Ramakrishna Tapovan - a registered public charitable trust with its centre of activities at the sacred town of Polali, near Mangalore - was formed on 16th November, 2002. It is a member Ashram of Ramakrishna - Vivekananda Bhava Prachar Parishad, advised by Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math, West Bengal. Its aim is to implement “Practical Vedanta” among the masses, as it was taught and practiced by Sri Ramakrishna, Holy Mother Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. The institution is structured broadly on the lines of the renowned Ramakrishna Math and Mission, and consists of all-renouncing, committed, zealous, and celibate men. It is presumed that God realization shall be the ultimate goal to be achieved and every activity shall be centered on this one theme.

Swami Vivekananda called upon the educated youths to look upon every man, woman and child as visible Gods, and take to their service with devotion and vigor. So our endeavor is to touch the lives of masses – especially the poor and the ignorant – through appropriate programs and bring about their economical, educational and spiritual upliftment thereby achieving our own salvation as per Swamiji's motto of 'Atmano Mokshartham, Jagadhithaya Cha' meaning -- 'for the liberation of one's own self and for the welfare of the world'. This would automatically help achieve the goals of equality, justice, peace and harmony in the society. The Universal Temple of Sri Ramakrishna forms the seat of our activities. The prayer hall provides a serene and vibrant environment for meditation.

Spiritual aspirants, especially students have a great opportunity to experience the depths of meditation. This also serves as the place for daily bhajans as well as congregation of devotees during special days and festivals. The “Sadhu Nivas” (Monks' Quarters) provides residential facilities for inmates and spiritual seekers. In Swami Vivekananda Research Foundation, facilities for Library, Book-Stall, Computer Training Center, Medical Camps, Tailoring classes for rural women, Yoga Classes, Music Class, Yakshagana, Bharatanatyam and other cultural activities and also auditorium for conducting spiritual retreat and lectures. It also has facilities for students who pursue research at various Indian universities on patriot saint Swami Vivekananda. The hostel block with all modern amities consists of study hall, dining hall, kitchen, store, rest rooms and recreation hall with a capacity of 65 students provide free accommodation to economically backward children. Mathru Nivas is the guest house with well furnished rooms provide accommodation to devotees and guests .

A word about the President

Before embracing into monastic life with the name Swami Vivekachaithanyananda he was a Chartered Accountant (FCA) by profession, has also done Company Secretary(FCS), Law(LLB) and masters in arts(MA Philosophy) and Phd. in Philosophy from Mysore University on the topic “Sri Ramakrishna-The Modern Prophet of Universal Religion”. He was practicing at Bangalore, established a reputed firm and have been greatly influenced by the ideals of Sri Ramakrishna, Holy Mother Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. Finally when his Master ordered him to take up this mission, he surrendered to His wishes and has dedicated himself completely for the holy cause.

He has renounced his worldly ties quite sometime back and is leading the Institution and is serving the people under the guidance and directions of his Gurudeva, Sri Ramakrishna. These details are given only to instill confidence in you that whatever your support to our activities will be reaching the right hand and will be utilized for the purpose for which they are given.