Indian spirituality is witnessing renewed global resonance, reflecting the depth of India’s ancient spiritual heritage, Sanatan culture and civilisational unity. In this spirit, the grand event “Char Dham Darshan – Yangon 2025” was successfully organised on December 13 and 14 at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), functioning under the Embassy of India in Yangon. The programme was jointly hosted by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre and India Samaj, Myanmar.

Through this unique spiritual initiative, members of the Hindu community in Myanmar, the Indian diaspora and local well-wishers were offered a rare opportunity to experience the divine essence of India’s sacred Char Dham — Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri and Rameswaram — within a single premises. The spiritual significance of Bodh Gaya was also highlighted as part of the exhibition.

The event was formally inaugurated by H.E. Ambassador of India to Myanmar, Abhay Thakur, along with his wife Dr. Surabhi Thakur, in the presence of Deputy Ambassador Ashish Sharma, senior community leaders, distinguished guests and a large gathering of devotees.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Thakur said,

“‘Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah’ reflects India’s life philosophy — one that seeks the welfare of all humanity. Initiatives like these further strengthen the cultural and civilisational bonds between India and Myanmar.”

The role of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre was particularly noteworthy in presenting India’s spiritual traditions, cultural heritage and soft-power diplomacy in a meaningful and impactful manner. The event was conceptualised and led by Dr. Sheetal Palbabu, President of India Samaj, Myanmar, and witnessed wide participation from the Indian community.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ashish Kandwe, Director of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Yangon, stated,

“The Char Dham represent the complete spiritual journey of Indian consciousness. This event seeks to manifest India’s spiritual wholeness on Myanmar’s soil.”

On the first day alone, nearly 600 devotees participated in the Char Dham Darshan. Over the two-day programme, an estimated 2,000 to 2,500 devotees and visitors experienced the spiritual exhibition. The event also featured yoga demonstrations, aarti, prasad distribution and a brief cultural programme, infusing the atmosphere with devotion and spiritual energy.

Overall, “Char Dham Darshan – Yangon 2025” emerged as a powerful symbol of faith, unity and cultural consciousness among the Indian community in Myanmar, while further elevating the historic and cultural relationship between India and Myanmar.