RAMAKRISHNA MISSION, HAFLONG
Ramakrishna Mission, Haflong is a brand-new branch centre of the world-wide renowned organization Ramakrishna Mission headquartered at Belur Math in West Bengal, the very place where Swami Vivekananda lived his last years and passed away in mahasamadhi. A devoted group of followers of Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Ideology founded “Sri Ramakrishna Seva Samity”, in 1945 to deepen their association with the ideals of Sri Ramakrishna and to serve the local tribal people. After continuing its activities independently for nearly eight decades, the Seva Samity came into the fold of Ramakrishna Mission on 10 May 2024, following its takeover by the Belur Math authorities.
THE MAKING OF RAMAKRISHNA MISSION, HAFLONG
Haflong is the only hill station in Assam – It proudly claims the title of being the only hill station in the state of Assam. Its unique position amidst the hills makes it a rare and distinctive destination for those seeking a respite from the plains of Assam. It is situated in the southern part of Assam. It is the only hilly town of Assam in the true sense. It is the district Headquarters of Dima Hasao district. The district comprises of around 4890 sq.km. and the population of this district are mostly tribals comprising of Dimasas, Jeme Naga, Kuki, Hmar, Hrangkhol, Baite, Jaintia, Khasi, Karbi, Khelma and many more. The Dimasas are the prominent among all the groups. A considerable population of Bengali, Nepali and Assamese communities reside here hand in hand with the Tribal Communities.
Due to the commissioning of Railway line throughout this district, people belonging to the Bengali Community came and settled here at Haflong for businesses as well as for the purpose of commissioning of Railway line. Amongst themselves, some people were there who were deeply inspired by the Ideology Sri Ramakrishna-Sarada devi and Swami Vivekananda. They began to feel the necessity to form an association to serve and propagate the holy teachings of Thakur-Maa-Swamiji.
They were motivated and inspired in the formation of such association by some visiting Monks of the Ramakrishna Orders from the Kumilla and Sylhet District of undivided India.
During 1945, Rev. Swami Ajoyanandaji Maharaj paid his visit to Haflong from Kumilla and stayed there for over a month. He used to deliver discourse covering various aspects of the teaching of Thakur, Maa and Swamiji at the Local Jagannath Bari Premises as well as at the residences of some of the ardent devotees, during his prolonged stay at Haflong. that Rev Maharaj is one of the prominent personalities who had motivated the local devotees in the formation of an Association to which would help them to practice and propagate the holy teachings of Thakur, Maa and Swamiji.
Some prominent personalities like Late Benode Behari Chakraborty, Late Kamini Kumar Sharma, Late Girindra Bala Dasi, Late Bipon Chanda Deb and others had taken the pain in the formation of that Association and accordingly, on 9 December, 1945, an Association in the name and style of “SEVASHARAM” was formed. The Activities of this “SEVASHARAM” had commenced at the Local Jagannath Bari Premises from the beginning of 1946. Immediately, a Library, containing various books on the Life and Teachings of the Holi Trios and other pertinent books and journals, was set up with meager donations of the devotees.
Primarily, it was intended to form the Association in the name & style of “RAMAKRISHNA SEVASHARAM”. But, the then local British Administration did not approve the nomenclature, and hence, the name of the Association was renamed as “SEVASHARAM”.
In course of time, with the attainment of Independence in the year 1947, the name of the Association was again renamed as “RAMAKRISHNA SEVASHARAM” in the year 1951. Later, in the same year, i.e., in the year 1951, the nomenclature of the Association was finally renamed as “SRI RAMAKRISHNA SEVA SAMITY”.
The Activities of the Samity had been carried out from the Local Jagannath Bari Premises wef 9 December 1945 to 1951 up till the allotment of 22 Bigha and 8 Katha of Land to the Samity by the Local Administration.
The allotted land was a hillock with innumerable trees and shrubs. The gigantic tasks of leveling the Hill Tops for the establishment of a Prayer Hall and a Student Hostel were the utter concern of the devotees at that period of time. But people cutting across different caste, creed and communities, joined hand together, rendered their invaluable “Shram Dan” for clearing and leveling the hill top. A large numbers of employees from Railways, 9th Punjab Regiment, 63 Dogra Regiment, Orissa Military Police, Assam Police Battalion and others also rendered their invaluable “Shram Dan” for the above purpose.
In the Year 1955, the construction of the “CHATRABAS” (tin-shed house) was accomplished out of the donations raised from the devotees since, 1947. On 22 February, 1956, this “CHATRABAS” was inaugurated. A second Chatrabas was constructed during the early part of 60’s.
In the year 1959, the construction of the GARVA MANDIR was ceremonially commenced with the donations as raised from the devotees since, 1947. And the Garva Mandir was formally inaugurated on 13 October, 1963, on the auspicious occasion of 100th Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. Several Monks from Belur Math had graced that auspicious occasion. The prominent among them were Swami Japanandaji Maharaj, Swami Bhabyanandaji Maharaj, Swami Pranabatmanandaji Maharaj, Swami Sohananandaji Maharaj, Swami Kalyanandaji Maharaj (Vedanta Math), Swami Jibendu Maharaj and Privrajika Shradhaprana Mataji (Sarada Math).
During 50s Rev Swami Chandikanandaji Maharaj had paid his august visits on several occasion to this Ashrama. Maharajji took the pain in teaching the devotional songs to the local devotees. Swami Somyanandaji Maharaj was also instrumental in teaching Bhajans etc. to the devotees.
In the year 1954, with the inspiration of Swami Chandikanandaji Maharaj, “The Sarada Sangha” was formed with the local lady devotees. Every week, the members of the Sarada Samity used to arrange Path O Alochona in the house of some of the devotees.
In the year 1970, the name of the “The Sarada Sangha” has been changed to “The Sarada Samity” as per the guidelines of Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Every Sunday, Members of the Sarada Samity usually gather in the evening, for Patha, Alochana etc.
This Ashrama to an Affiliated Branch Centre of Ramakrishna math & Mission, it has also been a member of Uttar Purbanchal Bhav Prachar Parisad-III and this Ashram had successfully organized Parisad’s Annual/Half-Yearly for two times.
In the year 1970, with the active initiative of some the lady devotees and with the direct inspiration of Rev Satyen Maharaj, “Vivekananda Sishu Sangha” was formed. Later on, with the demise of some the active lady devotees, the activities of the “Vivekananda Sishu Sangha” have diminished considerably.
This Samity/Ashrama has been blessed by the visits of some of our illustrious Presidents of our Order starting with Revered Swami Madhavanandaji in 1940. Several other Presidents and Vice Presidents, Revered Swami Bhuteshanandaji, Swami Gahananandaji and in recent times, Revered Swami Vagishanandaji, Swami Shivamayanandaji, Swami Girishanandaji, visited this Centre, some of them multiple times.
Since its inception in 1945, a Library cum book sell counter has been functional as on date.
The devotion of the founders of the Ashrama and their service to the local masses could set up a rich tradition to follow for their descending generations. Deriving inspiration from the predecessors, the later generations and some other dedicated followers, during the later part of the 70's and early 80's, had taken the initiative to formalize the present set up of this Ashrama. Their initiative resulted in to the construction of the Mandir Prayer Hall, by further leveling the hill top and the construction of the MONKS’ GUEST HOUSE for the visiting monks. The Managing Committee of the Ashrama persuaded the Public Works Department to construct Pucca Approach Road up to the Ashrama Campus. These advancements created a new enthusiasm and the successive Managing Committees of the Ashrama continuously took up various developmental initiatives to bring it up in its present shape. The "PANCHAVATI", a sacred place earmarked for prayer and meditation had been constructed.
In course of time, the new "Students Home-cum-Library" and the "Cutural Hall” came up. Every one of the succeeding generations representing various Managing Committees tried their utmost to develop and uphold the name and fame of this Ashrama.
In the year 2023 a two-storied MONKS’ GUEST HOUSE cum HOSTEL BUILDING has been constructed with the Aid of Govt. of Assam. The Hostel Building can now accommodate 50(Fifty) Students.
Since inception, the strength of this Ashrama has always been the lady devotees, the members of Sarada Samity and other dedicated lady disciples. They are the firm pillars of all Ashrama activities; they have always performed the Puja Activities of the Ashrama and Sadhu Seva with utmost devotion and dedication. It is for their active participation only that we could meticulously accomplish these activities.
Despite having rendered commendable seva related activities, the Ashrama has been ill equipped with the power of motivating and convincing the local tribal people in the process of bringing them to the Ramakrishna Bhabaandolon. They could not be properly motivated and educated with the teachings of the Math and Mission.
With that aim in view, and in order to properly motivate and educate the tribal masses with the teachings of the Math and Mission by some experienced monastic order. Since the inception of this Ashrama in 1945, each and every Managing Committee of the Ashrama, while realizing the ample opportunity to practice and propagate the teachings of the Holy Trio in this area had tried their level best to persuade the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Belur, to take over this Ashrama as their full-fledged Centre or a Sub-Centre of a nearby Centre with some monastic support.
During April, 2023, The Ashrama was declared as the Sub-Centre of Ramakrishna Mission Sevashram, Silchar. Swami Pranarupanandaji Maharaj was sent to this Ashrama to monitor the process of transferring the Movable and immovable assets of Sri Ramakrishna Seva Samity, Haflong in favour of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Belur Math. Swami Ganadhisanandaji Maharaj, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission Sevashram, Silchar was made the In-charge of the Samity.
On 10th of May, 2024, has finally recognized this Ashrama as the full-fledged Branch Centre of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Belur math. The nomenclature has now been changed as “RAMAKRISHNA MISSION, HAFLONG”. On this date, Swami Amiteshanandaji Maharaj has taken over the charge of “RAMAKRISHNA MISSION, HAFLONG” as the Secretary of “RAMAKRISHNA MISSION, HAFLONG”.
A BRIEF SKETCH OF HAFLONG, DIMA HASAO DISTRICT, ASSAM
Haflong, nestled in the pristine landscapes of Assam, remains a captivating tourist attraction. Known for its tranquil ambience, lush green hills, and lovely Haflong Lake, it continues to draw visitors seeking respite from urban life. The current state of Haflong boasts well-preserved natural beauty and a growing focus on sustainable tourism. Tourists are drawn to its scenic vistas, adventure opportunities, and a chance to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Dimasa indigenous community. Haflong stands as a haven where nature and culture harmonize, making it a cherished destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
HISTORY OF HAFLONG
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Assam, this hill station holds a significant place in the cultural and historical tapestry of India. Historically, it was inhabited by the Dimasa indigenous community, known for their rich cultural heritage and unique traditions. After gaining independence, it continued to thrive as a scenic hill station and cultural hub, attracting travelers from all over the country. It is an important bridge between indigenous cultures and modern influences, making it a unique destination that beautifully showcases the diverse history of India.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT HAFLONG
Haflong, a peaceful hill station nestled amidst Assam’s verdant surroundings, offers much more than just breathtaking views and calm surroundings. Although its natural beauty is well-known, there are several hidden gems and interesting facts that enhance the charm of this secluded paradise. In this segment, we will reveal a few of these captivating details about this place that could astonish even experienced explorers.
- Haflong is the only hill station in Assam – It proudly claims the title of being the only hill station in the state of Assam. Its unique position amidst the hills makes it a rare and distinctive destination for those seeking a respite from the plains of Assam.
- Jatinga and the enigmatic bird mystery – Jatinga, a village located near Haflong, is known for an enigmatic and eerie phenomenon known as the “Jatinga Bird Mystery.” During certain months, birds are known to descend from the sky, seemingly committing ‘mass suicide.’ Scientists and ornithologists have been baffled by this phenomenon for decades.
- The abode of the Dimasa tribe – Haflong is situated in the heartland of the Dimasa tribe, one of the indigenous communities of Assam. This town is not only a testament to their culture but also offers a chance to immerse oneself in the vibrant traditions and artistry of the Dimasa people.
- Haflong Lake’s clear waters – Haflong Lake, the heart of the town, boasts incredibly clear waters. It is believed to be one of the few natural lakes in India with such pristine water quality, making it a perfect spot for boating and picnics.

RAMAKRISHNA MISSION, HAFLONG
Ramakrishna Mission, Haflong is a brand-new branch centre of the world-wide renowned organization Ramakrishna Mission headquartered at Belur Math in West Bengal, the very place where Swami Vivekananda lived his last years and passed away in mahasamadhi. A devoted group of followers of Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Ideology founded “Sri Ramakrishna Seva Samity”, in 1945 to deepen their association with the ideals of Sri Ramakrishna and to serve the local tribal people. After continuing its activities independently for nearly eight decades, the Seva Samity came into the fold of Ramakrishna Mission on 10 May 2024, following its takeover by the Belur Math authorities.

Handover to Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission
During April, 2023, The Ashrama was declared as the Sub-Centre of Ramakrishna Mission Sevashram, Silchar. Swami Pranarupanandaji Maharaj was sent to this Ashrama to monitor the process of transferring the Movable and immovable assets of Sri Ramakrishna Seva Samity, Haflong in favour of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Belur Math. Swami Ganadhisanandaji Maharaj, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission Sevashram, Silchar was made the In-charge of the Samity. On 10th of May, 2024, has finally recognized this Ashrama as the full-fledged Branch Centre of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Belur math. The nomenclature has now been changed as “RAMAKRISHNA MISSION, HAFLONG”. On this date, Swami Amiteshanandaji Maharaj has taken over the charge of “RAMAKRISHNA MISSION, HAFLONG” as the Secretary of “RAMAKRISHNA MISSION, HAFLONG”.

Explore Haflong – The Crown Jewel of Assam's Hills
Haflong is more than just a scenic destination—it is a place where nature and culture meet in perfect harmony. The region is home to the Dimasa tribe, one of Assam's indigenous communities, whose vibrant customs, traditions, and festivals bring a unique cultural flavor to this tranquil town. Visitors have the opportunity to explore local heritage through traditional crafts, cuisine, and warm hospitality.
Among the region’s many attractions is the nearby village of Jatinga, famous worldwide for the unexplained phenomenon of bird behavior during specific months—a mystery that continues to intrigue scientists and travelers alike.
Nature lovers and adventure seekers alike will find plenty to enjoy. The Barak Valley Express offers a scenic train journey through dramatic landscapes and lush forests. Meanwhile, Fiangpui Garden enchants with its wide variety of colorful flora, offering a peaceful retreat for relaxation and reflection.