| ID | 099930 |
| Title Proper | Ordinary organisation run by ordinary people |
| Other Title Information | a study of leadership in Vivekananda Kendra |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Beckerlegge, Gwilym |
| Publication | 2010. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | Vivekananda Kendra describes itself as a 'spiritually oriented service mission', extensively influenced by both Swami Vivekananda and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. As the name of the movement suggests, members of Vivekananda Kendra acknowledge their indebtedness to the inspiration of Vivekananda, a samnyasi. Vivekananda Kendra's organisation, however, is built around a lay leadership. Members emphasise this when explaining the values and goals of the Kendra, often consciously distinguishing between its model of leadership and the nature of its membership, and those of movements such as the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, where leadership is largely provided by samnyasis. This article explores the distinctive ethos of Vivekananda Kendra with particular reference to its lay leadership. The article draws on material gathered in a series of interviews with senior members of Vivekananda Kendra at the movement's headquarters at Kanyakumari in 2006 and 2008. |
| `In' analytical Note | Contemporary South Asia Vol. 18, No. 1; Mar 2010: p. 71 - 88 |
| Journal Source | Contemporary South Asia Vol. 18, No. 1; Mar 2010: p. 71 - 88 |
| Key Words | Vivekananda Kendra ; Modern Hindu Organisation ; Leadership |