Vivekananda Kendra Institute Of Culture

VKIC conducts participatory research to study communities without adopting Western anthropological models. It organises year-long seminars, like 'Traditional Customs: Change and Continuity,' where community scholars present papers, engaging with elders to reflect the community's vibrant practices, interpretations, and values. Through these interactions, it identifies customs that need change and those essential to community identity. This approach boosts community confidence in its culture and progress. This participatory research has been undertaken for 26 communities, fostering a deeper understanding of their heritage and traditions.

VKIC engages in comprehensive documentation, preserving the oral traditions, rituals, customs, and beliefs of communities without written records. It has published numerous books, CDs, and monographs, ensuring the conservation of cultural heritage and traditional knowledge for future generations.

VKIC acknowledges and celebrates individuals dedicated to preserving community cultures. These committed individuals, though well-organised internally, may face challenges from exclusive ideologies. VKIC annually honours these culture protectors on its Foundation Day, recognizing their vital work and sharing their contributions with the public.

VKIC's efforts have highlighted commonalities among communities, fostering stronger inter-community bonds. Communities readily unite on VKIC's platform to collaboratively work towards regional development, promoting unity and cooperation.

VKIC serves as an intellectual hub, focusing on research and shaping significant ideas that influence diverse aspects of life. It has contributed intellectually to topics such as the significance of Sattra, land policies in Assam, Indigenous Prayer Movements in Arunachal Pradesh, and 'Development through Culture.' These inputs from VKIC have been adopted at various levels, including Government, institutions, and society, making it a valuable source of intellectual insight and guidance.

VKIC established the Samskriti Anveshak Forum in 1998, serving as an interdisciplinary platform for the exchange and exploration of ideas related to culture. This forum has hosted 116 talks, including series on specific topics, addressing a wide range of social, cultural, religious, literary, and environmental issues. It plays a pivotal role in fostering a deeper understanding of matters that influence or enhance our cultural heritage.