At Kanyakumari - a unique symbol of unity and purity - is the Memorial of Swami Vivekananda, another symbol of the united aspiration of Nation. In the Memorial, there is a happy and harmonious blend of all the architectural beauty of the country. It is a symbol of unity because the whole nation wished, worked and contributed for it. Person from all states participated in its inauguration.
"An aggregate or a congregation of men does not make a nation, nor do the geographical area and duration of time qualify a society to be known as a nation. A government formed on such a basis can be called a state, but not a nation. It is common goal or mission that makes a nation. All the constituents strive collectively for something noble. Service with spiritual orientation results in man-making which invariably and inseparably connected with nation building." It is the core of all the thoughts behind Vivekananda Kendra.
Second Phase of Vivekananda Rock Memorial was parallel when Rock Memorial was taking shape. As Eknathji used to say "To put up a Cement and Concrete structure is not the work for which I am born, I am to erect a living and dynamic monument which will be worthy of Swami Vivekananda and which will be capable of bringing into fruition his grand vision of future India."
Shri V. V. Giri paying homage to the memory of Swami Vivekananda by placing flowers at the feet of Swamiji's statue and making obeisance.
Thereafter, the rashtrapati visited the Dhyana Mandapam, Steppin on its hightly polished floor, his eyes fell on the Pranava Peetham (a decorated altar with aum, engraved in mirror-glass installed on it). He appreciated the superb workmanship displayed by artisans in teh carvings on the altar-pedestal. He also welcomed the choice of aum as an object of meditation. After spending about 15 minutes on teh Rock admiring the exquisite pieces of traditional Indian architecture, the Rashtrapati returned by helicopter to the Mainland.