Sri Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya College of Arts and Science, Tamil Nadu

Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya, located in Coimbatore, is a branch of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math, Howrah, West Bengal. Situated in a serene environment spanning nearly 300 acres, the institution has grown from humble beginnings to become a vast educational and spiritual center with around twenty wings. The foundation of the Vidyalaya was laid by Dr. T S Avinashilingam in 1930, with a nominal investment of Rs. 5.75 and just one harijan boy on its roll. Dr. T S Avinashilingam's inspiration for embarking on this ambitious venture came from his encounter with Swami Shivananda, a direct disciple of Bhagavan Sri Ramakrishna, whose teachings were also followed by Swami Vivekananda. The idea of the paramount importance of education for the revival of India, absorbed by Swami Shivananda from Swami Vivekananda, deeply resonated with Dr. Avinashilingam. He described Swami Shivananda's influence as a "sacred touch" that awakened in him the necessary strength and vision for his future mission in the field of education. In 1934, Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, laid the foundation stone of the Vidyalaya and expressed his wish that the students would be patriotic followers of truth. In the same year, the Vidyalaya became affiliated with the Ramakrishna Mission, further solidifying its commitment to the ideals and values propagated by the mission. The serene location of the Vidyalaya, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, provides an ideal setting for education and spiritual development. The expansive campus offers a conducive environment for learning, with ample space for academic facilities, sports activities, and other co-curricular pursuits. The Vidyalaya aims to provide holistic education, nurturing the intellectual, physical, and moral growth of its students. Over the years, Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya has grown and diversified its educational offerings. Today, it encompasses various wings dedicated to different areas of education, including arts, science, engineering, management, and teacher training. The institution continues to uphold the principles of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, promoting a blend of academic excellence, character development, and spiritual values. In conclusion, Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya in Coimbatore stands as a prominent educational institution with a rich history and a commitment to holistic development. The vision of its founder, Dr. T S Avinashilingam, inspired by the teachings of Swami Vivekananda and Swami Shivananda, continues to guide the Vidyalaya in its pursuit of educational excellence and moral upliftment.