Lucknow – On the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel, visited the Ramakrishna Math and the Vivekananda Polyclinic & Institute of Medical Sciences in Nirala Nagar, Lucknow.
She was warmly received by Swami Muktinathananda Maharaj, President of the Math, who presented her with a bouquet of roses. The Governor then offered traditional prayers to Sri Ramakrishna, Holy Mother Sarada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda at the temple. In the Math auditorium, she tied rakhi to children studying under the Gadadhar Abhyuday Prakalpa, a project supporting economically disadvantaged students. The moment was both emotional and celebratory, with the Governor also gifting towels, books, pens, and sweets to the children.
Swami Muktinathananda Maharaj honoured the Governor with a sapling, a book on Holy Mother, and a sari offered at the shrine as prasadam.
Later, at the Vivekananda Polyclinic & Institute of Medical Sciences, she offered floral tributes to the 14-foot-tall statue of Swami Vivekananda. Addressing nursing students and faculty, she highlighted the value of service, remarking, “Daughters have always been responsible and capable managers. Service is greater than a mere job.”
Her visit, made in a personal capacity, was aimed at interacting with students of the Math and the hospital. Officials, faculty, staff, and monks were present for the occasion. Swami Muktinathananda expressed that her presence was a matter of pride and that her words would inspire all associated with the institution.
