Sri Ramakrishna Ashram, Melaka

Sri Ramakrishna Ashram, Melaka was founded by Dr. Rama in 1964. His objectives were to spread the teachings of Vedanta, the teachings and the life of Bhagawan Sri Ramakrishna. The humble beginnings of this noble institution was from the simple home of a member in Limbongan, in Melaka town, Melaka. It was just a small wooden house of two rooms, a visiting area, a dining space and a kitchen. However, this simple home housed Bhagwan’s devotees who came to visit the Ashram.

This was the home of the Sri R. Govindasamy who became the President of the Sri Ramakrishna Ashram. He was the main force and spiritual leader for the followers of Bhagwan Ramakrishna.

Sri R. Govindasamy a Tamil School teacher, was the prime mover and force behind the Ashram. He started to spread the teachings of Bhagwan throughout the country. Slowly the membership too swelled. Officially there were 1500 members but his followers were a few hundred thousands. Sri R. Govindasamy spread the teachings of Bhagawan and also about the Vedanta’s through his bhajans and house poojas known as Vigraha Abshega Arathanai. These bhajans and this special pooja and with his melodious voice and loving nature he attracted devotees from all walks of life. In this manner the Sri Ramakrishna Ashram grew in name, status and also in numbers.

From 1964 to 1991 the Sri Ramakrishna Ashram had its work all done from this simple home in Limbongan. In 1991, Sri R. Govindasamy wanted to expand the Sri Ramakrishna Ashram’s works from just a religious institution to a charitable organization. His vision was to set up a home for orphans, poor and needy children. With this in mind he established a home at 451, Jalan Tengkera Melaka with the intention to house orphans, children from broken homes, and also those in need of religious guidance. He initially rented this bungalow for a nominal rental of RM1 from the National Land Finance Cooperative Society. In 1992, through his undying efforts and his leadership and most of all the undying love and support from his followers, the building was bought for a sum of RM620,000. The purchase was completed in May 1995 and the funds were raised through donations, charity shows and other religious programme. Today, the double storey bungalow at 451, Jalan Tengkera stands as a clear testimony to the undying efforts of Sri R. Govindasamy. From a humble beginning of 12 children, the Sri Ramakrishnan Ashram is the home of 45 boys of various age groups. For his work and undying effort, he was later called Sri La Sri Paramhamsa Dhasar.