16th Batch of Mala Grathana Workshop

The 16th Batch of the Mala Grathana Workshop was successfully conducted on 6th and 7th June 2026 at Swami Ramakrishnananda Hall, Vivekananda Cultural Centre.

The workshop commenced with floral offerings to the Holy Trio, followed by an introductory session and prayer. The training sessions were conducted by Sri Amarnath, Sri Surya, and Smt. Nirmala, who guided the participants through the traditional art of garland making.

During the two-day workshop, participants learned a variety of traditional techniques and designs including Saram, Veni, Veni Board Method, Golden Thread Veni, Lotus Petal Folding, Dhindu Malai, Jadai Alankaram, and several other decorative floral patterns. The sessions provided hands-on experience, enabling participants to appreciate the beauty and cultural significance of this sacred art.

A special and memorable highlight of the workshop was the visit of Srimat Swami Gautamanandaji Maharaj, the President of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission. During his visit to Vivekanandar Illam on 7th June, the workshop participants had the blessed opportunity to prepare a beautiful garland and offer it to Revered Maharaj. The participants received his gracious blessings, making it a truly unforgettable spiritual experience.

The valedictory function was marked by heartfelt reflections from the instructors. Sri Amarnath and Smt. Nirmala shared their experiences of teaching the traditional craft and expressed their joy in witnessing the enthusiasm, dedication, and creativity displayed by the participants throughout the workshop.

Participants also shared their experiences, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn a unique aspect of Indian tradition, as many were searching for such place and teachers. Many spoke about the joy of working with flowers, the value of preserving traditional skills, and the spiritual satisfaction derived from creating garlands for worship and service. Few expressed to join future events at VCC.

In his benedictory address, the Director Swamiji encouraged everyone to continue practising the art they had learned and to actively preserve and pass on India's rich cultural and spiritual traditions to future generations. He emphasized that such traditional arts are not merely skills but expressions of devotion, discipline, and cultural heritage.

Participation certificates were distributed to all the attendees in recognition of their successful completion of the workshop. The programme concluded with a group photograph, capturing the joyful memories of the two-day learning experience.

Throughout the workshop, participants were served tea and snacks on both days, along with lunch prasadam, which added to the warm and enjoyable atmosphere of the programme.

The workshop was a wonderful blend of learning, devotion, creativity, and cultural preservation, leaving participants inspired to continue practising and sharing the sacred art of Mala Grathana.