On 8th November 2025, the Brahma Kumaris, Kolkata Museum marked a historic milestone with the inauguration of the newly constructed Global Enlightenment Retreat Centre (GERC) in Kolkata. The inauguration symbolized a major step forward in the organization’s continuing mission to promote peace, unity, and spiritual empowerment across India and beyond.
To commemorate this auspicious occasion, the Brahma Kumaris also launched a nationwide initiative — “Year of Unity & Trust” — dedicated to nurturing harmony, faith, and collective strength among individuals and communities.
Adding to the event’s spiritual significance, a Bengali meditation book titled “51 Steps to Soulful Awakening” was unveiled, along with its Hindi and English editions. The publication presents a series of daily reflective meditations inspired by the Brahma Kumaris’ teachings, guiding readers toward inner peace, healing, and self-realization.
The grand ceremony was attended by several eminent dignitaries, including:
Mr. Justice Biswaroop Chowdhury, Hon’ble Judge, Calcutta High Court
Shri Dilip Mondal, Hon’ble Minister of State for Transport, Government of West Bengal
Rajyogini BK Jayanti, Additional Chief of Brahma Kumaris and Director of the Brahma Kumaris, London
Rajyogi BK Mruthyunjaya, Additional Secretary General, Brahma Kumaris, Mount Abu
Shri Dushyant Nariala, IAS, Principal Secretary, West Bengal Disaster Management & Civil Defence Department
Shri Virendra, Former DGP, West Bengal & Current Chief Commissioner of RTI
Shri Sushil Mohta, Owner, Merlin Group
Smt. Smita Pandey, IAS, Secretary, Public Enterprises & Industry Reconstruction Department, Government of West Bengal
BK Kanan, Zonal Incharge, Brahma Kumaris Eastern Zone
Mr. Justice Biswaroop Chowdhury, Hon’ble Judge, Calcutta High Court, praised the initiative and noted that in today’s world, filled with stress and conflict, such a spiritual retreat centre serves as a true blessing for society.
Shri Dilip Mondal, Hon’ble Minister of State for Transport, Government of West Bengal, expressed his admiration for the Brahma Kumaris’ tireless efforts in fostering moral and spiritual upliftment. He stated, “The establishment of the Global Enlightenment Retreat Centre is a matter of pride for West Bengal. At a time when the world is searching for peace and direction, this Centre will guide people towards inner stability, unity, and ethical living.”
Rajyogini BK Jayanti, Additional Chief of the Brahma Kumaris, emphasized the importance of reconnecting with the Supreme Source to rediscover unity and divinity. She remarked, “True unity begins when we reconnect with the Supreme Source and realize our inner divinity. This Centre will serve as a sanctuary of enlightenment, inspiring unity and positive transformation in society.”
Rajyogi BK Mruthyunjaya, Additional Secretary General of the Brahma Kumaris, elaborated on the Centre’s vision: “The Global Enlightenment Retreat Centre is designed as a serene and holistic space for value-based leadership training, experiential workshops, silence retreats, and meditation sessions. Through spiritual education and reflective practices, the Centre will help participants integrate peace and positivity into their lives.”
Expressing gratitude, BK Kanan, Zonal Incharge of the Brahma Kumaris, Eastern Zone, extended heartfelt thanks to all dignitaries and guests for their gracious presence. She shared her hope that the Centre will become a haven for people from all walks of life — professionals, educators, youth, doctors, and homemakers — to rejuvenate their minds and rediscover balance, clarity, and inner strength.
The inauguration of the Global Enlightenment Retreat Centre (GERC) stands as a beacon of light and hope, reaffirming the Brahma Kumaris’ commitment to nurturing inner transformation as the foundation for global harmony and peace.
May this new Centre radiate peace, purity, and enlightenment, guiding souls toward a brighter, more united world.
