December 6th 2025.
In today's world, when we often associate social welfare with government programs and non-governmental organizations, there is another form of community service that is gaining popularity through India's spiritual institutions. The Vishwa Jagriti Mission, founded in 1991 by Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj, has been successfully combining spiritual teachings with social outreach for over thirty years. What started as a small presence at Delhi's Anand Dham Ashram has now expanded to over 80 centers across India and even abroad.
At the core of VJM's mission is the promotion of meditation and moral reflection through regular satsangs, meditation sessions, and retreats. In addition to its strong presence in India, the organization also operates in countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, and the United States. These retreats, held at places like Sadhna Dham Ashram, Anand Dham Ashram, and sacred sites like Rishikesh, Dwarka, and Ayodhya, offer participants opportunities to engage in jap, simran, yagya, and immerse themselves in the local culture.
This approach is in line with a larger trend seen in spiritual movements in India, where traditional practices are being adapted to cater to modern audiences who seek inner peace and a sense of belonging to a community. VJM's efforts in this direction are also reflected in their initiatives for the elderly. At Anand Dham Ashram, senior citizens live in a community where they engage in daily prayer, yoga, and share responsibilities. This model of elder care is shaped by faith and the idea of living together as a collective, fostering a sense of companionship rather than isolation.
In addition to spiritual programs, VJM also runs medical and educational initiatives in various regions. According to their website, the organization has provided medical services to around 2.8 million outpatients and performed over 40,000 eye surgeries. The Karuna Sindhu Charitable Hospital, situated at Anand Dham Ashram, has treated more than 14 lakh patients and carried out over 25,000 cataract surgeries. All medicines are provided free of cost to patients. Moreover, VJM regularly organizes blood donation camps and offers free health and eye check-ups.
One of their notable initiatives in the field of education is Gyandeep, a school that provides formal education to more than 2,500 students, including over 1,000 girls from underprivileged backgrounds. This school, located in Faridabad, not only offers modern digital classrooms but also supports overall child development by providing nutritious food, uniforms, stationery, and skill-development opportunities.
Apart from these, VJM also actively participates in community welfare projects and relief efforts during natural disasters. They also work towards uplifting tribal communities in remote areas by providing healthcare and literacy initiatives through the help of dedicated volunteers. These activities, although rooted in faith, serve as a testament to the organization's commitment to social welfare, much like secular NGOs.
Another significant project of VJM is the Nari Abhyudaya Abhiyan, which focuses on educating and empowering women and girls. As the organization continues to expand its reach, it has become an essential part of India's voluntary sector. According to Dr. Shweta Sharma, Director of Mansa Global Foundation for Mental Health, such organizations play a crucial role in engaging the younger generation in meaningful social work, providing them with a sense of purpose and a meaningful life. However, Dr. Sharma emphasizes that this work must be voluntary and not forced upon individuals.
As India faces challenges in areas like elderly care, education, and healthcare access, the Vishwa Jagriti Mission's efforts highlight the intersection of spirituality and civic engagement, which quietly influences the country's social fabric. With their continued dedication to serve the community, VJM sets an example for others to follow, demonstrating how faith-based organizations can contribute to the betterment of society.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
