April 18, 2014: Sukabrahma Ashram, situated on the banks of Swarnamukhi River on the outskirts of Srikalahasti temple town, is a treat for spirituality seekers.

Sukabrahma Ashram, founded by Sri Vidyaprakasananda Giri Swami in 1950, was inaugurated by his guru, Sri Malayala Swami, the founder of the renowned Vyasashram. During the last 64 years, the ashram has been promoting the message of Mahatma Gandhi - service to mankind is service to God. The ashram has been spruced up for the 101st birth anniversary of Vidyaprakasananda Giri, which will commence on Monday. Famed spiritual personalities from all over India and abroad are expected to visit Srikalahasti during the next five days.

During the last 64 years, the Ashram has been transformed into a centre of spiritual learning, having completed 108 Jnana Yagnas of Bhagavad Gita and as many as 58 symposiums on the sacred text. During his life time, Vidyaprakasananda (1913-1998) maintained a special bond with Sri Satya Saibaba of Puttaparthi. At the fag end of his life, the Swamiji became totally blind, but his discourses were popular all over the country.

The Swamiji was instrumental in starting the first Government Degree College in Srikalahasti, by making huge donations. He also started the first Mahila Degree and Junior College in the town. On behalf of the ashram, the Baktha Kannappa Eye Hospital was established on the premises, so far having performed over one lakh eye operations for the poor all over South India.

At present, the Dhyan Mandir, which came up on the tomb of the Swamiji, continues to attract thousands of his disciples for meditation. From Monday till April 18, the ashram will witness a myriad of spiritual activities.