The Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Center of New York was founded in 1933 by Swami Nikhilananda and in 1939 moved to its present site in New York City's distinguished "Carnegie Hill Historic District". In 1952 the Chapel was renovated and a balcony was added, to accommodate the Center's growing congregation.
The Center observed its 50th Anniversary in 1983 with several Special Services. Participating in these services were Swamis of the Ramakrishna Order, eminent spiritual leaders of New York, academicians and the Consul General of India. In an article about this celebration published by The New York Times, the religion editor wrote: "Swamis and scholars yesterday hailed a Hindu society that has brought the insights and practices of the Indian religion to the East Side of Manhattan for a half century....Those teachings have made an increasing impact on Americans in the last two decades as more people turn to the East for religious guidance and instruction." (The New York Times, April 25, 1983).