The Ramakrishna Mission is a Registered Society founded by Swami Vivekananda, chief disciple of Sri Ramakrishna, on May 1, 1897. When Swami Vivekananda attended the Parliament Religions of the World at Chicago in 1893, he was pioneer of the Indian religious leaders to visit USA and to teach Hinduism in the West. The Ramakrishna Mission carries on missionary and philanthropic work through the combined efforts of monastic members and householder disciples. The Mission, having its headquarters at Belur Math, near Kolkata, India, is a twin organization with the Ramakrishna Math (monastery / monastic order) as its constituent part. The Ramakrishna Mission emphasizes on service to others as KARMA YOGA, a concept found in the Gita as propounded by Bhagawan Sri Krishna which was a strong base in Vivekananda's teachings. It engages its monastic as well as house-holder disciples in humanitarian activities around the world. Vivekananda saw the same truth underlying in all religions and believed strongly in the equality of all. The Mission is dedicated to the service of humanity, regardless of caste, creed, color and nationality. All around the world the Ramakrishna Mission has 221 branch Centers which have been promoting interfaith relations giving equal honor to all the religions of the world. Its philanthropic activities include medical work, education as well as relief and emergency services during natural disasters. Thus referred to Swami Vivekananda -- “Work Is Worship” is the principal watchword of this organization. Vivekananda also wanted to popularize the coin “Atmano Mokshartham, Jagaddhitaya Cha” – one should strive for one’s own liberation along with the welfare of the society and the entire humankind.