The Art of Living marked its 45th year with a grand cultural and spiritual evening at the Art of Living International Center, bringing together some of the state’s tallest legilslators, sportspersons, public figures along with thousands of devotees from all over the country. The celebrations formed part of a month-long series of events commemorating four and a half decades of service, spirituality, stress-relief initiatives, and humanitarian outreach led by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
“People from all sections of society, across religions and communities, come together here without barriers or divisions. Through decades of tireless work, Gurudev has taken India’s timeless message of spirituality, brotherhood, and human values to the world,” shared Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, Hon. Cabinet Minister for Health & Family Welfare.in Government of Karnataka.
He added, “His growing global popularity reflects the authenticity, transparency, and sincerity of his work. Gurudev has always led by example. He has not merely spoken about these values, but has lived them.”
Speaking about Gurudev’s universal message, Shri K. H. Muniyappa, Karnataka Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, shared, “The message of Gurudev has become a model for the state, the nation, and the whole world,” shared “Today, if society has to live with patience, peace, brotherhood, affection, and compassion, then institutions like these must grow on a much larger scale.”
He further added, “The future of our nation and the world is becoming very challenging. Therefore, the message of Gurudev has become even more relevant today. Considering humanity as one family and the world as one unit, Gurudev has dedicated himself to the welfare of society.”
Apart from the eminent leaders from Karnataka the evening witnessed the presence of Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose, Former Governor of West Bengal; Shri Rohan Ashok Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, IT, E&C and Printing & Stationery, Goa; and Shri Dhairyasheel Sambhajirao Mane, Member of Parliament from Maharashtra, among other dignitaries.
Shri U. T. Khader, Hon. Speaker of Karnataka Legislative Assembly, shared, “Some people become influential through their work, some become successful, but only a few possess the power to positively shape future generations and society. I believe that Param Poojya Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar possesses such extraordinary power.”
He further shared, “I have closely observed the activities of this institution for many years. From the time I served as a minister until today, I can proudly say that this organization has made one of the greatest contributions toward world peace. Especially this meditation center is a remarkable gift to society and the nation.”
The programme commenced with electrifying yet soothing bhajans that transformed the packed Dhyan Mandir into an atmosphere of celebration, devotion, and collective joy. As thousands gathered to mark 45 years of The Art of Living, the dignitaries reflected on Gurudev’s far-reaching humanitarian work that has touched over 1 billion lives across the world through initiatives in mental wellbeing, trauma relief, social harmony, youth leadership, education, rural transformation, river rejuvenation, reforestation and environmental conservation, and the revival of human values.
Gurudev in his address shared how The Art of Living, headquartered in Bengaluru, emerged with strong local support. Former state chief secretary Ved Brahma Gunju and Bangalore city administrator Narayan Shastri Narasimha Rao, joined hands with distinguished jurists Justice PN Bhagwati and Justice VR Krishna Iyer as founding trustees. Their diverse backgrounds – from deeply spiritual to openly atheistic – reflected the diverse and universal appeal of Gurudev’s vision.
A special felicitation ceremony was held in honour of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, where Padma Shri awardee and five-time Olympian Shri Sharath Kamal felicitated Gurudev for his lifelong contribution towards global peace and human values. Popular playback singer Swati Mishra enthralled the audience with soulful musical performances.
The highlight of the evening was Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s wisdom session and guided meditation, where thousands soaked in moments of deep silence and reflection.
The 45-year celebrations have unfolded over the past month through a wide range of spiritual, cultural, and service-oriented initiatives across Karnataka and other parts of the country.
The celebrations have also placed strong emphasis on strengthening ongoing service activities. Volunteers associated with The Art of Living have renewed their vows to work towards more educational access, river rejuvenation, natural farming awareness, mental health outreach, prison programmes, and community wellbeing initiatives, reflecting the organisation’s continued commitment to societal transformation through service and inner wellbeing.
