A REPORT FROM THE INTERNATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT
At VKM College
Every journey begins long before the first step is taken. Sometimes it begins as a quiet thought, a gentle invitation from life itself. As I boarded the train from Chennai on the evening of 23 June, watching the familiar landscapes gradually give way to distant horizons, I looked forward to witnessing the living spirit of Theosophy expressed through fellowship, learning, and service.
The rhythmic movement of the train seemed almost symbolic—a reminder that life itself is a journey, carrying each of us from where we are towards what we may yet become.
The Spirit of Utkal (Odisha)
On 24 June, I arrived in the beautiful city of Bhubaneswar, making my way to the peaceful surroundings of the Utkal Theosophical Centre in Gautam Nagar. The warmth of the welcome immediately made it feel less like arriving at a venue and more like returning to an extended family.
The following four days were devoted to the Youth Gathering organized by the Young Indian Theosophists, centred on the inspiring theme "Seeking – Serving – Becoming."
It was heartening to witness so many young minds gathering not merely to listen, but to question, reflect, and discover together. Each day unfolded naturally around one aspect of the theme.
We explored Seeking—the courage to question, to search beyond appearances, and to cultivate an open and enquiring mind.
We reflected upon Serving—not as an obligation, but as the spontaneous flowering of compassion when we begin to recognize the unity of life.
Finally, we contemplated Becoming—the lifelong journey of inner transformation, where ideals gradually become living realities through daily practice.
What made these days truly memorable was that learning never remained confined to the lecture hall. Every morning began with yoga and bharat samaj puja, setting a quiet and reflective tone for the day. Interactive discussions, group activities, and lively question-and-answer sessions created an atmosphere where everyone felt encouraged to participate, share experiences, and learn from one another. Rather than formal lectures, the gathering became a collective exploration, with every participant enriching the conversation.
Among the many meaningful experiences, one stands out vividly.
The whole group visited an old age home, where one of the young Theosophists—who also happens to be a medical doctor—organized health check-ups for the residents. All of us took up one duty to be a part of this initiative. Watching these young volunteers move gently from one elderly person to another, offering assistance, conversation, smiles, and companionship, one could see the real meaning of Theosophy expressed without a single philosophical quotation. Service ceased to be an abstract ideal. It became kindness in action.
The grateful smiles of the residents perhaps taught us more than any classroom discussion ever could. It reminded us that wisdom is ultimately measured not by what we know, but by the love we express.
As the gathering concluded, it became evident that everyone was leaving with something more valuable than notes or photographs. New friendships had been formed, fresh inspiration had arisen, and perhaps a few seeds had been planted that will quietly continue to grow in the years ahead.
Voices Beyond the Gathering
On 29 June, I departed Bhubaneswar for New Delhi. The pace changed considerably as I arrived at the PMC Hindi Studio to record a series of podcasts on Theosophy and the Theosophical Society.
Unlike a live audience, a microphone offers no visible response. Yet it carries the remarkable possibility of reaching listeners across distances and generations. It was a wonderful opportunity to present timeless ideas in a format that can continue touching lives long after the recording lights have been switched off.
Continuing the Conversation
The journey then continued through several cities of northern India, where each gathering brought its own unique atmosphere and reflections.
On 4 July, in Chohan lodge (estd. 1882) Kanpur, we explored "The Quest that is Life." Together we reflected on the universal search that quietly unites humanity—the search for truth, meaning, and lasting happiness.
The following day, 5 July, in Satya Marg lodge (estd. 1882) Lucknow, the discussion centred on "Holistic View of Life." It was an invitation to look beyond fragmented thinking and recognise the profound interconnectedness of the physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions of existence. During this visit a book was also inaugurated.
On 9 July, in Anand Lodge (estd. 1903) Prayagraj, the subject "Theosophy and Swadharma" encouraged thoughtful reflection on discovering one's own inner path and fulfilling one's unique responsibility in harmony with the greater purpose of life.
Each city, each audience, and every conversation reaffirmed a beautiful truth: while languages, cultures, and personal backgrounds may differ, the deeper questions of human life remain remarkably universal.
Returning to Familiar Ground
On 10 July, I visited the Headquarters of the Indian Section, where it was a joy to reconnect with several long-standing members, including Mr. and Mrs. Sundaram, whose years of dedicated service continue to inspire many. Last time I was here in 2019, as a first time convention officer for the 144th TS Intl Convention and the bonds of friendship then formed, still carried the same warmth upon meeting, after 7 years of gap.
The visit also provided an opportunity to meet the Principal of VKM College and congratulate her on the approval of the University's Value Added Course—an important milestone for which I had the privilege of conducting online sessions with the college students over the past couple of years. Witnessing this initiative take root and receive formal recognition was deeply encouraging. It served as a reminder that sincere effort, patiently sustained over time, often bears fruit in ways we may not immediately foresee.
The Journey Continues
Looking back, this journey was measured not by kilometres travelled but by hearts encountered. From the quiet train ride leaving Chennai, to the enthusiasm of young seekers in Bhubaneswar, the compassionate service at the old age home, meaningful conversations through podcasts, inspiring gatherings across North India, and joyful reunions with long-serving members, every step seemed woven into one continuous thread.
For every sincere seeker eventually discovers that true knowledge blossoms into service, and every act of selfless service quietly transforms the one who serves. In that ongoing process of seeking truth, serving life, and becoming a little more compassionate each day, the timeless work of Theosophy continues—not only in meetings and lectures, but in the unfolding of human hearts.
YIT Bharat Samaj Puja
YIT Service Activity
YIT QA with the Intl VP
YIT Activity Mask versus Reality
YIT Group
The PMC Show x Shikhar Agnihotri
Chohan Lodge Kanpur
Satyamarg Lodge Lucknow
Book Inaugration SM Lodge Lucknow
Anand Lodge Prayagraj
Anand Lodge
With Former GS of Indian section Mr and Mrs Sundaram and my mother Vasumati ji
