Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!🌟 Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management Jammu, under the aegis of Anandam – The Centre for Happiness, in collaboration with ISKCON, organised an insightful and spiritually enriching session titled “Why Am I Here? – A Conversation on Purpose, Happiness & Meaningful Living” at the Mandapam Auditorium, IIM Jammu. The session was led by Swami Sriram Charana Aravinda Das Ji and witnessed the participation of students of IIM Jammu.Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, presided over the session. The session graced by Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Ānandam – The Centre for Happiness, IIM Jammu.
The keynote address by Swami Sriram Charana Aravinda Das Ji revolved around the fundamental question, “Why am I here?” Through relatable examples and engaging reflections, he encouraged students to embark on the journey of self-discovery, to understand who they are, what truly matters to them and what gives direction and meaning to their lives. He emphasised five essential aspects of a fulfilling life: preserving one’s hobbies and passions, mastering one’s habits, being mindful of where one invests attention, nurturing meaningful friendships, and cultivating gratitude. He reminded students that attention is among their most valuable resources and should be invested thoughtfully.
Swami Ji further reflected on the deeper meaning of Ānandam, emphasising that it is not merely about physical fitness or building muscles, but about understanding the purpose and goal of life, discovering oneself and cultivating lasting inner fulfilment.
Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, described the occasion as an auspicious day and extended his greetings and best wishes to the gathering. Welcoming Swami Sriram Charana Aravinda Das Ji, he highlighted IIM Jammu’s focus on happiness, well-being and holistic development through its compulsory Happiness course and Ānandam – The Centre for Happiness.
He emphasised that Ānandam seeks to equip students with the inner strength, resilience and perspective to navigate pressure and uncertainty.Drawing an important lesson from the contemporary global environment, he noted that countries with differing interests and even contradictions can come together through dialogue and coexistence. Referring to the recent BRICS Summit, he highlighted the role of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji in fostering meaningful dialogue and bringing diverse perspectives together, observing that the ability to live with differences is an important lesson for young leaders.
He also described IIM Jammu’s diverse student community as “Mini India,” where festivals and traditions from across the country are celebrated, giving students living away from home a sense of belonging. He noted that celebrations such as Ganesh Sthapana foster happiness, togetherness and emotional well-being, reinforcing Ānandam’s larger purpose of nurturing balanced, resilient and happy individuals.
Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Anandam – The Centre for Happiness, IIM Jammu, highlighted the significance of creating spaces within an educational institution that encourage students to reflect beyond academic excellence and professional success. He emphasised that holistic education must also nurture self-awareness, emotional balance, compassion and a sense of purpose, enabling young minds to grow into not only capable professionals but also responsible, empathetic and thoughtful individuals.
The interaction with the students was marked by thoughtful reflections and meaningful exchanges. Students engaged with Swami Sriram Charana Aravinda Das Ji on questions relating to purpose, happiness, ambition, relationships, inner balance and the challenges of maintaining clarity in an increasingly fast-paced world. The dialogue encouraged participants to pause amidst their academic and professional pursuits, look inward and contemplate what truly gives meaning and direction to their lives.
The session reaffirmed the vision of Anandam – The Centre for Happiness at IIM Jammu to promote holistic well-being and create meaningful opportunities for reflection, mindfulness and inner growth among students and the wider IIM Jammu community. The programme served as a gentle yet powerful reminder that while achievement may mark milestones in life, inner happiness, purposeful living and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society give those achievements lasting significance.