Nearly 300 Torontonians were the first in Canada to witness the journey of a master brought to life through film on the evening of May 8, 2015 at York Cinemas in Richmond Hill. Sold out weeks in advance, the Canadian premiere of the motion picture On A Quest hosted by Chinmaya Mission Toronto was an event charged with inspiration, devotion, and a story that reached even the unfamiliar in their quest for meaning and happiness.

 

The day of the premiere, which auspiciously coincided with Swami Chinmayanada’s birthday (May 8th, 1916), also kicked off year-long birth centenary celebrations in Toronto and around the world. On the same morning in New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi released a commemorative coin in honour of Swami Chinmayananda. Mr. Modi fondly shared that Swami Chinmayananda was a “visionary who saw the need to inculcate India's great culture and spiritual traditions through the English medium”, and that his "life is an inspiration for others.”

 

Various dignitaries and special guests were in attendance at the movie premiere, including the Consul General of India in Toronto, Mr. Akhilesh Mishra, who shared, “I was so happy, and so delighted to witness and be reminded of the great life and inspiring message of Swami Chinmayananda.” Special guest Swami Kripamayananda, monk of the Ramakrishna Order and spiritual head of the Vedanta Society of Toronto also commented, “The movie was nicely done, showing the life of a monk in such an interesting way.” 

 

On A Quest was produced by the creative wing of Chinmaya Mission, Chinmaya Creations. To ensure the quality of the film, they enlisted the aid of established Director, R.S. Prasanna and cinematographer, Siddhartha Nuni who has previously worked on Life of Pi and Lucia. The film showcases a volunteer cast featuring Sandeep Hebbar, Rajeev Venkat, Thota Tharani and Karthikeya. 

 

Much like the work of Swami Chinmayananda, the event brought together individuals from various parts of the community including professors from several universities, youth leaders as well as members from various spiritual institutions across the city. Many stayed back after the film to share their reflections and high praise for the movie. “The film was beautifully done. It is a great testimony to the importance of skepticism,” said Reid Locklin, Associate Professor, St. Michael’s College, University of Toronto.  Many commented on the inspirational scenes and dialogues from the movie that connected with them, one of the most popular being, “start walking and the path will become clear.”

Reference: http://southasiandaily.com/community/canadian-tour-of-movie-on-a-quest-kicks-off-in-toronto-celebrating-the-life-of-a-visionary/