From November 17–21, 2024, an impactful Pracar tour was conducted across the Boston and Philadelphia regions of the New York Sector, including visits to Long Island University, Old Westbury State College, Manhattan Vill University, and key locations in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The tour, led by four Acaryas, focused on extending Ananda Marga’s message, fostering relationships with community leaders, and preparing for the 2026 Dharma Maha Sammellan (DMS).
Engaging Community Leaders and Businesses
In Long Island, New York, meetings were held with renowned businessmen and community leaders, Shrii Vimal Goyal and Deepak Bansal, to discuss organizing the 2026 DMS. During a three-hour meeting, the team explored the possibility of using Levitol Hall for future programs and shared the vision of Ananda Marga’s health, wellness, and service initiatives. The meeting was coordinated by Ac. Kovid Brahmacarii and Ac. Abhiramananda Avadhuta, leaving a strong impression and establishing meaningful connections.
Similarly, the team met with Shrii Naveen Shah of NEVIKA Group Companies, Hilton Hotel, and other businesses in Long Island. A meditation session with his family and children inspired Shrii Shah to support Ananda Marga’s projects, including the development of Ananda Kalpataru in Connecticut and fundraising efforts.
In New Jersey, the team visited Indian Federation Association Chairman Shrii Ankur Bedh and construction leader Shrinad Reddy, who showcased their project and discussed future collaborations. The meeting concluded with a meditation workshop, Kiirtana led by Dada Kovid and Didi Ananda Kalyanmitra, and a vegetarian dinner hosted by their team.
Reaching Educational Institutions
The tour also prioritized outreach to educational institutions. Meetings with students, faculty, and administrators at Long Island University and Old Westbury State College allowed the team to introduce Ananda Marga’s mission and practices. At Old Westbury, over 200 people attended a chapel session where meditation, yoga, and the Ananda Marga philosophy were shared with students and Christian pastors. These efforts created new sympathizers and built awareness within the academic community.
Expanding Outreach and Creating Sympathizers
The team introduced Ananda Marga to the Queens Chamber of Commerce, engaging with its president and employees to foster future collaborations. By the conclusion of the tour, the team had reached over 300 people, creating new sympathizers and strengthening ties with diverse sections of society.
The Pracar tour wrapped up with a visit to Ananda Vrati in Pennsylvania for the RDS during Thanksgiving. Thanks to the efforts of all coordinators, this tour laid a strong foundation for future events, including the 2026 DMS, while spreading Ananda Marga’s message of self-realization and service across the region.