The Convention is organized under the inspiration and guidance of Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha, a renowned Spiritual Master from India, founder of Narayanashrama Tapovanam and Center for Inner Resources Development.

The first Convention was held at the University of California, Irvine, in 2017. The second one was convened at George Mason University, Virginia, in 2018. The third event took place at San Jose State University, San Jose, CA, in Silicon Valley. The broader participation in these conventions and the tremendous interest they invoked in the minds of the participants serves as an inspiration to the CIRD-NA team to continue this tradition of Knowledge festivity.

The word ‘Ashram’ (in Sanskrit) stands for an abode of learning or education. Established by Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha in 1963, “Narayanashrama Tapovanam” is located on the scenic slopes of the eastern hill of Pandavagiri, in Thrissur, Kerala. The Ashram is surrounded by dense thickets of coconut trees on the slopes of the hill, which roll down towards the green fields of paddy. The serene beauty of surrounding nature complements the peace and tranquility of the Ashram, which draws seekers and visitors alike to the place, to benefit from the company of a realized Sage, and seek his blessings and guidance on spiritual and personal matters. 

In Swamiji’s own words:
More than the theoretical knowledge of different subjects, education in our country always meant man-making — purification, fortification and transformation of personality in the holy association of the Teacher, so that the student would become fit to course victoriously through the vicissitudes of life and attain fulfillment. And Ashrams were the institutions imparting such education. The most important factor underlying the legendary greatness of ancient Bharat was these honored seats of learning – the Ashrams – where the saintly Teacher used to empower the students with lofty values and visions that would guide them throughout their life and make them worthy citizens.