Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 13 January 2025
The much-anticipated Vivekananda Mela was officially inaugurated on 12th of January 2025, at the Government Senior Secondary School playground in Shaheed Dweep, marking the start of a weeklong celebration filled with cultural activities, sports events, and a festive atmosphere.
The event was inaugurated by Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration, who cut the ceremonial ribbon in the presence of Ms. Jyoti Kumari, Secretary of Fisheries, IP&T, and Art & Culture, along with officers from the A&N Administration, local PRI members, residents, and visitors.
Speaking at the occasion, Chief Secretary Dr. Kumar expressed his appreciation for the Mela, highlighting its significance in honoring the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. He congratulated the organizing committee for putting together an event that not only brings the local community together but also offers a chance for tourists to experience the vibrant culture of the island.
Swami Vivekananda’s life is full of values and inspiration that can motivate anyone to live a meaningful life, said Dr. Kumar. He urged the younger generation to follow the path shown by Swamiji and focus on their goals, regardless of the distractions around them. He also shared a motivational story from the life of Swami Vivekananda, encouraging children to stay focused and determined.
The Chief Secretary went on to praise the colorful cultural programs presented by school children, particularly the lively dance performances by the tiny tots of GSSS Shaheed Dweep.
Earlier in the day, Dr. Kumar paid his respects to Swami Vivekananda by garlanding his portrait, setting the tone for the celebrations. He also visited various government stalls set up at the Mela, interacting with officials and learning about their activities.
In her welcome address, Ms. Pinkey Das, Pradhan of the Gram Panchayat, Neil Kendra, shared that the Vivekananda Mela has been a cherished tradition at Shaheed Dweep since 1993. She also announced that the Mela would run until January 18, featuring a variety of cultural performances, sports events, and other activities designed to entertain and engage both locals and visitors.
The opening night saw an enthusiastic audience enjoying the vibrant folk dances representing different states, as well as speeches and skits on the life of Swami Vivekananda, presented by local schoolchildren. The inaugural ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Champa Das, Pramukh of Panchayat Samiti, Prothrapur.
Following the inauguration, crowds flocked to the Mela stalls, where a range of food stalls served delicious local treats, and a variety of handicrafts and local merchandise were available for purchase. Several government departments also showcased their initiatives and accomplishments at the Mela, drawing significant interest from both islanders and tourists.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the series of colorful cultural performances, with children’s dances and skits adding to the energetic and festive spirit. Visitors also had the chance to participate in exciting sports activities, making the event an all-encompassing celebration for all ages.
The Vivekananda Mela promises to be a week of joy, learning, and cultural immersion, offering a memorable experience for anyone visiting Shaheed Dweep during this time.