Celebration of 130 years of Vedanta in Detroit - A Report
On Sunday, September 14, 2025, the Ramakrishna Ashram in Warren hosted a special Satsang to commemorate 130 years of Vedanta in Detroit. The event was graced by five revered Swamijis from across North America:
Revered Swami Sarvadevananda – Vedanta Society of Southern California
Revered Swami Prapannananda – Vedanta Society of Sacramento
Revered Swami Kripamayananda – Vedanta Society of Toronto
Revered Swami Ishatmananda – Vedanta Society of Chicago
Revered Swami Sarvapriyananda – Vedanta Society of New York
Several other dignitaries were also in attendance. Over 500 local devotees participated in this spiritually enriching event, attentively listening to the inspiring discourses delivered by the Swamijis. During their talks, the Swamijis fondly remembered Sister Christine (Christina Greenstidel) — a Detroit native, close disciple and friend of Swami Vivekananda. Sister Christine traveled to India and dedicated her life to serving as a teacher and social worker in Kolkata, leaving a lasting impact on Indian society.
A significant highlight of the event was the unveiling of a visionary expansion plan — the transformation of the Ramakrishna Ashram in Warren into a Vedanta Cultural Center. This project represents a vital step forward in serving the spiritual needs of the community and preserving the legacy of Vedanta in Detroit for future generations.
Vision for the Future: Vedanta Cultural Center
The proposed development includes a two-storey building in the Ashram complex in Warren, MI consisting of:

• First Floor (approx. 7,500+ sq. ft.): A community hall, bookstore, and library
• Second Floor (approx. 6,400+ sq. ft.): Shrine, guest rooms, and office space
• The existing Ashram building will be converted into a spacious dining hall to better serve the growing number of devotees during festivals and special events

However, bringing this vision to life will require significant financial resources. The Swamijis made an earnest and heartfelt appeal to all attendees — and to all devotees and well-wishers — to consider contributing generously to support this noble endeavor.
For a tax deductible donation, devotees can donate to Vivekananda Vedanta Society of Chicago using this link. Please mention "Donation for Ramakrishna Ashram, Warren, MI" in the memo while making the donation.

At the conclusion of the event, boxed Bhog Prasad dinner was lovingly served to all attendees, marking a sweet and satisfying end to a spiritually uplifting evening.




To see photos from the event, please click here . A video of the event recorded by a devotee is available in YouTube. Please click here to watch it.