Belur Math is a popular tourist attraction and pilgrimage site in West Bengal, India. When I first heard about it, I hesitate to visit, but my brother took me there. Belur Math is a significant destination, for its architecture, spiritual atmosphere, and the role it played in the life of Swami Vivekananda. At times when people seeks sprituality, it is a perfect place to be. The temple's serene natural surroundings and spiritually uplifting atmosphere make it a must visit destination for those seeking peace and reflection.
Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Movement, a worldwide spiritual movement. Belur Math is located on the west bank of the Hooghly River, an hour's drive from Kolkata. Belur Math is a monastery and temple in Belur, West Bengal, India that is known for its architecture, religious significance, and peaceful atmosphere.
The Ramakrishna Mission is significant as a major spiritual and philanthropic organization in India, founded by Swami Vivekananda to spread the teachings of Hindu saint Ramakrishna, focusing on the principles of Vedanta philosophy and promoting social service through selfless work, with a core belief in the unity of all religions and the importance of serving humanity without distinction of caste, creed, or nationality; essentially aiming to achieve spiritual liberation while working for the welfare of the world.
The place is well connected through railway lines and roadways. Belur railways staion is the nearest station. One can get down and take an battery operated rickshaw to reach this place. The place has a huge entrance gate that welcomes all the visitors.
The Ramakrishna Mission (RKM) is a non-governmental organization (NGO) that promotes the teachings of Vedanta and Hindu philosophy, and engages in social and humanitarian services. The RKM is based on principles such as the oneness of existence, the potential divinity of all beings, and the harmony of religions.
Even people who aren't interested in religion visit Belur Math for its peace. The motto of the Ramakrishna Mission is "Atmano Mokshartham Jagaddhitaya Cha" which means "For one's own liberation and for the welfare of the world". Right at the entrance we have a detailed map of the entire compound. One can easily navigate themselves to every corner of the place.
As soon as, I entered the place, I experince a differrnt vibes. Even though the place is crowded, there was immense peace. The breeze coming from the Hooghly River is keep us cool in the hot afternoon weather. The compound was well maintained with beautiful garden.
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In middle, we have the big structure. The temple's design combines elements of Hindu, Islamic, and Christian architecture, and is intended to symbolize the unity of religions. From different angles, the temple resembles a mosque, a church, or a temple. The temple is covered with detailed sculptures and carvings depicting mythological stories, deities, and everyday life scenes, providing a rich visual narrative.
Photography is not allowed inside the temple. When I stepped in, I felt being cut out of the entire world. The place was cool as well quite peaceful. Many people were sitting and meditating. The temple houses the relics of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, and images of religious leaders from around the world, including Jesus Christ, Lord Buddha, and Prophet Mohammed.
Established by Swami Vivekananda, a key disciple of Ramakrishna, the Mission is based on the teachings of Ramakrishna which emphasize the unity of all religions and the pursuit of spiritual realization through various paths like Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Jnana Yoga. The Ramakrishna Mission, based at Belur Math, distributes milk and blankets to people in poverty. They also inhouse one of the biggest kitchen that serves meals to all the visitors. The huge hall, just behind the temple can accommodate more 2500 people at once. Lush green surrounding right at the bank of Hooghly river makes it a perfect place to visit and spend evening time.
The Belur Math campus is spread around, 40 acres (16 hectares). It has the big temple and museum , public toilet, library and many other building.
One would need a perfect pair of shoes to make the entire trip. Despite being a popular tourist spot, the temple often has a peaceful ambiance, allowing visitors to appreciate the art and architecture at their own pace. It was an awe inspiring experience that hard to erase.
"If life says you take peace go to this place without any second thoughts. You will get your energy back"
