Himanta Biswa Sarma Attends Silchar Ramakrishna Temple Consecration, Announces Rs. 5 Cr for Hospital

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma attended Tuesday’s grand consecration ceremony of the newly built Universal Temple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsadeva at Ramakrishna Mission, Silchar. The event was graced by the President of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Belur Math, Gautamananda Ji Maharaj, Vice President Girishananda Ji Maharaj, and Satyaranjan Bhattacharjee, President of Ramakrishna Mission Sevasram Silchar Centenary Committee. Secretary of Ramakrishna Mission Silchar, Swami Ganadhishananda Ji Maharaj, played a pivotal role in the construction of the temple, and Chief Minister Sarma attended as the chief guest.

The newly constructed temple is a fusion of spiritual and architectural excellence, designed by engineer Saugata Shome, mentioned Swami Ganadhishananda Ji Maharaj. The idol of Sri Ramakrishna was crafted under the supervision of sculptor Amal Paul. Mrinal Samajpati served as the head mason worker. The temple features three doors symbolically named, Garud Dwar (East), Mahabir Dwar (West) and Ganesh Dwar (North)

Additionally, elements such as the Navagraha and other symbols from Hindu scriptures have been installed to enrich the spiritual ambience of the temple. Aminul Haque, the first donor, contributed ₹1 lakh towards the temple’s construction, mentioned Maharaj Ganadhishananda.

Speaking at the event, Girishananda Ji Maharaj, Vice President of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, expressed his deep reverence for Maharaj Ganadhishananda, acknowledging his tireless efforts in making the temple a reality.

“It is through his dedication and divine grace that this temple stands today. Sri Ramakrishna’s message of Bhakti and religious harmony transcends all barriers, uniting people irrespective of religion, caste, or creed. The architecture, lighting, and cultural blend in this temple reflect the grandeur that should spread to this civilization. The light and dhwani from this temple should spread across India,” he remarked.

Expressing gratitude for being part of the historic occasion, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “Even at the age of 96, Gautamananda Ji Maharaj has travelled to Silchar to grace us all, which is truly inspiring. I offer my obeisance to Sri Ramakrishna Deva, Sarada Maa, and Swami Vivekananda.”

Highlighting Sri Ramakrishna’s philosophy, CM Sarma emphasized, “Lord Ramakrishna simplified religion, making it accessible to all. He taught us that ‘Only God is true, and everything else is an illusion.’ He demonstrated that the ultimate goal of human life is to attain God. His message of ‘Joto mat, toto path’ (as many paths as there are beliefs) reflects religious harmony paved the way for world peace.”

CM Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the remarkable history of the Ramakrishna Mission in Silchar, tracing its origins to the 1915 Cachar floods when monks from Belur Math provided relief. Their selfless service led to the formation of the Ramakrishna Seva Samitee, which evolved into Ramakrishna Sevasram in 1927 and officially affiliated with Belur Math in 1939. Over the years, the Mission expanded its work in rural welfare schemes, free coaching centres and mobile medical schemes bringing relief to countless individuals in remote areas and disaster relief, standing as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment and selfless service.

CM Sarma also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Ramakrishna Mission towards human welfare. “The temple is not just a place of worship; it stands as a symbol of service to mankind, following the motto of ‘Shiva Gyan-e Jibo Sewa.’ The Ramakrishna Mission has played a pivotal role in education, healthcare, rural development, women’s empowerment, and disaster relief. Their work during the Silchar floods two years ago was commendable, which I’ve witnessed myself.”

In recognition of the Mission’s efforts, CM Sarma announced a Rs. 5 crore grant for the upcoming hospital to be opened by the Ramakrishna Mission and assured that the Assam government would bear the remaining Rs. 4 crore cost of the temple’s construction.

As part of the centenary celebrations of Ramakrishna Mission Silchar, a special 100-year magazine was released, and a special cover by the Department of Posts was unveiled. The release was officiated by Gautamananda Ji Maharaj, Girishananda Ji Maharaj, and Satyaranjan Bhattacharjee, marking a historic moment for the institution.

Since its establishment in 1915, Ramakrishna Mission Silchar has remained a beacon of spiritual enlightenment and humanitarian service. With its affiliation with Belur Math in 1939, it has grown into a cornerstone of religious and social upliftment in the region.

The newly inaugurated Universal Temple now stands as a testament to Sri Ramakrishna’s universal teachings, furthering his mission of love, service, and harmony.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by ministers Jayanta Mallabauah, Kaushik Rai and Krishnendu Paul along with MP Parimal Suklabaidya and MLAs from across the valley.