Global Presence
The Ramakrishna Mission, established by Swami Vivekananda in 1897, has extended its spiritual and humanitarian activities beyond India, establishing centers across the globe. These international branches serve as hubs for spiritual practice, cultural exchange, and social service, embodying the mission’s motto: “For one’s own salvation and for the welfare of the world.” Below is a list of select Ramakrishna Mission centers outside India, along with brief descriptions of their activities:
Bangladesh
- Dhaka: The Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission in Dhaka engage in spiritual teachings, educational initiatives, and various charitable activities, serving the local community through diverse programs.
- Chittagong: This center focuses on spiritual instruction and humanitarian services, including educational and medical assistance to the underprivileged.
United States
- New York: The Vedanta Society of New York, founded by Swami Vivekananda in 1894, offers lectures, classes, and publications on Vedanta philosophy, fostering spiritual growth among its members.
- San Francisco: Established in 1900, the Vedanta Society of Northern California provides spiritual instruction, meditation sessions, and operates a retreat center for intensive practice.
United Kingdom
- London: The Ramakrishna Vedanta Centre in London conducts regular lectures, classes, and retreats, promoting the study and practice of Vedanta and emphasizing interfaith understanding.
France
- Gretz: The Centre Védantique Ramakrishna, located in Gretz near Paris, serves as a spiritual retreat offering teachings on Vedanta, meditation sessions, and cultural programs to foster spiritual development.
Germany
- Mühlheim: The Vedanta Gesellschaft in Mühlheim provides spiritual teachings, meditation classes, and organizes seminars on Vedantic philosophy and its practical applications.
Japan
- Tokyo: The Vedanta Society of Japan offers lectures, meditation sessions, and cultural programs, aiming to bridge Eastern and Western spiritual traditions.
Australia
- Sydney: The Vedanta Centre of Sydney conducts regular classes, retreats, and spiritual counseling, serving as a focal point for the practice and study of Vedanta in Australia.
Canada
- Toronto: The Vedanta Society of Toronto offers spiritual discourses, meditation sessions, and cultural activities, fostering a community dedicated to spiritual growth and selfless service.
South Africa
- Durban: The Ramakrishna Centre of South Africa engages in spiritual teachings, educational programs, and various social service activities, addressing the needs of the local community.
Argentina
- Buenos Aires: The Ramakrishna Ashrama in Buenos Aires provides spiritual instruction, meditation sessions, and cultural programs, promoting the teachings of Vedanta in South America.
Brazil
- São Paulo: The Ramakrishna Vedanta Ashrama in São Paulo offers lectures, meditation classes, and engages in social service initiatives, disseminating Vedantic teachings in Brazil.
Sri Lanka
- Colombo: The Ramakrishna Mission in Colombo operates educational institutions, conducts spiritual classes, and engages in charitable activities, serving the local population through various initiatives.
These centers, among others worldwide, continue to uphold the ideals of the Ramakrishna Mission, blending spiritual practice with active service to humanity.