Walking Towards Hope, Arvi, Maharashtra

4 kilometers from Dhamangaon Rly - a small town located in Amravati District, Maharashtra, lies Arvi - a tribal village (with a population of 598) where hunting is not only a pastime but also a means of survival.

While consumption of local arrack (produced in the village) from the age of 2 is permissible, young girls are married off at the age of 12 or 13 and most children never get a chance to attend school, despite being enrolled in government schools.

Most members of this tribe are illiterate with some having possession over 2 or 3 acres of land, given to them by the government. Despite which, there’s incessant unemployment amongst the youth and severe alcoholism amid men and women of almost every age.

The constant effort and determination of nine Art of Living volunteers not only got them access to the chief of the village (otherwise distant and isolated), but also got his permission to conduct a Part I course in the village, which the chief himself sat for and thoroughly enjoyed.

Keeping in mind the need to encourage hygiene and education in the village, the Art of Living volunteers are currently in the process of organizing more courses in the village and bringing the knowledge to those who are in dire need of it.

Testimonials

M.,
age 26
“I had decided to go back to my anti-depressants before this (The Art of Living) course, but now I don’t need them. I will practice these techniques every single day for the rest of my life. I only hope other people are lucky enough to take this course. It has given me more help than I could have ever imagined possible. Thank you.”

Course participant

“I’ve been suffering from a loss of concentration, weak memory and extreme anger. Now I feel as if something heavy has been lifted from my back.”

Course Participant

“I found that this training of breathing is so useful and its benefit shows when I do it. I feel that my heart is stronger and younger. When I can’t sleep I just do the breathing and I feel energy in all parts of my body.”

Dr. Venus

“I feel peace with myself and have less stress. I think if I continue with the practice, this feeling of peace will continue to grow.”

M. Ali Bankat

"Before this experience, I was sad, depressed and starting to lose hope because of the situation here in Iraq. Now, after only four days, I feel confident in myself – happier, have hopes and dreams again and I feel that life is so beautiful. I have started to love everyone and physically I have much more energy and am able to do more things. I want to thank you very much for helping all of us feel better.”