On the vibrant morning of May 5th, 2024, the prayer hall of Vivekananda Kendra Kolkata Karyalaya in Bidhan Sarani, Kolkata echoed with youthful enthusiasm as VK Eknath Vibhag hosted a one-day Youth Convention. This gathering, meticulously organized by a dedicated team of Karyakartas led by Shri Joydeep Dasgupta, proved to be a transformative journey for all involved.
The day commenced with a solemn prayer, setting the tone for introspection and growth. Participants, numbering sixteen, were greeted with warm introductions and essential guidelines for the day’s proceedings. From the outset, the agenda was crafted to encompass various facets of holistic development, aligning with the ethos of Vivekananda Kendra.
The Convention unfolded with a series of engaging sessions designed to nurture the participants overall personality. Introductions to Vivekananda Kendra and its noble endeavors provided insights into service and community. Delving deeper, sessions on the significance of prayers by Su Kathakali Bhattacharya, a Jeevanbrati Karyakarta of Vivekananda Kendra followed by sessions on leadership skills through interactive games, and the nuances of personality development laid the foundation for introspection and growth.
Geet session by Moumita Bhattacharya infused the ambiance with melody and rhythm, elevating spirits and fostering camaraderie. Techniques for concentration were shared, empowering participants to harness their mental faculties effectively by Su Kathakali Bhattacharya. The narrative of the Rock Memorial Story by Smt Malavika Ganguly served as a beacon of inspiration, illustrating the essence of determination and collective effort in achieving monumental goals.
In a digital age, understanding the responsible use of internet and social media is imperative. Joydeep Dasgupta, shed light on this, emphasizing ethical conduct and mindful engagement online. Followed by a session on addressing fears and anxieties by Subrata Mondal, the session provided practical strategies for overcoming obstacles, fostering resilience and self-assurance among the youth.
Group discussions and presentations on learning outcomes facilitated collective learning and reflection, consolidating the day’s insights. The event culminated in a heartfelt vote of thanks by Shri Tarun Jana, acknowledging the contributions of all involved in making the convention a resounding success.
A highlight of the day was the visit to Swami Vivekananda’s ancestral house in Simla Street, a pilgrimage to the roots of inspiration. Here, amidst hallowed halls, the spirit of Swami Vivekananda reverberated, instilling a sense of purpose and reverence in all present.
Gracing the occasion were esteemed guests Shri Pravinji Dabholkar, All India Treasurer of Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, and VK Prashimbanga Prant Pramukh, Smt. Malavika Ganguly. Their presence added depth and resonance to the proceedings, underscoring the importance of youth empowerment and community engagement.
As the day drew to a close, echoes of enthusiasm lingered, and participants expressed their eagerness to partake in future endeavors organized by Vivekananda Kendra. In Kolkata’s bustling streets, amidst the ebb and flow of life, the Youth Convention stood as a beacon of hope and growth, a testament to the enduring legacy of Swami Vivekananda’s ideals.
