Jayadev Unnithan – An Institution Inspired by the Life and Teachings of Sree Narayana Guru

Sree Narayana Mission (Singapore) – An Institution Inspired by the Life and Teachings of Sree Narayana Guru

Jayadev Unnithan

They came with just their shirts on their back and with a heart full of hope to make life better for kin in faraway places.

Difficult times loomed, but they pressed on inspired by the teachings of a venerable saint from their native place.

The end of World War II changed the political and economic landscape worldwide. In Singapore people were picking themselves up to rebuild lives after the ravages of the war. Our Pioneers were inspired by the teachings of the revered saint Sree Narayana Guru (1856 to 1928) who had emancipated the oppressed in Kerala. Revered Sree Narayana Guru instilled in the masses a sense of self-worth and values to live by in the Atmopadesa Satakam (One Hundred Verses in Self Instruction).

‘What is dear to another- that should spell endearment to me also. This is the correct policy. Therefore, what one does for his own good should be for the benefit of others.’

Atmopadesa Satakam Verse 22

Staying true to the Revered Guru’s teachings, our pioneers organised themselves to form a body that will promote social and welfare programs to uplift Singapore society. SNM was registered as a Society in 1948, and its programmes were open to all regardless of race, language or religion which parallels the Revered Guru’s teachings of embracing universal brotherhood. They lived by the principle that any action performed must be for the betterment of fellow men and society as a whole.

‘A compassionate man without any vested interest works both day and night for the welfare of others. On the other hand, a selfish man, desirous of his own good, toils day and night and comes again and again to frustration’.

Atmopadesa Satakam, Verse 23

SNM has stayed true to the principles of the teachings of the Revered Guru in providing selfless service to society. This verse sets the direction and sustains the drive to serve. Inspired by this, SNM has executed its services with full dedication and commitment, focusing fully on the interests of its beneficiaries.

SNM continued to serve the community in Singapore, enlarging the scope of services offered and reaching out to many. The expanded services included a Nursing Home, a welfare home for male destitute persons who require psychiatric care, and Senior Care Centres, and more recently for Dementia care. The outreach to the public at large was through programmes like meals-on- wheels, Helping Hands, educational bursaries and financial assistance.