Mohula Sub-Centre
The Mohula subcenter of Sargachi Ashram was the birthplace of the Ramakrishna Mission’s first branch center, founded by Swami Akhandananda in 1897 during famine relief work in Murshidabad. It began as a temporary orphanage in a thatched hut at Mahula village before the Ashram later shifted to Shibnagar and finally to Sargachi in 1913.
The original structure has now been renovated. The premises now host a local women's self-help group called Sargachi Darshan Swayambhar Gosthi, which is supported by the Sargachi Ashrama.
Origins at Mahula (1897–1899)
The Mohula subcenter was established on 31 August 1897 by Swami Akhandananda, a direct disciple of Sri Ramakrishna. This period was marked by a severe famine in Murshidabad, which prompted Akhandananda to take action by providing relief to those affected. He rescued orphaned children and started an orphanage in a humble thatched hut at Mahula village. This initiative was significant as it became the first Ashrama in the Ramakrishna Order, reflecting Swami Vivekananda’s principle that "Service to man is service to God."
Transition to Shibnagar (1899–1913)
After spending two years at Mahula, Swami Akhandananda sought a more permanent location for the Ashram. Madhusundari Barman, a wealthy landowner, generously donated land and buildings at Shibnagar. From 1900 onwards, the Ashram began operating lower-primary and night schools, along with offering industrial training in skills such as weaving, sewing, and carpentry. The Ashram remained at Shibnagar for fourteen years, during which it expanded its educational and vocational services to better serve the community.
Move to Sargachi (1913 onwards)
In March 1913, the Ashram moved to its current location at Sargachi. The Mohula subcenter is remembered as the starting point of this journey, where the initial famine relief efforts gradually transformed into organized and sustained service activities. This move marked the beginning of a more permanent and structured phase for the Ramakrishna Mission’s work in the region.
Importance of Mohula Subcenter
The Mohula subcenter holds historical importance as the first orphanage established by the Ramakrishna Mission. It symbolizes Swami Akhandananda’s vision of worshiping God through serving the poor and needy.
