HYDERABAD: In an age where childhood is increasingly shaped by screens, algorithms and academic pressure, a summer camp in Hyderabad chose a different route, one built around meditation halls, yoga mats, Vedic chants and conversations on empathy, discipline and emotional balance.
The Vivekananda Institute of Human Excellence (VIHE), under the Ramakrishna Math, concluded its summer camp ‘Samskaar 2026’ on Sunday. Conducted for boys and girls studying in Classes IV to X, the camp blended yoga, music, meditation, bhajans and personality development activities with lessons on teamwork, self-discipline and value-based living.
At the valedictory ceremony, Hyderabad Police Commissioner V C Sajjanar said education must go beyond marks to nurture empathy, mental resilience and social responsibility among children. Expressing concern over rising smartphone addiction and emotional isolation among students, he said artificial intelligence could provide information but not empathy. “Use AI as a tool, not as the whole and soul of life,” he said.
Calling Ramakrishna Math a “spiritual powerhouse”, Sajjanar said the camp promoted discipline, teamwork and emotional balance. He also urged parents to encourage outdoor activities and avoid excessive academic pressure on children.
Swami Bodhamayananda, Adhyaksha of Ramakrishna Math, Hyderabad, stressed the need for value-based education, saying society required responsible nation-builders rather than merely degree-holders and job seekers.
“The camp was aimed at recycling, recharging and purifying the minds of students,” he said, adding that meditation, yoga, self-defence training, bhajans and personality development sessions were designed to strengthen character and emotional resilience.
According to organisers, the programme was conducted in multiple batches for school and junior college students, with hundreds participating in meditation, yoga, chanting, group discussions and personality development workshops. A special newsletter documenting the camp’s activities was also unveiled during the event.
Students and parents also shared positive feedback about the camp experience. Veda Ananya, a Class 4 student of Kendriya Vidyalaya, said, “The camp taught us discipline, determination, dedication, spiritual growth, selfless service and character building. I learnt the importance of courage, meditation, bhajans and helping the needy through activities like Seal Your Desire.” Several students said the camp helped them develop confidence, emotional balance, moral values and respect for nature.