Following the colossal damage after the floods in Ladakh on August 5, The Art of Living began trauma relief efforts in the district. Ladakh witnessed a cloudburst and flash floods and mudslides, leaving 197 dead, including 10 army personnel.
The first step has been to supply water filters and relief material to 1000 affected families in Leh.
In addition Mr. Rajendra Dhawan, trustee, Sri Sri Rural Development Program, and Mr. Damodaran, psychologist and trauma expert, have begun conducting trauma relief workshops in two camps (Project Himank camp and Gompa Gatsal in Choglamsar near Leh). Over 150 people have benefitted from the workshop.
Mr. Dhawan and Mr. Damodaran met Hon. N.N. Vohra, Governor, Jammu and Kashmir at the Project Himank camp. Mr. Damodaran explained the effects of the Breath-Water-Sound workshops on trauma victims and shared experiences of tsunami victims. While appreciating the efforts of The Art of Living, the Governor invited Sri Sri to meet the separatist leaders and break the deadlock.
Future plans
In order to reach out to more people in Ladakh, The Art of Living team will be training residents to conduct Breath-water-Sound workshops. A Youth Leadership Training Program will also be held for 40-50 youth.
