JAIRAMPUR/JORAM, Sep 11: Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalayas (VKVs) at Jairampur in Changlang district and Joram in Keyi Panyor district celebrated Universal Brotherhood Day on Friday, commemorating the 133rd anniversary of Swami Vivekananda’s historic address at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago on September 11, 1893.
At VKV Jairampur, the celebration was organised along with Parents’ Day, bringing students, teachers and parents together for an exchange of ideas and a cultural programme centred on Swami Vivekananda’s message of universal harmony.
Lt Col Amit Mane, Commandant, 21 Assam Rifles, attended the programme as chief guest, while ADC Jairampur Lekhandu Thungan was the guest of honour. Principal T Sritharan, VKV Arunachal Pradesh Territory Education Officer P Ajaya Kumar, government officials, alumni, parents, teachers and students were also present.
The programme began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and an invocation, followed by a welcome address and felicitation of the guests. Teacher Sajith K spoke on the significance of Universal Brotherhood Day, recalling Swami Vivekananda’s historic Chicago address and his message of religious harmony, service to humanity and character-building.
Class XI student Ojha Tayeng delivered a citation address on the significance of the Chicago speech.
Addressing the gathering, Thungan stressed the importance of character-building and highlighted the harmonious environment in VKVs, where students from different religious backgrounds study together. He also noted the contribution of the institution’s alumni serving in various positions of responsibility across Arunachal Pradesh.
Lt Col Mane described Swami Vivekananda’s Chicago address as a meeting point of East and West and said its message continues to remain relevant. He also appreciated VKV Jairampur’s emphasis on holistic development and value-based education.
The cultural programme featured Swamiji Vandana, Vivek Vani recitations, a patriotic song with tableau, Dandiya, classical dance, Lezim display, a drama on Swami Vivekananda’s life, Vande Mataram and traditional dances. The programme concluded with the collective recitation of the Shanti Mantra.
Meanwhile, VKV Joram in Keyi Panyor district also observed Universal Brotherhood Day with a colourful programme highlighting peace, unity, harmony and mutual respect.
Keyi Panyor Superintendent of Police Dr Akansha attended the programme as chief guest, while Block Education Officer (Academic) Chukhu Paje was the guest of honour. Parents and guardians also participated in the celebration.
Students presented cultural performances showcasing their talents and reflecting themes of cultural heritage, discipline, unity and social harmony.
The programme emphasised peaceful coexistence beyond differences of caste, creed, religion and social background and encouraged students to uphold the values of universal brotherhood, mutual respect and togetherness.
The celebrations at both institutions sought to inspire students to become responsible citizens committed to character-building, service, social harmony and the ideals espoused by Swami Vivekananda.