Vivekananda Kendra Nagdandi-Kashmir: A mission and vision in action

Leh, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: FRAGRANCE OF IDEAS

Vivekananda Kendra, Nagdandi is strategically located 2 kilometers away from the renowned Achabal garden in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. This site is approximately 70 kilometers from Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Established as an Ashram in 1941 by the saint Swami Ashokananda, the location has a rich history intertwined with the spiritual and cultural ethos of the region. Swami Ashokananda, a devoted follower of the revered Ramakrishna Paramhansa of Bengal, along with his disciples, later founded an institution known as the Shree Ramkrishna Mahasammelan Samiti, thereby dedicating the Ashram to this new entity.

Swami Ashokananda’s journey to Kashmir began in 1932, when he chose the Kathleshwar Mandir in the Tankipora area of Srinagar, situated on the banks of the river Vitasta (also known as the Jhelum), as his initial residence. During his stay at the Kathleshwar temple, he gained a substantial following, attracting numerous devotees and disciples. Among these were prominent families from Srinagar, including the Ogras, Katjoos, Dhars, and Tarozdars, who became ardent supporters of his mission.

Recognizing the need for expansion of the Ashram, Swami Ashokananda expressed his vision to his followers. In response, several individuals from Achabal, Anantnag, and Srinagar contributed land for the Ashram's growth. Notably, the Katjoo family donated land in the Chatragul area of Kangan (Ganderbal) to support this initiative. The Ashram eventually acquired a substantial area of approximately 100 Kanals (around 12 hectares), which was systematically demarcated and designated for the Shree Ramkrishna Mahasammelan Samiti, transitioning from the original Nagdandi Ashram.

Eknath Ranade, a notable figure and former Sarkarivah of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh , was later relieved of his responsibilities to concentrate on the mission of the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. In 1970, Swami Ashokananda executed a 'Will' that granted absolute management rights of the Ashram to the Ramakrishna Ashram in Belur Math, West Bengal. Alternatively, the management could be handed over to Eknath Ranade. Following Swami Ashokananda’s passing in 1971, his devotees constructed a 'samadhi' for him within the Ashram’s premises, marking a significant moment in the Ashram’s history.

The author recalls a personal experience from July 1974 when Eknath Ranade, during his tour in Kashmir, took him from Srinagar to Nagdandi. At that time, the author was a college student and an emerging activist. The visit left a lasting impression on him, as he was captivated by the Ashram's serene location and the ongoing initiatives under Ranade's guidance. It was also during this visit that he first met Adv. P.N. Bhat at the Ashram, further enriching his understanding of the institution's impact.

However, the Ashram faced significant challenges during the tumultuous period of 1989-90, marked by the forced mass exodus of the Kashmiri Hindu community due to rising terrorism and ethnic cleansing in the region. The Ashram, which had been a sanctuary for many, found itself nearly abandoned as its caretakers were forced to flee. Despite this adversity, the Vivekananda Kendra-inspired management remained vigilant. They collaborated closely with local authorities and security forces to safeguard the Ashram from potential violence and destruction. The Kendra had been deploying full-time volunteers to the Ashram since the 1970s, a practice that continued even during the most challenging years from 1990 to 2010. Key figures during this period included Datta Ram, Kalyan, and Vivek, who played crucial roles in maintaining the Ashram's operations.

In 2010, the Vivekananda Kendra revised its management strategy by appointing an Administrative Committee, with a chairman selected from the local Kashmiri population. This shift aimed to enhance local involvement and ensure that the Ashram remained relevant to the community it served. The Ashram has since undergone significant renovations and expansions, including the construction of a new Shree Ramakrishna temple covering 1400 square feet, replacing the old and damaged structure. Additionally, the 'Sanatan Samiksha Bhawan Hut,' a multi-purpose facility of around 900 square feet, has been inaugurated for participants, enhancing the Ashram's capacity to host various activities.

Furthermore, the 'Eknath Bhawan,' providing 24-bedded accommodation with essential amenities, has been completed following extensive renovations of an old, abandoned building that previously housed agricultural debris and other materials. The Ashram now offers accommodation for up to 100 yatries (pilgrims), significantly improving its ability to serve visitors. The Swami Ashokananda Bhawan has also received a much-needed facelift, with the installation of a Vivekananda Memorial and the development of surrounding lawns, which serve as a source of inspiration for all who visit, reinforcing the mission of 'man-making and nation-building.'

The Indian government has recognized the significant contributions made by the Kendra at Nagdandi, awarding the Padma Shri to Brij Lal Bhat, the Chairman (Prakalp-Pramukh) of the Administrative Committee of the SRKS-VK, Nagdandi, for the year 2026. This honor reflects the dedication and effort invested in revitalizing the Ashram and its mission. The recognition has been warmly welcomed by the community, reaffirming that the Nagdandi Ashram has truly evolved into a dynamic mission and vision in action, serving as a guiding light for those seeking inspiration, purpose, and a sense of community.

In summary, Vivekananda Kendra, Nagdandi stands as a testament to resilience, community spirit, and spiritual dedication. Its journey from a humble Ashram to a significant institution reflects the broader socio-political changes in Jammu and Kashmir, offering insights into the region's complex history while serving as a beacon of hope for many. The ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the teachings of Swami Vivekananda continue to resonate deeply within the local community and beyond, ensuring that the Ashram remains a vital part of the cultural and spiritual landscape of Kashmir.

(The author is a senior BJP & KP leader, Human Rights Defender and a columnist.)