KOLKATA: In response to escalating tensions among nations worldwide, monks from the Gaudiya Mission are embarking on a peace mission to Europe, Australia, the United States, and Canada. The primary goal of this mission is to establish spiritual schools, known as Para-Vidyapith, across these continents, aiming to harness the power of spirituality, morality, and human values to foster world peace.
Delegation Leadership and Itinerary
The three-member delegation will be led by Bhakti Sundar Sanyasi Goswami Maharaj, the President of Gaudiya Mission. The team will visit the United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, Australia, America, and Canada. They will depart from Kolkata on May 14 and return to the city on July 7.
Objectives and Activities Abroad
During their extended stay overseas, the delegation plans to set up spiritual schools at existing Gaudiya Mission branches. They will also engage with non-resident Indians who have expressed keen interest in supporting the establishment of these centers, which are expected to play a crucial role in eliminating hatred against humanity, as stated by Bhakti Sundar Maharaj.
Historical Background of Para-Vidyapith
The concept of Para-Vidyapith was introduced by Acharya Bhakti Siddhanta Goswami Prabhupad, the founder of Gaudiya Mission in Bagbazar. Influenced by Sri Chaitanya Deb's teachings of universal love, he established the first spiritual school at Bagbazar in 1935. In 1966, the Government of India recognized this institution as an academic institute.
Evolution into a Research Institute
In 2014, the mission authority transformed the spiritual school into a research institute, as informed by Bhakti Nistha Madhusudan Maharaj, the assistant secretary of Gaudiya Mission. Currently, the headquarters in Bagbazar and the branch in Nabadwip together host 400 students.
This initiative underscores the mission's commitment to spreading spiritual education and fostering global harmony through the establishment of Para-Vidyapith centers worldwide.
