CHENNAI: Keeping alive the legacy of Swami Chinmayananda’s service to mankind, Chinmaya Mission, Chennai, has established an informative archive comprising an audio-visual exhibit and a rare collection of images on the life and works of Swami Chinmayananda.
The project, Call of the Rishi is an initiative by his devotees to express their gratitude towards their guru. It was inaugurated by Padma Shri awardee and city-based architect CN Raghavendran on Sunday.
The project traces the journey of the master from his childhood to his transformation as a world renowned spiritual leader, with special emphasis on his interaction with Chennai.
Swami Chinmayananda is one of 20th century’s well-known and revered proponents of Vedanta, which is considered the foundation of Hindu religion and culture. Besides creating an organisation committed to Vedanta, he also built many educational institutions. He has delivered about 15,000 discourses on Vedanta and Bhagwad Gita.
The archive is not only informative; it is also an aesthetic experience, as special attempts have been made to steer the devotee through Chinmayananda’s life.
The centre is artistically crafted in wood, and includes a vivid photo gallery showcasing his life and works.
Among the artefacts, one of the unique exhibits on display is the 3D hologram of the swami’s portrait, which is handcrafted by artisans from Bali, Indonesia.
The 3D hologram gives the effect of moving eyes that seem to follow the viewer.
Besides, a touch screen kiosk allows the visitor to interact directly with the master, as if were lending a personal feel to the interaction.
Another interesting aspect of the centre is that its doors have been inscribed with 54 different names of Swami Chinmayananda. The centre was completed in three months.
“The archive centre was a tribute to the master whose contribution to the society and the nation is invaluable,” said K Bhasker Reddy, director of Chinmaya Heritage Centre, in his welcome address.
Appreciating the efforts of Swami Mitrananda, who initiated the idea of having an archive centre, Reddy said “it was completed in record time”.
Swami Mitrananda, in his benediction address, highlighted the importance of the centre.
Talking to City Express , he said that the rare photos of Swami Chinmayananda were collected from their devotees spread across India.
On the occasion, Raghavendran was felicitated for his selfless contribution to the Chinmaya Heritage Centre.
