The Ramakrishna Math at Vyttila, Kochi, is a spiritual organisation which follows the philosophy of Vedanta. It is affiliated to the Ramakrishna Mission which was founded by Swami Vivekananda on May 1, 1897.
What makes it different is the subdued way in which they carry on with their work. Their motto is represented by the phrase, ‘Atmano mokshartham jagad hitaya cha,’ which literally means spiritual upliftment of the self along with benefit to the world. The institution is founded on the basis of the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, which says that all religions are just paths to the same goal. Thus, this organisation strives to preserve the spirit of all religions.
The Math at Vyttila was started in 1946, but was affiliated to the Headquarters of Ramakrishna Math in Belur only in 1999. Each math concentrates on what is most needed in their particular area. The ‘adhyaksha’ of the math at Vyttila, Swami Bhadreshananda, says that hunger is not the issue in Kerala. “The problem with Kerala is the erosion of values,” he says. Hence, the key activities of the Math are concentrated on instilling values, especially in youngsters.
They have meditation classes and spiritual talks on Sundays. Besides, the math also arranges programmes for students in conjunction with schools like Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Chinmaya Vidyalaya and Kendriya Vidyalayas. The math concentrates not only on the children, but also on the parents with their Happy Parenting programmes, to promote good and sensible parenting.
Other activities include free tuition classes for underprivileged children, running a homeo dispensary and ayurvedic medical camps on all third Saturdays. Education and medical care are also given importance. There are books on religion, spirituality, and personal development for sale. Swami Bhadreshananda is also a spirited environmentalist. He says, “Nature nurtures us. We are supposed to protect nature.” He thinks Kochi has many beautiful natural sites and waterfronts that are unvalued.
The math is not well known, as the only publicity is by word-of-mouth. They do not have advertisements or other publicity measures. In a time when spirituality is just another consumer item, this spiritual organisation stays decidedly out of the spiritual market.