred Rock:
The rock, known as ‘Shreepada Parai,’ where the Vivekananda Rock Memorial stands, is imbued with deep spiritual and historical significance. This is the same rock where Mother Kanyakumari Devi did her penance standing on one foot. After wandering across the length and breadth of Bharat, Swami Vivekananda reached Kanyakumari and meditated on this same rock on December 25, 26, and 27, 1892. His meditation became a landmark as it was here that he decided to go to the West to represent Hindu Dharma and the culture of Bharat. Later, under the visionary leadership of Mananeeya Sri Eknathji Ranade, this rock was transformed into the ‘Shila Smarak,’ bringing Swami Vivekananda's inspirational thoughts to life. He then founded Vivekananda Kendra, a spiritually oriented service mission.
A Historic Bond between Modi Ji and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial:
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji has a longstanding and profound connection with the Vivekananda Rock Memorial since its inception, which he himself reminisces: “Kanniyakumari has always been very close to my heart. The Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanniyakumari was built under the leadership of Shri Eknath Ranade ji. I had the opportunity to travel extensively with Eknath ji. During the construction of this memorial, I had the opportunity to spend some time in Kanniyakumari as well.” [source] In continuation of this cherished connection, the Prime Minister chose to engage in a two-day spiritual sadhana at the Dhyana Mandapam in Vivekananda Rock Memorial, amid parliamentary elections, to draw inspiration and divine energy.
The Prime Minister at Vivekananda Rock Memorial:
After having darshan at Sri Bhagavathy Amman Temple, the Prime Minister reached Vivekananda Rock Memorial on the evening of May 30, where he was warmly received by the All-India Vice President of VRM & VK, Mananeeya Shri Hanumantha Rao Ji, and the All-India Joint General Secretary, Mananeeya Shri Kishor Tokekar Ji.
During his stay, he offered prayers at Sri Pada Mandapam, meditated in the Dhyana Mandapam, offered floral tributes to Swami Vivekananda's statue at Sabha Mandapam, and performed the Surya Arghya ritual. Concluding his 45-hour spiritual sadhana on the afternoon of June 1, the Prime Minister graciously took photographs with the officers and staff at Vivekananda Rock Memorial. [Watch Video]
Following his meditation, Prime Minister Modi Ji penned a heartfelt message in the visitors’ book: “…My meditation at this ‘Shila Smarak’ is one of the unforgettable moments of my life. Sitting at the feet of ‘Ma Bharati’, I once again reaffirm my resolve that every moment of my life and every particle of my body will always be dedicated to the service of the nation. With wishes for the progress of the nation and the welfare of its citizens, I offer my utmost reverence to ‘Ma Bharati’.”
Honouring the Prime Minister - Mementos from Vivekananda Kendra:
On the same day, All-India Adhikaris from Vivekananda Rock Memorial & Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari presented mementos to the Honourable PM at the Government Guest House in Kanyakumari. From Vivekananda Kendra, the President Mananeeya Shri A. Balakrishnan Ji, the Vice-President Mananeeya Shri M. Hanumantha Rao Ji, Joint General Secretary Mananeeya Shri Kishor Tokekar Ji, and Senior Jeevan-vratti Karyakartha Sri H. Angiras Ji were present during the event.
The Honourable Prime Minister's visit and spiritual sadhana at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial served as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of Swami Vivekananda's vision for a resurgent Bharat. His engagement with the spiritual and cultural heritage of Bharat through this sadhana will be remembered as a landmark event, inspiring countless individuals to strive for a higher purpose and contribute selflessly to the nation’s progress.
