Mysuru: Strong determination and perseverance can transform what once seemed impossible into reality, and the construction of the Viveka Smaraka in Mysuru stands as proof of that belief, said Swami Muktidanandaji, President of Sri Ramakrishna Ashram, Mysuru.

Addressing the gathering at ‘Viveka Smaraka – Kruthajnata Samarpana’ programme at Viveka Smaraka – Amphitheatre in city yesterday, he said the project had overcome numerous challenges before becoming a reality.

“When we set out to build the Viveka Memorial, we faced several obstacles, including misinformation campaigns and financial constraints. Despite these challenges, we have successfully built a Memorial in honour of Swami Vivekananda. It is a fitting example of how determination and perseverance can turn what appears impossible into reality,” he said.

Swami Muktidanandaji said, the Ashram had been determined that the Memorial should be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After the PM’s Office was convinced, through documentary evidence, that the project was free from controversy, it confirmed the PM’s participation in the inauguration, he said.

Speaking on the occasion, MLC Raghu R. Kautilya described Mysuru as a sacred city and said, its rich cultural and spiritual heritage had inspired generations.

Recalling Swami Vivekananda’s visit to Mysuru during the reign of Maharaja Sri Chamarajendra Wadiyar X, he said the monk had stayed at the very site where the Memorial now stands.

The Viveka Smaraka, he added, was built through the sustained efforts of several individuals under the leadership of Swami Muktidanandaji.

Senior Advocate S. Arunkumar, former MLC G. Madhusudan, Swami Yukteshanandaji, Ashram alumnus Ravikiran & industrialist Srinath were present.