Vedic Vidya Kendra Retreat Center / Shanmugam AssociatesSave this picture! Denis AmirtharajArchitects: Shanmugam AssociatesAreaArea of this architecture projectArea:175000 ftYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2024 PhotographsPhotographs:Denis Amirtharaj Lead Architects: A Shanmugam, Raja Krishnan D, Santhosh Shanmugam More SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. Vedic Vidya Kendra is one of a kind integrated Vedic spiritual center located in Puducherry. The vision of Arya Samaj Society, Chennai was to create an integrated spiritual center that has its founding principles around philosophical teachings of Swami Dayanand Saraswati Ji and Vedic learnings. The Kendra Vedic offers a retreat in the short and long term by providing a platform for inner calling and reflection.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!The architecture has been created with earthy and raw character in construction, offers meditative spaces, integrates with the exterior green environment, and invokes a spiritual calmness across Kendra. Subsequently, the programs evolved comprised of the following:Gurukul: Connecting back to the traditional Indian educational method of Guru (teacher) - Sishya (Student), the Gurukul here is akin to residential monasteries exhibiting intellectual and spiritual growth. Its layout promotes interaction, with semi-open spaces that blur boundaries between indoors and outdoors, encouraging fluidity and contemplation.Vanaprastha: A sanctuary for spiritual retreat, this zone is designed to evoke introspection and peace. The interplay of natural light and shadow here is intentional, guiding occupants into deeper contemplation. With about 52 Kutir (Cottages) each designed to augment one's spiritual purpose, the Vanaprastha is an abode for 50-75 aged ashramites.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!CENTRAL COURT Bhojanalaya: Saatvik Bhojan (Food) is prepared in the central kitchen and served in Bhojanayalaya where residents are encouraged to sit on the floor and eat. Plate/ hand washing for residents, food disposal, and storage are all deftly planned for.Yagnashaala: The heart of the entire campus is the Yangashalla where daily Yagna (Fire) is performed amidst reverberations of Vedic chants. Positioned along the sacred axis and facing true east of the entire campus in the open circumambulatory courtyard, the Yagnashalla is a symbol of unity and communal harmony. The courtyard is a modern interpretation of traditional Indian spatial planning, encouraging natural ventilation, social interaction, and quiet reflection. Yoga is conducted daily in the courtyard.Save this picture!Administrative facilities are positioned right at entry comprising the reception, Sahitya Nidhi (library), and Vidya Niketan (learning centers) with their respective private gardens. The Sabha Mandap (multi-purpose hall) caters to discourses, cultural activities, and learning. A designated area for Jal Neti (Nasal Cleansing) located centrally, a meditation hall (Dhyaan Gruha), dormitories (Shivir Nivas) for visiting guests, and seva gruha (Service quarters) for residential support staff are some of the additional support features in the Kendra. These supporting functions, while remaining unobtrusive, allow other spaces to flourish and fulfill their purpose.Save this picture!Landscaping has been integrated within the overall planning of the Kendra. Meditative gardens across the property, herbal garden along the western walkway, private gardens adjoining the learning centers, traditional sports arenas dedicated for mallyudh and mallakhamb, reflexology pavers sprucing up senses, activated rooftop multi-sport arena, a 750m landscaped peripheral walkway and outdoor gym within the Vanasprastha catering to elderly are some highlights focussing around holistic development and wellbeing of its occupants. Vedic Vidya Kendra is designed to enhance the process of self-learning, discovery, well-being, and growth. The material, spaces, and every form have been designed to embody values of education, spirituality, and community.Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessAbout this officeShanmugam AssociatesOfficePublished on February 04, 2025Cite: "Vedic Vidya Kendra Retreat Center / Shanmugam Associates" 04 Feb 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1026219/vedic-vidya-kendra-retreat-center-shanmugam-associates&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream