[music and singing] [singing] [music] >> My problem with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Mata Sharda Devi and Swami Vivekananda. Ramakrishna Math is an institution I deeply respect. It has played an important role in my life. >> [applause] >> Today, as we celebrate 100 years of Ramakrishna Ashrama Mysore, let us journey back to where it all began. Seeking to experience the soul of India, Swami Vivekananda walked the land as a parivrajaka, a wandering monk, until destiny brought him to Bangalore. [music] Recognizing his spiritual brilliance, Dewan K. Seshadri Iyer invited him to Mysore. At Niranjana Math, where he resided, [music] Swamiji's words stirred minds and souls before he was introduced to Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar the 10th, [music] whose support helped send him to the Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893. [music] Before leaving Mysore, Swamiji [music] declared, "This land shall one day be a great stronghold." That prophecy found expression [music] in the founding of Ramakrishna Ashrama's first center at Ratnavilas under Swami Siddheswarananda Ji, dedicated to the ideal Atmano Mokshartham Jagat Hitaya Cha. The Ashrama entered a new chapter at Yadavagiri on land generously gifted [music] by Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar. A students' home opened its doors. Among its early residents was Kuvempu, who later became a Rashtrakavi. The study circle strengthened the Ashrama's spiritual life culminating in the consecration of its temple by Swami Madhavanandaji Maharaj in 1950. Under Swami Shambhavanandaji, Sri Ramakrishna Vidyashala was established, shaping generations through value-based education. The Ramakrishna Institute [music] of Moral and Spiritual Education extended that mission, enriching teachers, students, and seekers [music] alike. In the years that followed, initiatives such as Viveka Prabha, a monthly magazine, Viveka Shikshana, Gadadhara Abhyudaya Prakalpa, and Seva Mandiras, the Ashrama's service reached thousands across Karnataka. Today, that century of service stands [music] embodied in Viveka Smaraka. Guided by 10 >> [music] >> Adhyakshas, inspired by Swami Vivekananda, nurtured by the Wadiyar kings, and sustained by generations of devotees, the stronghold Swamiji envisioned lives on through compassionate service, timeless values, and the countless lives it continues to inspire. >> [singing] [music]