History of RAMAKRISHNA MATH, Bolpur
Birbhum has acquired eminence all around the world on account of being the only district having five satipiths. Moreover, Birbhum also houses the holy town of Tarapith made famous by the renowned ascetic Sadhak Bamakhyapa. Bolpur is a major town in this district, its peerless reputation emerging from two distinguished institutions, viz. Santiniketan Brahmacharyasram, established by Maharshi Devendranath and Visva Bharati established by the poet of poets Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. While the practice of worshipping the formless Brahma is more prevalent in and around the town, a few followers of Sri Ramakrishna had established Sri Sri Ramakrishna Ashrama in Bolpur in 1954. The town of Bolpur has served as the purvasram of Revered Swami Madhavanandaji Maharaj and Revered Swami Dayanandaji Maharaj.
The primary temple structure was built in the year 1961 at the heart of the city with generous patronage from a few local disciples. The main temple came into existence in 1962. Initially carrying out proper and complete worship wasn’t feasible due to lack of supervision and man-power, hence for a long time only evening aaratrikam and chanting of hymns were performed. In the year 1986, Revered Swami Bhuteshswnandaji Maharaj established the marble idol of Ramkrishna in the presence of honourable monks from different centres. Gradually with the financial assistance from the followers of Sri Sri Thakur the storeroom, bedroom, a Primary School, Nibedita library, Monks’ quarters etc. were constructed. The pond near the temple was also restored. The expansion and beautification of the natmandir followed in due course. An open air assembly hall was alsobuilt at the same time adjacent to the Monks’ quarters. All these buildings were inaugurated by Revered Swami Gahananandaji Maharaj.
In the year 1992, a book selling counter and office were built there. Honourable Member of the Legislative Assembly of West Bengal and Minister of State, Govt. of West Bengal Mr. Chandranath Singha contributed significantly towards making a water supply system and prasad distribution centre.
Those who have contributed significantly since the stone-laying ceremony to date include the members of the trustee, other members and the secretaries of the temple. In the year 2015, Mr. Bharat Chandra Ghosh took over as the Secretary of the temple and his continuous efforts helped in taking over Sri Sri Ramakrishna Ashrama by the Belur Math, the Headquarter of Ramakrishna Math & Mission as per the recommendation of the trustee board of Belur Math. Ramakrishna Math, Bolpur started functioning formally from 5th July, 2020. At present this Math is engaged in various social welfare activities and showing signs of significant
progress towards facilitating people’s welfare.