Swami Prathamananda, popularly known as Preeti Maharaj, joined the Ramakrishna Order at its Karimganj center (in the state of Assam) in 1951. He was an initiated disciple of Swami Virajanandaji Maharaj and had sannyasa (formal vows of monk hood) from Swami Shankaranandaji Maharaj in 1961.

          He also served at Ramakrishna Mission Saradapitha and Ramakrishna Mission Sevapratishthan centers in West Bengal besides his joining center. He assumed the charge of Itanagar in the year 1978 and built the hospital literally and allegorically to its present state. He served the hospital for twenty three years.

         He was an adept in construction jobs. The rehabilitation projects of the Ramakrishna Mission that he carried out at Surat (Gujarat), Maner (Bihar), Panisagar (Tripura), Puligadda/Divi Seema (Andhra Pradesh) during 1970s had earned him accolades and are being appreciated by many even now. The Swami was also a good singer and on many a occasion performed in congregations and on stages.

         He was a person of large heart and had empathy for others. He was affectionate, jovial, hard working by nature. He endeared himself to all who came in contact with him.       

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