HOW LAND FOR ÁNANDANAGAR WAS OBTAINED

The story of how the land for Ánandanagar was obtained is a compelling chapter in the early history of Ananda Marga, filled with idealism, sacrifice, and mutual respect.

The journey started in 1955 when Ananda Marga Pracáraka Samgha (AMPS) was formally established by Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar, known to his followers as Bábá, in Jamalpur, Bihar. From the outset, Bábá's vision included not only spiritual but also humanitarian aims, anticipating schools, hospitals, and educational institutions that would serve people from around the world. As the organization's work grew rapidly, it became clear that a larger area was required to fulfill this vision.

In 1962, Bábá instructed his disciples to find an expansive piece of land near the spiritual and cultural heartland of Ráŕh. This area, historically known for its deep Tantric traditions, had a rich cultural heritage and was close to Muri Junction, making it a strategic choice for a central hub.

Following Bábá's guidance, three key figures from AMPS — Ácarya Pranay Kumar Chaṭṭopadhyay, Ácarya Amulyaratan Sarangi, and Acarya Kedarnath Sharma — met with Rajah Raghunandan Singhdeo of Gar Jaipur. Despite the Rajah's impoverished state and deteriorating palace, he was touched by the noble mission of Ananda Marga. Although he no longer had a kingdom in the traditional sense, he offered a large piece of land registered in his wife’s name, located in the area of Baglata. This land, spanning about 500 bighas, was rugged yet beautifully nestled between rivers and forests.

After a thorough examination and consultations with local lawyers, the land was formally gifted to Ananda Marga. Bábá personally named this land Ánandanagar, envisioning it as a place where humanitarian projects could flourish. He planned the layout himself, specifying where different buildings and institutions would be constructed. Bábá expressed profound gratitude to the Rajah's family, especially acknowledging the generosity of Rani Prafullakumari Devi in a heartfelt letter on 23 Falgun, 1370 (Bengali calendar).

Today, Ánandanagar stands as a testament to this shared vision, combining spirituality with service to humanity in the very spirit that Bábá had envisaged.