Belur Math

Belur Math is a fascinating spiritual centre that was established to build a foundation of the Ramakrishna Movement. The movement was inspired by Ramakrishna Paramhansa, an Indian Saint who was also the Guru of Swami Vivekananda. The mission was founded in the late 19th Century and aimed at imparting spirituality through extensive philanthropic and educational work. It functions on the principles of Karma Yoga/ Karma Marga according to which right work done properly and with selflessness is considered to be a prayer to God. Swami Vivekananda, along with his disciples, founded the Belur Math in 1886 which is considered to be a monastic organisation of the Ramakrishna Movement with an absolute focus on spiritual training and propagation of the teachings of Ramakrishna Paramhansa. The math spreads over a vast expanse of 40 acres and consists of several temples built amidst scenic surroundings. The campus houses the Ramakrishna Temple which has the relics of Sri Ramakrishna, Vivekananda Swami’s room, some of his belonging, Swami Brahmananda Temple, Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi Temple, Swami Vivekananda Temple and the Samadhi of Sri Ramakrishna. Tourists can spend almost the entire day at the math soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and exploring the beautiful architecture which has a stunning blend of Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist and Christian art. The math promotes unity in humankind irrespective of the religion they are born in.