The Village Development Centre of Sri Ramakrishna Math, Thanjavur, organised a two-day spiritual and self-development camp on 24 and 25 October 2026. Sevalaya’s founders, V Muralidharan and Bhuvaneswari Muralidharan, participated along with 47 Sevalaya staff members. The camp focused on personal growth, physical and mental well-being, and a spirit of service through spiritual sessions, yoga, meditation and cultural activities.
The programme began with a dip in the River Kaveri and the lighting of the traditional kuthuvilakku. Sevalaya staff members read excerpts from Swami Vivekananda’s works.
V Muralidharan, Founder and Managing Trustee of Sevalaya, spoke about the Legacy Leaders award he received in Mumbai on 23 October. He said he considered himself a follower of Bharathi, Gandhi and Vivekananda, and emphasised that their principles could guide people in facing life’s challenges. This was followed by a musical presentation by Lavanya, a devotee of Sri Ramakrishna Math.
A group discussion on rural development brought together Sevalaya’s heads of departments and staff members. Swami Vimurthananda, Head of Sri Ramakrishna Math, Thanjavur, addressed the gathering, describing Swami Vivekananda as a universal figure whose teachings transcended religious boundaries. He highlighted five essential management skills: managing people, money, material resources, moods and the mind. He also encouraged participants to view competition as opportunities for growth.
The afternoon featured seminars on four topics related to education and youth. Dr Manimaran, Tamil Pandit at the Saraswathi Mahal Library, Thanjavur, spoke on “Water Management in Ancient Tamil Society”. The evening programme included a yoga session led by Bhanu Niveditha, a volunteer of Sri Ramakrishna Math.
On the second day, Velaanmai Semmal Ko Sithar, a natural health practitioner, spoke on “We Are the Children of the Universe”, highlighting inner well-being, mindful eating, a balanced diet and the responsible use of natural resources. This was followed by devotional songs by Meenakshi Amma, a devotee of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
A seminar on youth power and development saw Sevalaya staff members share their views. Swami Vimurthananda emphasised the importance of self-confidence, earning the confidence of others and faith in God, linking these qualities to the acts of taking ownership of one’s work, helping others and prayer.
Sevarathinam Dr Murali delivered a motivational address, encouraging participants to overcome challenges and manage stress. Photographs of Swami Vivekananda were distributed to participants, and mementoes were presented to the special guests on behalf of Sevalaya.
