Kalpataru Day

What is Kalpataru Day?

Kalpataru Day is a spiritual celebration observed on January 1st each year, primarily by followers of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, a revered 19th-century Indian mystic and saint. The day commemorates a profound mystical event that took place on January 1, 1886, when Ramakrishna, near the end of his life, blessed his disciples and granted spiritual experiences, revealing his divine nature. Named after “Kalpataru”, the mythical wish-fulfilling tree in Hindu mythology, the day is seen as one when spiritual aspirations are fulfilled through divine grace. It is celebrated with reverence, meditation, prayer, and devotional gatherings.

The history behind the Kalpataru Day celebration

The origin of Kalpataru Day lies in the final days of Sri Ramakrishna’s earthly life. Afflicted with throat cancer, he had been moved to a garden house in Cossipore (now in Kolkata, India) for care and rest. On January 1, 1886, as some of his close disciples and devotees were present in the garden, Ramakrishna—usually too ill to speak—unexpectedly stepped outside and engaged with them.

In a moment filled with spiritual power and compassion, he blessed his disciples, saying to some of them:
“Tumi Chaitanya hao” (May you be spiritually awakened).

Those present reported experiencing profound states of divine ecstasy, inner transformation, and spiritual awakening. This unique event—where Ramakrishna revealed his identity as the embodiment of the divine and granted spiritual boons—was likened to the Kalpataru, the tree in Hindu lore said to grant all desires. Since then, January 1st has been commemorated as Kalpataru Day, symbolizing the grace and boundless compassion of the guru.

The event has been recorded in detail by disciples such as Swami Saradananda, and it holds special significance in the Ramakrishna Order.

How is Kalpataru Day Celebrated?

Kalpataru Day is celebrated with deep devotion, quiet reflection, and communal reverence, especially within the Ramakrishna Math and Mission and among devotees of Sri Ramakrishna, Holy Mother Sarada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda.

Key observances include:

• Special worship and puja: Devotees gather at temples and ashrams for special rituals dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna.
• Reading of the Kalpataru incident: Passages describing the historic event at Cossipore are read aloud to honor the moment and inspire reflection.
• Bhajans and devotional singing: Spiritual songs and chants are performed, creating a meditative and uplifting atmosphere.
• Lectures and discourses: Monks and scholars give talks on the significance of the day and the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna.
• Silent meditation and prayer: Many observe moments of deep silence to connect inwardly and seek divine blessings.
• Community meals (prasad): Devotees often share food blessed during the ceremonies.

The day is not about material wish-fulfillment, but rather a call to spiritual realization, divine communion, and self-transformation.

In which countries is Kalpataru Day celebrated?

Kalpataru Day is primarily observed in India, especially at:

• Belur Math (the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission near Kolkata)
• Cossipore Garden House (the site of the original event)
• Ramakrishna ashrams and centers throughout India

Internationally, it is also celebrated in:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Canada
• Australia
• Germany
• Japan
• South Africa
• Bangladesh and Sri Lanka

Ramakrishna Missions around the world host observances, often attended by both Indian diaspora and local spiritual seekers. These events often include live-streamed talks, making the experience accessible to a global audience.

Kalpataru Day remains a cherished spiritual event, reminding devotees of the transformative power of divine grace and the living legacy of Sri Ramakrishna.