Six rooms, granite walls: All about Vivekananda Memorial where PM Modi will meditate

Digital Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in Tamil Nadu's Kanniyakumari for a 45-hour meditation session at the renowned Vivekananda Rock Memorial has drawn attention to this sacred site, nestled amidst the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean. Scheduled from the evening of May 30 to the evening of June 1, PM Modi's meditation is set to take place at the Dhyan Mandapam, a spot revered for its connection to Swami Vivekananda, a spiritual luminary whom the Prime Minister deeply admires.

The Vivekananda Rock Memorial stands as a testament to the profound spiritual legacy of Swami Vivekananda, a revered figure in Indian spirituality and philosophy. Initiated in the 1960s by Eknath Ranade, a prominent social and spiritual leader, the memorial commemorates Swami Vivekananda's visit to the rock in December 1892. Legend has it that it was here that Vivekananda had a divine vision of 'Bharat Mata', inspiring his mission to propagate the message of Vedanta.

Constructed between 1964 and 1970, the Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a masterpiece of architectural fusion, blending various Indian styles that reflect the nation's rich cultural tapestry. Comprising two main sections, the memorial houses the Vivekananda Mandapam and the Shripada Mandapam.

The Shripada Mandapam pays homage to the Hindu goddess Kanyakumari, believed to have left her footprints on the rock, rendering it sacred. Enclosed within an outer platform, this section includes the Garbha Graham, Inner Prakaram, and Outer Prakaram, serving as a sanctum for worship.

On the other hand, the Vivekananda Mandapam features a Dhyana Mandapam, Mukha Mandapam, and Sabha Mandapam, showcasing an amalgamation of temple architecture styles from across India. Constructed using durable materials to withstand coastal conditions, the Dhyana Mandapam's tranquil interior, adorned with soft lighting and ample ventilation, provides an ideal setting for meditation.

Central to the Sabha Mandapam is the Pralima Mandapam, where a statue of Swami Vivekananda stands, positioned to overlook the Shripadam, symbolizing his visionary perspective. The assembly hall, encompassing a corridor and outer courtyard, serves as a space for reflection and congregation.

PM Modi's meditation at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial not only honors Swami Vivekananda's spiritual legacy but also underscores the significance of promoting meditation and introspection for individual and collective well-being. As the Prime Minister immerses himself in this spiritual practice, the memorial stands as a beacon of inspiration, inviting seekers of all backgrounds to connect with their inner selves amidst the serenity of nature's embrace.