“Service is Sadhana, Humanity is Dharma.” — Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswati Ji

In a grand ceremony held at the prestigious National Library Auditorium in Kolkata, Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswati Ji, President of Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, and a global ambassador for Mother Ganga and humanity, was honored with the 40th Vivekananda Seva Samman 2026.

This distinguished award recognizes his extraordinary contributions to the preservation of Indian culture and Sanatan heritage, environmental protection, humanitarian service, the promotion of universal values, and the spread of spiritual awareness across the globe.

The ceremony was presided over by renowned industrialist and philanthropist Shri Radheshyam Goenka Ji.

The occasion was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri Dilip Ghosh Ji, Hon’ble Minister for Panchayat, Rural Development, Agriculture and Animal Resources Development, Government of West Bengal; distinguished tax consultant Shri Sajjan Kumar Tulsyan Ji; social leader Shri Vinod Bagrodia Ji; and world-renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian Dr. Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati Ji.

Pujya Swamiji’s life stands as a living testament to the truth that spirituality is not confined to meditation and worship alone—it blossoms through compassion, selfless service, and dedication to humanity. His initiatives in Ganga conservation, environmental stewardship, women’s empowerment, youth leadership, interfaith harmony, and global peace have inspired countless people worldwide.

Through the Divyang Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, thousands of differently-abled individuals have found renewed hope, dignity, and self-reliance. Swamiji has consistently reminded society that people should be recognized not by their limitations, but by the divinity and potential within them.

Dr. Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati Ji shared that Pujya Swamiji’s life beautifully demonstrates that true spirituality is expressed through compassionate action, and when the heart awakens with love and empathy, service naturally becomes a sacred path of spiritual practice.

This honor is not merely a recognition of an individual; it is a celebration of the timeless Sanatan vision that teaches:

• Service to Humanity is Service to the Divine.
• Humanity is the Highest Religion.
• Selfless Service is the Highest Form of Spiritual Practice.

This award serves as a beacon of inspiration for the entire Sanatan community, for every karmayogi walking the path of service, and for all those dedicated to uplifting humanity through love, compassion, and selfless action.