Omkarananda Ashram Himalayas
Think like a genius, work like a giant, live like a saint
Under the guidance of Sri Swami Omkarananda, a temple – the Durga Mandir – was built near Sivananda Ashram in Rishikesh in 1967. Known today as Omkarananda Shanta Durga Mandir, this temple began to be enlarged and expanded in 1982, becoming Omkarananda Ashram Himalayas.
The Ashram is led by Swami Vishweshwarananda and Swami Satchidananda, two direct disciples of Sri Swami Omkarananda.
Nowadays the Ashram maintains 18 very beautiful temples in the Himalayan region near Rishikesh. Some of these temples are constructed in the unique and attractive South Indian style, like the Omkarananda Kamakshi Devi Mandir.
In 1983 the Ashram began establishing and running prestigious schools and colleges, starting from Rishikesh and extending far into the Himalayan Mountains of Uttarakhand state. Presently Omkarananda Ashram Himalayas supports 46 such educational institutions.
In 1984 the Omkarananda Saraswati Natya Kala Academy was founded; it is directed by Kumari Somashekhari. Nowadays not only the practical but also the theoretical aspects of classical Indian temple dance are taught.
In the field of Sanskrit, the Ashram runs a Veda Vidyalaya, which is situated directly next to the river Ganga. Here young people learn to recite the Vedas, conduct pujas, and study the scriptures.
Among the many community services provided by Omkarananda Ashram Himalayas are the Omkarananda Government Homeopathic Hospital, a public library, a library for Sanskrit studies, the Omkarananda Public Ganga Ghat, and two guesthouses (dharmashalas) next to the river Ganga.
You will find more information about the aims and activities of Omkarananda Ashram Himalayas here.