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."
The Rashtrapati, accompained by Shri M. karunanidhi, the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, entering the Sabha mandapam.
The Rashtrapati went first the Shripada Mandapam and made floral offerings at the Shripadam. After going round the Shripadam he moved towards teh Vivekananda Mandapam. Ascending the steps, he reached the carved teakwook doors of its majestic entrance.
In the accompaniment of the Nadaswaram music and recitation of the customary mantras, the Rashtrapati applied the 'Prasadams' (Ssandal paste) specially received from teh holy shrines in Puri, Dwaraka, Bradinath, Rameshwaram and Kanyakumari on the closed portal of the Mandapam and pushed it open, signifying the opeing of the Memorial.
As soon as teh massive doors were thrown open the imposing 71/2' bronze statue of Swami Vivekananda gripped the attention of every one. Reaching near the statue, teh Rashtrapati bowed before it. Placing teh Prasadams on the statuepedestal, he lit a Kuthuvilakku (oil lamp).