Spiritual discourse on “Sampradaay” delivered by H.H. Shrimat Sadyojat Shankarashram at the Indian Institute of Management, Jammu

JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management Jammu hosted a spiritually enriching guest lecture by H.H. Shrimat Sadyojat Shankarashram, the revered spiritual head of ShrīChitrāpurMat̲h̲, at the Mandapam, IIM Jammu Auditorium, on Saturday, 14 March 2026. The lecture was organized in collaboration with Ānandam – The Centre for Happiness, an initiative dedicated to nurturing well-being, mindfulness, and value-based learning among students and faculty. Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, presided over the program.

Cmde Chaitanya Shiroor, ShrīChitrāpurMat̲h̲; Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Anandam—The Centre for Happiness; and Prof. (Brig.) (Retd.) Neeraj Soni, Co-Chairperson, Anandam, IIM Jammu, along with officers, staff, and students, graced the occasion.

Delivering a deeply reflective and spiritually elevating discourse on the theme of Sampradaay, H.H. Shrimat SadyojatShankarashram. illuminated the profound essence of tradition as a living and dynamic stream of wisdom that connects generations through knowledge, discipline, and inner awakening. He explained that Sampradaay is not merely a continuation of rituals or customs but a sacred lineage of knowledge and values transmitted through the Guru–Shishya Parampara, nurturing both intellectual growth and spiritual awareness.

Swamiji elaborated that while modern education equips individuals with the skills required to succeed in the external world, the wisdom embedded in spiritual traditions guides individuals towards inner balance, clarity of thought, and compassionate action. Through Sanskrit chants and insightful reflections, he spoke about the deeper meaning of tradition and described sampradaay as a living technique through which knowledge, experience, and values are meaningfully transmitted across generations.

Drawing parallels with management and life practices, he highlighted how the Guru–Shishya tradition represents a time-tested method of learning through experience and guidance. He also shared practical insights on understanding situations with clarity and finding balanced solutions in life. During the session, Swamiji demonstrated simple yet powerful breathing practices such as belly breathing,

Bhastrika, and diaphragmatic breathing, explaining how these techniques help calm the mind, enhance focus, and promote inner happiness and well-being. Emphasizing the timeless relevance of India’s spiritual heritage, he noted that traditions endure not through rigid preservation but through conscious understanding and sincere practice. Encouraging the younger generation to embrace this wisdom, he remarked that our traditions offer profound knowledge and values that must be passed on to future generations.

Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director, Indian Institute of Management Jammu, mentioned that it was a matter of great privilege for the institute to host H.H. Shrimat SadyojatShankarashram. of ShrīChitrāpurMat̲h̲ and interact with the students and faculty staff, of IIM Jammu. He highlighted that the institute established Anandam – The Center for Happiness during the COVID-19 pandemic with the vision of nurturing inner well-being and value-based learning among students.

The initiative was inaugurated Spiritual Guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, Art of Living Foundation; Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal, Former Hon’ble Union Minister of Education; Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir; and Padmashri Dr. Milind P. Kamble, Chairman, Board of Governors, IIM Jammu.He emphasized that India’s culture and traditions form the foundation of its civilizational strength and must be preserved and celebrated. Referring to the visionary leadership of Narendra Modi Ji,

The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, he noted that India’s rich heritage and traditions are being increasingly showcased on global platforms, strengthening national pride and cultural confidence. He further stated that at Indian Institute of Management Jammu, the pursuit of happiness and well-being forms an essential dimension of education. Through initiatives such as Anandam – The Center for Happiness, the institute strives to nurture professional excellence along with self-awareness, ethical values, and a deeper understanding of one’s roots and identity.

He remarked that the teachings and spiritual work of H.H. Shrimat SadyojatShankarashram. hold profound relevance for the younger generation and inspire students to take pride in the nation’s rich cultural heritage while contributing meaningfully to society. He concluded by expressing heartfelt gratitude to H.H. Shrimat SadyojatShankarashram. and ShrīChitrāpurMat̲h̲ for blessing the IIM Jammu community with their presence and wisdom.

Introducing ShrīChitrāpurMat̲h̲ and the spiritual legacy of H.H. Shrimat SadyojatShankarashram., Cmde Chaitanya Shiroor highlighted the rich heritage and spiritual traditions of the Math and the enduring Guru–Shishya Parampara that continues to guide the community across generations. He noted that the followers of the Math largely belong to the Saraswat Brahmin community and are devoted adherents of the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya, following the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, which emphasizes the oneness of existence and the unity of the individual self with the universal consciousness.He also mentioned that several eminent personalities from the Saraswat Brahmin communtiy have made notable contributions in diverse fields, including Ms. Deepika Padukone, Shri Prakash Padukone, Shri Guru Dutt, and Shri Shyam Benegal, who have brought pride to the nation through their achievements. He further emphasized that the community and its institutions remain deeply committed to nation-building through initiatives in education, women’s empowerment, and social development.

Highlighting the progressive outlook of institutions associated with ShrīChitrāpurMat̲h̲, he shared that many have adopted modern technological platforms such as ERP systems and sustainable practices including solar-powered infrastructure and eco-friendly initiatives, reflecting a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and environmental responsibility.

The programme began with opening remarks by Prof. (Brig.) (Retd.) Neeraj Soni, who highlighted the importance of engaging with spiritual thought leaders in shaping a balanced and enlightened perspective among future leaders. The lecture deeply resonated with the audience, offering students and participants a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the harmony between modern education, inner well-being, and timeless spiritual wisdom. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Vijay Anant Kamble, Administrative Officer-Projects, IIM Jammu, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to H.H. Shrimat SadyojatShankarashram. for his enlightening and inspiring discourse. He also thanked all dignitaries, faculty members, students, and organizers for their enthusiastic participation in making the event a memorable and meaningful experience.

Following the session, an engaging interactive session and Q&A was held where students interacted with Swāmījī and sought insights on various aspects of tradition, spirituality, and contemporary life. Swāmījī also interacted personally with participants. During his visit, he toured the IIM Jammu campus, including the Nalanda Library and smart classrooms, and planted a Rudraksha sapling in the courtyard arena, symbolizing spiritual growth and environmental consciousness.The event reaffirmed the commitment of the Indian Institute of Management Jammu to holistic education, fostering meaningful dialogue that blends management learning with philosophical insight, cultural wisdom, and the pursuit of happiness and inner well-being.