genesis - the beginning and a brief history
In 1982, a significant gathering took place where more than eight hundred youth representatives converged to explore the trends and teachings associated with Sri Ramakrishna. This gathering was part of the Eastern Region Youth Convention, which was held at the Ramakrishna Mission Saradapitha, Belur Math.
During the five-day convention, various activities were conducted, including readings, discourses, and speeches that focused on the life and teachings of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda. Among the participants was a doctor from North Calcutta who actively engaged in these discussions and events.
The convention had a profound impact on the attendees, and it concluded with a shared sense of strong determination among the participants. This determination was likely centered around the principles and teachings of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda, suggesting a commitment to incorporating these teachings into their lives and potentially spreading them further in their communities.
The determination that emerged from the Eastern Region Youth Convention in 1982 was a resolute commitment to a specific course of action: "To work, work, and work alone!" This determination was rooted in the teachings and ideals of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda, which emphasized the concept of "service to man as worship to God."
Mission
Vivekananda Swasthya Seva Sangha is committed to healthcare and socio-economic developmental activities in rural West Bengal. This indicates that they focus on improving both the physical health and socio-economic conditions of the rural population.
Collaboration
The organization brings together doctors and educated youth from urban areas. This collaborative effort between medical professionals and educated volunteers can be highly effective in addressing healthcare and developmental needs.
Geographic Focus
Vivekananda Swasthya Seva Sangha operates in rural West Bengal, which suggests that they are primarily dedicated to serving the needs of this specific region.
Inspiration
The organization's ideals are based on the teachings and principles of Swami Vivekananda. The quote "Service to Man is service to God" reflects the core philosophy that underlies their work. Swami Vivekananda was a prominent Indian spiritual leader and philosopher known for his emphasis on service to humanity.
Areas of Focus
The organization appears to have a multi-pronged approach, focusing on healthcare and socio-economic development. This might include activities such as providing medical care, healthcare awareness campaigns, education and skill-building programs, and initiatives aimed at improving the overall living conditions of rural communities.
The formation of "VIVEKANANDA SWASTHYA SEVA SANGHA" during a General Meeting in 1984 at the Ramakrishna Mission Saradapitha Belur Math, under the guidance of Swami Smarananandaji Maharaj. The mission and motto, "Service to man as worship to God," reflect the spirit of selfless service and devotion to humanity, which aligns with the teachings of Swami Vivekananda.
During this meeting, the Rules and Regulations of the organization's Constitution were adopted, laying the foundation for its governance and operations. Additionally, the first Executive Committee was formed to oversee the activities and initiatives of the Sangha.
Such organizations dedicated to service and inspired by the ideals of great spiritual leaders like Swami Vivekananda play a vital role in making positive contributions to society and uplifting the lives of individuals through selfless service and humanitarian efforts.
The news of this meeting somehow reached the then President of the Ramakrishna Order, Srimat Swami Vireswaranandaji Maharaj, at Belur Math who very kindly and generously called for and met in a discussion with the President and Secretary of the newly formed Committee of the Vivekananda Swasthya Seva Sangha, welcomed the formation of the Sangha and its proposed activities - did much more else for the Vivekananda Swasthya Seva Sangha - unknown to us! And the work moved on and on. . .
Start of the Mission
The service or mission began with limited resources but a strong determination to help others. It was initiated on the 17th of June, 1983.
Initial Focus
Initially, the mission targeted a cluster of villages, including Maharampur, Siptai, and Khanpur. The central location for this mission was Gurap.
Sunday Service
The mission involved providing assistance to the sick, distressed, and needy individuals in these remote villages. This assistance included free medical care provided by doctors and volunteers.
Expansion of Services
As time passed, the mission expanded its services, attracting more doctors and young individuals who were willing to volunteer their time and expertise for this noble cause.
Community Support
The second aspect of the mission was to encourage and enlist the support of willing individuals in the community, fostering a spirit of selfless service and cooperation among them.
Going to the villages
The second Centre started at Gangadharpur with yet other cluster of villages near Domjur in the District of Howrah (West Bengal)in February, 1984, and in March, 1985, a Centre in the village of Kalabaru near Canning in the District of South 24-Parganas (West Bengal) with a cluster of villages around it was started.
The first meeting at Saradapitha
The news of this selfless devotion spread far and at the appropriate time and place, came forward the chief architect of this Sangha - Srimat Swami Smarananandaji Maharaj of the Ramakrishna Order. It was owing to his personal effort and guidance a meeting was convened at the Ramakrishna Mission Saradapitha, Belur Math on the 15th August, 1984. There, a good number of doctors, both male and female, and young men attended to take the oath to spread the motto of selfless services among doctors and extend its activities far and wide, more and more and enlist more doctors for this devoted work.
Most Revered Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj
It was decided further to associate and seek advice and help from experienced and senior doctors. Their valuable advice and co-operation would be of great help to farther the activities of the Sangha. Many reputed and experienced doctors are now already engaged with us.