New Delhi. A Shraddhanjali Sabha in remembrance of A. Balakrishnan Ji, President of Vivekanand Kendra, honouring a life devoted to the service of Ma Bharati and for bringing education and social development to some of the most remote regions of Arunachal Pradesh, was held at Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF).
RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat Ji, offered Pushpanjali and remembered A. Balakrishnan Ji as a Sampoorna Karyakarta, whose life was defined by an unwavering commitment to duty. Even in the face of health difficulties, his thoughts remained centred on the work and the responsibilities entrusted to him. His dedication, simplicity and steadfast sense of duty remain an enduring example of selfless service.
VIF Chairman S. Gurumurthy Ji remembered Balakrishnan Ji as an “ordinary-looking extraordinary” person, whose quiet dedication and selfless efforts contributed to building society without seeking recognition. He recalled him as a true foot soldier of Swami Vivekananda and Eknath Ji, whose extraordinary contribution emerged through a life of discipline, simplicity and service.
The condolence message of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji was read on the occasion. Remembering Balakrishnan Ji’s more than five decades of selfless service, the Prime Minister paid tribute to his tireless grassroots work, particularly his exceptional contribution to taking education to children in remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh. He also recalled his humility, warmth and lifelong commitment to serving the nation.
A message from Mata Amritanandamayi (Amma) expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Balakrishnan Ji, remembering his sincere and dedicated life in the footsteps of Swami Vivekanand. She paid tribute to his spirit of sacrifice and selflessness, noting that a life devoted to a great movement and a noble ideal will continue to inspire generations.
One of the most emotional moments of the evening came from the alumni of the Vivekanand Kendra Vidyalaya (VKVs) in Arunachal Pradesh. Their heartfelt tribute was a moving expression of gratitude to Balakrishnan Ji for his role in building an educational movement that transformed the lives of generations of children in the region. Their candid words reflected the enduring impact of his work, not merely as an educationist and institution-builder, but as someone whose service shaped lives and inspired generations.
Director, VIF, Shri Arvind Gupta Ji, spoke of the foundational role played by A. Balakrishnan Ji and the Vivekanand Kendra in shaping the Vivekanand International Foundation. He also shared personal recollections of his enriching interactions and meetings with Balakrishnan Ji, remembering with gratitude his wisdom, warmth and enduring contribution to the institution.
Ku. Nivedita Bhide Ji, Vice President, Vivekanand Kendra, shared deeply moving memories of Balakrishnan Ji’s unwavering faith in the Divine and his profound concern for fellow karyakartas. She also remembered his final message to fellow workers: to never forget that God is with them and to hold firmly to that faith through every difficulty.
A. Balakrishnan Ji’s legacy lives on in the institutions he helped build, the countless lives he touched and the generations of karyakartas and students who carry forward the values of service, courage, faith and nation-building.
As the gathering came to a close, all present joined in a prayer for his eternal peace and offered their collective Shraddhanjali in remembrance of his life and service.
ॐ शान्तिः।
