Sri Sri’s tour of Jalna and Latur towns aimed at encouraging farmers to adopt chemical-free farming practices. This would answer many of the challenges that the agrarian communities are facing.
Sri Sri addressed over 12,000 farmers at the Azad Maidan in Jalna (Maharastra) on December 22 and urged them to save the cow, water, land, seed and the girl child. Later during satsang that evening, 55,000 people followed Sri Sri in an oath to prevent female feticide. “Use natural products as much as possible,” said Sri Sri and urged all to plant trees.
At a satsang in Latur village on December 21, Sri Sri encouraged people to adopt environmental-friendly farming practices. His message for the youth was to take an initiative in ending caste divides and racism.
To read the full text, log onto Wisdom Blog

Sri Sri was central to the opening ceremony for the largest and most diverse multifaith gathering of religious and spiritual communities in the world, The Parliament of the World’s Religions in Melbourne.
Sri Sri was a key speaker, urged people and communities of faith, spirit and goodwill to “Make a World of Difference” in the midst of the challenges facing the global community. “All religious leaders have to take on this role. We cannot lose sight of that one Divinity, which has created this beautiful diversity. Otherwise we won’t have a symphony, we will have a chaos. The world has witnessed so much chaos, now let’s focus on one conductor – GOD – Generator, Operator and Destroyer. Focus on one aspect, but play your instrument.”
To read the full text, log onto Wisdom Blog

Without failure is possible if you are able to use your intuition perfectly,” said Sri Sri, during an interaction with students of the Great Lakes Institute of Management in Chennai, –on November 26. “Both should act perfectly to achieve zero failure in innovation,” he said, adding that meditation would help an individual to get ahead despite failures. Sri Sri inaugurated the MILK (Meditation and Inspiration Center for Living and Kindness) on the campus. To read the full text, log onto Wisdom Blog

Sri Sri spoke about the spiritual and philosophical aspects of wealth at the Forbes launch of its first list of 100 richest people in India for its Indian edition. Sri Sri was part of a panel discussion which explored the purpose of wealth through economic and spiritual perspectives. He launched the Forbes edition as well. Incidentally, the Forbes Power list for 2009 named Sri Sri as the fifth most powerful person in India.

Honorable Minister-President of Baden-Wuerttemberg praised Sri Sri’s efforts to resolve conflict and bring peace at various fora. He said: “I am from a Christian country and have a vision to unite all religions and culture across the globe.” He paid a visit to the Art of Living International Center with a government delegation from Germany comprising the Ministers of the State for Finance, Economics and other parliament members.

Honorable Minister for Large and Medium Industries, Karnataka, Mr. Murugesh Rudrappa Nirani and President of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Mr. Crasta were also present.

While addressing the delegation, Sri Sri said, “India always stands for fostering the vision of a One World Family. Human values have to be an integral part of all facets of life; be it business, politics or society as a whole. “The economic meltdown is the result of greed. Ethical and moral values are the backbone of business and business is the way to sustain the world.”

During his visit to Israel, 19th - 22nd October 2009 Sri Sri was a speaker at the Presidential Conference - 'Facing Tomorrow' 2009. In an interview with renowned talk show host Dan Shilon, he shared that the Middle East crisis could be solved through educating people with a multi cultural, multi religious and broader spectrum of knowledge”.

He addressed a group of business leaders at the Tel Aviv University, an address at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and also gave a public address where people had an opportunity to ask questions on spirituality and how to overcome problems.

During his visit to Israel Sri Sri highlighted the need to secularize religion, socialize business and spiritualize politics. Addressing the business leaders Sri Sri said:

“I feel Fanaticism and fundamentalism can be quelled through educating children in a multicultural and multi religious manner. When a child grows up thinking, “Only I go to heaven. Everybody else is going to hell,” they create a hell for everybody else.

The two streams of thought, torah and veda are the most ancient on the planet. The oldest of all the religions is Judaism on one hand and on the other hand the Hindu way of life, Hinduism. There are a lot of similarities, but we both say one thing: you say, “Shalom,” and we say, “Om Shanti, Om Shanti”— “Let there be peace!” Let us all be united. The world is one beautiful family. This message we need to take everywhere, to every doorstep”.

Diwali means the festival of lights. Each one of you is a light to yourself. To light one candle is not enough. Everyone has to be happy and light up. Symbolically this signifies igniting the light of wisdom. There are 27 countries in Europe, so we will light one lamp for each country. The Diwali message is: Let go of the past. Celebrate life with wisdom. Without wisdom it is not true celebration at all. The wisdom is in knowing that the divinity is with me.

At a public gathering in Tokyo Sri Sri emphasized the importance of observing the tendencies of the mind, of being established in the silence within, as well as being dynamic in outer activity.

He said we should have a centre here where we can teach this beautiful knowledge which can bring good health and happiness to the people of Japan. We must do something for the old and young. We want to have a physical place where anybody can walk in, learn meditation and remove the anxiety in life.

Sri Sri’s final words were; “Be like a child. Be with enthusiasm. Dance and sing and be joyful. Life has problems, but they come and go. Don’t mind what is happening in the mind. Don’t mind what is happening in life. Just move on. When you share more and more comes to you. When you spread love, love comes to you”.

A talk was organized with the theme of “Warai to Kokoro,” or “Laughter and Heart”. Sri Sri began his address by saying:

“India and Japan have had a long-standing relationship. In fact I would say the whole world is one family whether it is America, Europe, Japan, or India.There is a saying in India that says ‘The World is one family’. Matsuda San concluded the meeting by remarking, “When I visited India, I found many people who like Japan. However, not many people in Japan know much about India. They know about IT, turbans and curry, but they have not understood the heart of the people. Sri Sri shared that heart with us”.

In his address in Gangnam, Sri Sri said Korea must look towards its education system in order to institute the multicultural mindsets that will see them overcome racism. Regionalism will be a problem for the country until it starts out on the process of multiculturalism. "We have to teach people a multicultural and broad mindset, otherwise, you know, a sort of narrow racism and regionalism will be a problem for people," he said.
Sri Sri is in Korea to give a talk at the World Knowledge Forum being held in Seoul this week, where former U.S. President George W. Bush is also a speaker. The Gangnam event was one of two sideline events he is holding.
When asked about the involvement of fellow speaker Bush, Sri Sri said, "Well, that is good. Everybody is welcome in knowledge. It is a lack of knowledge that gives a different color to your personality."
Spiritual Leaders Offer Insight on Happiness-koreatimes.co.kr

The WORLD CULTURE FORUM is committed to the establishment of a healthy balance between the six facets of culture, defined as: science, art, politics, religion, economics and media.
In His address, Sri Sri emphasized the importance of Spirituality in bringing stable Peace. With the WCF award, the jury of the WCF honors the holistic approach for a "balance of cultures" brought about by Sri Sri.
Video : Indian religious leaders in Dresden , 9 Oct

Sri Sri gave useful insights, stating that health is not mere absence of disease but it also includes welcoming happiness in life. He said, Ayurveda has, not yet reached the level of respect that Chinese medicine has got today. Each one of us, and the government also has this responsibility to take Ayurveda to that level. We need to pay attention to our environment. We have to totally integrate Yoga and Spirituality. We have to include these in our lives. Only giving medicines to people won’t work. It is equally important to inspire them to pay attention to rest, yoga, and meditation.

Sri Sri addressed the issues surrounding mental and physical health. He spoke about how in the East over 5000 years ago, there was a concept of social well-being, where you are healthy only if you are happy mentally, physically and socially. He also expressed shock that nearly 30% of Europe suffers from depression and Doctors predict the number to raise to 48% in the coming decade.
“Mental well being to me is improved perception, improved observation and improved expression. Like, the body grows from the time you are born to the age 21, 22 and then the body starts deteriorating, our mental age, our mental well being should grow simultaneously from childhood we need to keep improving our perception, observation and our expression this has no age, usually psychologists say 50 or 40 it stops, at middle age our mental observation, expression starts deteriorating. I say if you are practicing yoga or meditation this doesn't happen. There is no decay of your mental well-being”.

 

H.H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar inaugurated the Dassera Celebrations atop the Chamundi Hills in Mysore, in the presence of Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa, by lighting a lamp and offering flowers to Chamundehswari. Sri Sri hoped the festival would strengthen the values of honesty and friendship in society. He commended the government for introducing the ‘Grameena Dasssera’ (rural Dassera).

““Spiritual essence unites the hearts and minds of people.” said Sri Sri as he embarked on a ‘Spiritual Awakening Tour’ in Tamil Nadu. On the first day of the tour, Sri Sri also suggested that the 1.25 lakh Sri Lankan Tamils living as refugees in the 112 camps in Tamil Nadu should be given immigrant status like their counterparts living in Europe and America. “It is just humane to give hope and opportunity to these people living in Tamil Nadu”. He also called for a signature campaign by the citizens to absorb the Sri Lankan Tamils into the mainstream of Indian society. They should be given ration cards, homes, jobs and citizenship. The tour aims at reviving ancient Indian value systems and traditions. Temple visits, tour of the Pancha Maha Bhootha Sthalas (temples that epitomize the Five elements), prayers and meditations. Sri Sri’s tour of the Pancha Maha Bhootha Sthalas is of particular significance. It is believed that the universe and our body is made up of five elements (tatvas) – Air, Water, Fire, Earth and Ether –which are called Pancha Maha Bhoothas. In the Indian culture and tradition, temples epitomize these Pancha Maha Bhoothas, besides being centers of learning, knowledge and culture which enrich value systems. Sri Sri will be launching environmental sustainability campaigns along the different spots of the tour.
In Video:
Eco awareness need of the hour - Indian Express

Sri Sri encouraged a Tamil gathering to pray for Tamils in Sri Lanka at the Sivananda Ashram in Val Morin. Before the public address, Sri Sri attended a prayer meeting and was honored at the ashram.

Sri Sri spoke at the 10th Annual International Conference hosted by the Szent Istvan University. The University conferred Sri Sri with their highest honor, Professor Honoris Causa.

To promote an understanding among various religious groups in India, especially in light of the attacks on minorities, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar attended an inter-faith conference in Mumbai on June 12. This event was the “first official meeting between the pope's representatives and top Indian Hindu religious leaders”. Cardinal Jean-Louis Pierre Tauran, President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue; Shankaracharya of the Kanchi Kamakoti Mutt; Sri Jayendra Saraswati Swamiji and Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Mumbai shared their perspectives on increasing inter-faith understanding.

With the aim of globalizing human values, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar recently visited Lithuania. He emphasized human values, and a broad-minded approach to find solutions to the global challenges of fanaticism and terrorism. “Every child needs to know about every religion of the world. Today, a big problem is fanaticism. Education about the human values of every religion will solve this problem,” Sri Sri said in his address at a public forum on May 31.
Sri Sri’s called upon the Prime Minister of Lithuania, Andrius Kubilius on June 1 to deliberate on solutions for global problems.
He also met with Vytautas Landsbergis, member of the European Parliament and ex-chairman of Lithuania on May 30.
Many residents sought Sri Sri’s guidance on meditation and stress-elimination breath techniques at an advanced meditation course held between May 30-June 1.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was the key note speaker at the centenary celebrations of the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore on May 25. His talk spanned a wide range of subjects: from ancient Indian scriptures to the theory of relativity. In response to a question on scientific research, Sri Sri said: “When love for science is intense, it is already moving the world. The ultimate aim of a researcher is not to earn a livelihood. If the main aim of a researcher is to earn a livelihood it is not best quality research. It has to lead to a soul-search. Research is to know. The joy of knowing is itself the goal. Getting recognition is immaterial.”

 

“Every graduation, you are reminded of your duty. May the world become more prosperous, violence-free, and peaceful,” said His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as he was conferred with a doctorate from the Bangalore University at the Art of Living International Center this evening. As the Vice-Chancellor of the university read out the citation, he highlighted Sri Sri’s work as a peace negotiator, and counselor, as well as all the work done as a social activist.

“I accept this doctorate with all humility,” said Sri Sri. “Vidyaa dadaati vinayam – Knowledge brings humility. I would urge all to remember what you need to do for society - social responsibilities, as well as personal responsibilities.”

When disembarking from the flight to Sofia, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was asked: What made you commit your life to building a world without violence? He said: “I do this work because of my love for humanity.” On his first visit to the country, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was asked his guidance on many critical issues facing the world, including the role of religion in conflicts, and the Easter violence in Bulgaria.

“A multi-cultural outlook would bring in more tolerance, and learning. We all need to create a stress-free, and violence-free society,” HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said. He emphasized the need to teach children how to control their minds through the breath. “There is violence in the youth today because they have emotions trapped inside, and they are not taught how to handle their own minds.”

To deliberate on solutions, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar met with the Ministers of Health, Justice, Social Affairs as well as the Vice-Minister of External Affairs.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar shared his vision of a One World Family, stressed the need for religious tolerance, and dialog for resolving conflicts at a seminar in the Palace of Culture on April 26. Over 4,000 people from Bulgaria, and other Balkan countries gathered to learn breath techniques, and meditation at a Health & Happiness workshop personally conducted by HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

He also met the Head of the Orthodox Church.

Concerned about the conflict in Sri Lanka and the plight of the civilians, His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar went on a 3-day peace mission to Sri Lanka. He closely interacted with refugees in the Manik camp for Internally Displaced People (IDP) as well as a camp in Vavuniya.

“Whatever you need for a good and dignified life, we are there to support you,” HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar told the troubled people. “The Art of Living Foundation and I are right with you in your hour of need,” he assured them. “All your children will study and have a good future. This is my guarantee.”

While HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar distributed the relief material, many refugees shared their plight with HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. An engineer in one of the camps said, “We will lose our mind, we are going crazy as we are here for four months.”

His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar conveyed the desire of the Tamils to the President of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Mahinda Rajapakse. “The untold suffering of the Tamils will make any heart bleed. A place that has never seen beggars has to beg for water, food, clothes, and for life itself,” HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar told the President during their interaction.

The Venerable Bellanwilla Wimalaratana Thero, chancellor of Sri Jayawardhanapura University expressed his happiness on HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar`s visit, and said that this augurs well for the people of Sri Lanka.

As part of his peace mission, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also met up with several dignitaries including Opposition leader Ranil Wickramasinghe, American Ambassador to Sri Lanka Robert Blake, Ministers in the Sri Lankan cabinet, and Parliamentarians with a notable exception being the Indian Ambassador to Sri Lanka.

An advanced meditation programme, the first ever Health & Happiness workshop in Australia, a public  talk at the Majestic Theatre, and a keynote address at the 2nd International Ayurveda and Yoga Conference in Sydney … HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s days in Australia were filled.

Meditation for world peace was the dominant flavour of every event - a cruise along the Sydney Harbour, evening satsangs or afternoon sessions with participants of the Health & Happiness workshop.

Diverse backgrounds from different parts of the world, opposing ideologies, and beliefs were erased as HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar interacted with the audiences. The ensuing question & answer sessions gave the solutions to many of the current global concerns.

‘Spirituality is essential to keep politics away from corruption, war’

Over 1,600 people waited to see the man ‘Who is changing the world’ at the Majestic Theatre in Sydney on April 2, 2009. This marked HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s first public talk in the country after five years. What followed was an informal interaction – Q&As with the audience – dominant with HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s characteristic wit, and simplicity.
“Today we live our lives on a treadmill – running, and getting nowhere! And, we have to keep on running just to stay stable. This is the reason for frustration. It is the reason for frustration in our individual lives. We ask ourselves, “What is the value on spirituality in this society?” Know that it is as relevant as medicine to the sick, rest to the tired, and wealth to the poor.
A violence- free society, disease free body, quiver free breath is the right of every individual. Just observe your breath – It indicates your state of mind.”
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“It is up to us to create a time without wars,” said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar when speaking with 122 youth at a special Q&A session at the Art of Living Ashram in Germany. Amidst the continuous snowfall, was the warmth of laughter, and cheer as these youth, from 31 countries, had a heart-to-heart chat with HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. When asked about leadership, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said:
“A leader has 12 qualities

• sets an example
• cares for those who follow him
• a good leader creates leaders
• does not depend on authority
• does not worry about position
• alert, and undisturbed by challenges
• stretches himself beyond comfort zone
• does not mix head, and heart
• is multidimensional, appreciates other point of views
• evaluates both sides of the situation before a decision
• directly approachable
• does not judge himself.”

This session is part of the ongoing Yes! We can workshop which envisions the creation of a peaceful society.
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar encouraged the group to lead society, citing the challenges of modern living: “In Europe 28 percent of the population are under depression. More and more people are becoming unhappy day by day. We have to change this.” Watch Video

“A spiritual guru, and journalist, both, are respected in society. So, both should be impartial,” said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar when he met members of a media house on March 3. “If we get carried away by emotions, and take somebody’s side, how can we point out his/her mistakes later? By siding with people, we end up committing injustice against others. A journalist should bring reality to light, and write to ignite hope rather than creating pessimism.” As a humanitarian, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was also asked his views on education, the voting system, and terrorism.
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was in Aurangabad to teach people the techniques of yoga, and meditation for better living. After undergoing HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s Health & Happiness workshop, many participants shared healing experiences.
Corporates interacted with HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar with questions on the role of moral ethics, and spirituality in business.
SLIDE SHOW: In Pictures
Watch video

Innovation, technology, and spirituality were given a new dimension when HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed the annual Strategy & Action Planning meet (STRAP 2009) at Infosys Technologies’ in Bangalore (India). An excerpt: “Notice the difference between inspiration, and motivation. Motivation is material-oriented. Inspiration is goal-oriented, value-oriented, and stays for a long time.
You see these highly motivated Maoists? You will be surprised. In the prime of their life they go through the forest. They don't live a comfortable life. They are inspired by Karl Marx, or Mao. Can't we use the same inspiration in a creative manner? They should know that what they do will contribute to a larger cause of humanity. Mahatma Gandhi inspired people, and so the entire nation united. This inspiration has been used politically, religiously - what makes a young boy of 22 put his life in suicide missions? If he puts this into science, technology - what couldn’t be achieved?” Read full talk

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar led the 500,000 people present in Kollam (Kerala) in a special meditation for world peace. He explained the significance of the Shivratri festival to the gathering which comprised people of different nationalities, and walks of life. Quoting the Naasadiya Sukta, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said: “A true devotee, a true atheist, and a true scientist have one thing in common, and that is uncertainty. Anything which is inert can be certain but anything which is alive can only be uncertain. The highest truth declared here (in the mantra) says that you can only say ‘perhaps’ to that realm of the unthinkable ,incomprehensible reality, and that is meditation. That is Shivaratri.”
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also said: Shivaratri is uniting with the shiva tattva (the essence): which is not in the Kailash Parbat (the mountains where Lord Shiva lived). Look for the shiva tattva right here, and right now in your atma (soul). Wherever you cognize the shiva tattva that becomes Kailash. Shiva tattva is where there is only bliss, or celebration.”
Watch video

On the morning of Feb. 17, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar reached Patamda, a town in the heart of a Naxalite belt in Jharkhand. Transformed Naxalites, who have given up the path of violence, build an Art of Living center there to give an impetus to the developmental activities in the region. Since Feb. 14, there was a curfew in the area. Naxalites lifted the curfew, on learning about HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's visit. Their welcome was evident in the messages written across the mud walls of the houses there: "Welcome Guruji."
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed a crowd of 3,500 people comprising Naxal leaders, villagers, and panchayat leaders. He called upon all Naxalites to work for social development: "Naxalite youth are our children. They have taken to this path (of violence) because they are tired of poverty, discrimination, and corruption. We need such strong children in our country who are willing to give their lives. We want people like you to give up the bullet, and take to the ballot. Don't kill policemen. They are servants who are doing a job. I welcome you all to come forward. We will be behind you, and support you. We need compassionate, strong, and responsible leadership."
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also addressed developmental issues of the village: "India is a country of villages. If villages don't prosper, the country will not move forward. The focus has to shift to villages. We need to focus on chemical-free farming. Disease, and body ache are due to the chemicals put in the food. We need to go back to the old systems of nutrition. Pranayama, yoga and satsang are a must."
Emphasizing education, he said: "Are all the women sending their children to school? Not a single child must be illiterate. Every child must be well educated, and have a bright future." HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar asked the people to abstain from alcohol. "This should be an alcohol-free village. Alcohol destroys man, village, city, and nation. Stop this river of alcohol, and move into the river of love. Once we let go of our quarrels, our village will prosper."
"Let us take a vow: not to harbor hatred, to vote, and to plant five trees each."
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has been driving community developmental measures in villages like Patamda with the aim of making them self-sufficient and reliant.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed 150,000 people in Durgapur, West Bengal while leading a meditation for world peace. He encouraged youth to engage themselves in nation-building. "It is the strength of the youth that will transform the nation. I urge all youth to give six months of their lives to the nation. Go from village to village, and create an awareness of a beautiful, safe, and prosperous nation." He also encouraged them to enter politics, and make a difference. "Every party needs good people."

"Love without wisdom (gyan) can bring trouble," said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, while addressing thousands of people at the Rabindra Sarovar stadium in Kolkata on February 14. "If love comes with wisdom, there will be joy, satisfaction, and benediction," he continued. Several among the audience asked HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's guidance on life, suffering, and happiness. Later, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar led the gathering into a meditation for global peace.
"Years ago, a wave of spirituality went to the entire world from India, especially from Bengal," said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar from the famous Dakshineshwar Temple on Feb. 15. He inaugurated a program to commemorate the 500th year of sanyas (worldly renunciation), and paribrajan (travels for spiritual teachings) of Sriman Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. It was also the 500th year of his initiation of the masses to the Hare Krishna Mahamantra (Mantra on Lord Krishna). "All one has to do is to revive spirituality in every nook and corner of Bengal. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu lives in everyone."

“There is one humanity, and nobody is bad,” said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar at a gathering of 25,000 Muslims in Bangalore. “A terrorist is not bad but he needs guidance, and we should look to change the course of humanity with love, and not through violence.” He was addressing an anti-terrorism convention, ‘Fight against Terrorism’ organized by the Jamiat Ulama -I- Hind. The large gathering took an oath to fight terrorism, and promote peace.
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also addressed another gathering organized by the Jamiat Ulama -I- Hind in November 2008. “We will move ahead,” said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar at the time, promoting the values of non-violence, and peace.

Concerned over the plight of displaced people from Sri Lanka, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar met over 3,000 Sri Lankan Tamil refugees at Mandapam in Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu). HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar promised them that he would make “all efforts” to get them back to their country where they could lead dignified lives. He assured them that their lost jobs, homes, and land would be restored to them. He also appealed to the Sri Lankan Government to compensate the Sri Lankan Tamil refugees for their losses, and rehabilitate them.
Citing the example of Germany and Japan, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also emphasized that a new beginning followed every destruction. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar offered solace to the refugees at the camp, and distributed clothing. The Art of Living has been conducting trauma relief workshops at the camp.
Incidentally, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has visited Sri Lanka in a bid to diffuse the tension between the government, and the LTTE. He has, repeatedly, been gathering international support for the crisis on the island nation. In April 2008, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar brought peace experts together at the ‘Peace and Reconciliation in South Asia: Challenges and Opportunities’ Conference to discuss the situation in Sri Lanka.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was present at the consecration ceremonies of a Buddha idol at a Buddhist Vihara in Gulbarga (Karnataka). He led Nobel Laureate, and spiritual leader Dalai Lama to the idol, and assisted the latter in the ceremonies. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar stressed the need to revive, and spread Buddha's message of tolerance, peace, and non-violence. "It's a time for people to follow Buddha, Basava, and Ambedkar, and their preaching in every aspect of life," he said. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has, time and again, encouraged people of different philosophies to come together, especially in light of the rising conflicts, and violence in the world today.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed a seminar on 'Spiritualism for Combat Leadership' at the National Defense Academy in Pune. When asked about the connection between spirituality and combat, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said that the knowledge given in Bhagvad Geeta (Indian scripture) was delivered on a battle field. Speaking on the importance of meditation, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said: "Meditation raises the level of prana (energy). When the prana rises, life is enhanced by three-fold: integrative, innovative and intuitive."
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also gave some practical tips to withstand physical, and situational challenges when stationed in sensitive areas. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also pointed out that worldwide soldiers read spiritual texts belonging to their countries. "Similarly our India soldiers should read the Guru Granth Sahib which has the essence of Indian spirituality," he said.
This seminar was part of several to commemorate to Academy's 60th anniversary.

Encouraging grassroots development, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar urged 550 village heads to develop specific products in their villages. Speaking at Ahmednagar, (Maharashtra), HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said that rural entrepreneurship would financially strengthen villages. He also urged youth to come forward to participate in the development of the country. "Youth need direction, especially after the terror attack in Mumbai. They need something that can take them towards development. Spirituality can give that direction," he said. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar added that "Educated youngsters should take responsibility for the country."
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also taught pranyaam, and yoga to 15,000 people in Ahemednagar, giving them tools for a disease-free body, and a stress-free mind.
Earlier, on Jan. 13, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar led one hundred thousand people through a meditation for global peace at the famous temple of Shirdi.
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Shirdi: Star News (Hindi)

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed scientists at the Indian Space Research Organisation in Bangalore. While speaking of the Indian philosophy behind space, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also touched upon the working of the mind. "At any point in time, there are thousands of thoughts streaming through our brains. Look at the thoughts. We hardly act upon them: Less than two percent are acted upon. Each thought is an impulse of energy, and consciousness. Calming the mind can give that much energy to us instead of wasting it in useless thought. What is a worry? It is the same thought getting stuck like an orbit, going around, and around."

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar further said: "If the sky is clouded then even through the most powerful telescope, we cannot see far out into the universe. Similarly, with a clouded mind we cannot innovate, look far and create."

To increase citizen participation against the growing threat of terrorism, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar launched the state-wide, government-led campaign against terrorism in Mangalore, (Karnataka). "Parents, and students must become responsible, and fight unitedly against terrorism without any bias towards region, and caste," HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar urged the gathering of 25,000 students. Higher education minister Aravind Limbavali, and home minister Dr. V.S. Acharya also attended the program. "It is not only the responsibility of the police to curb terrorism. Individuals have a major role to play in identifying terrorists," he said. The campaign envisions creating awareness among 1.8 million students in a month.
Anti-terror campaign begins
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Calls to Fight Against Terrorism

A few minutes after the clock chimed twelve, ushering the New Year, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar gave a message for 2009 at the Art of Living Center in Bad Antogast, Germany. He said: "The time on this planet for us is a gift. When we consider time as a gift, our whole outlook towards life shifts. Like every year, 2008 also has offered you many gifts. With its thorns, it has made you strong; with its petals, it has given you joy …
Let us celebrate with this one intention that let's bring home (Spiritual) Knowledge to everyone - that life, events are impermanent. What is permanent is our spirit, our consciousness. It has no birth, and death. Life at a higher plane is eternal. So celebrate every moment knowing that every moment is a gift to us.  In 2009, we have a great responsibility to uplift the planet from the ashes of the disasters of 2008. New hope, new creation has to be made."
10 Commandments of Joy - Arunachal Front
Finding True Happiness – The Arunachal Times
This Year, Drop the Past – The Dawnlit Post
Celebrate Life Without Any Excuse

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s concerns for environment protection, and mitigating the effects of global warming translated into an action-oriented confluence of non-governmental organizations. At the ‘Sangam 2008’ conference, held at the Art of Living International Center, (Bangalore), about 600 delegates deliberated on collaborating to achieve the eight Millennium Development Goals. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar outlined his vision for the world in his address: “A violence-free world, disease-free body, prejudice-free mind, and a loving environment are the birthrights of every individual.”

The conference also emphasized social justice where NGOs were provided with a direct interface with the Indian judicial system. 'Sangam' was the first conference of its kind where the Judicial System was in interface with the civil societies not only through the special joint session but also in all the working sessions where the judges from NALSA (National Legal Services Authority) were on the chair.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar brought together hundreds of monks, and saints from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia, and various parts of India in his bid to harness the commonalities in the teachings of the two religions as a source of world peace. “Vedanta, and Buddhism have the solution to combat the problems of depression, violence, and conflicts as they connect you with inner strength through meditation,” he said in his address at the ‘Vedanta-Buddhism: Bringing Global Peace’ conference at the Art of Living International Center in Bangalore.

Organized by the Art of Living, and the Maha Bodhi Society, the two-day-conference aimed at building complementary roles for both traditions to resolve problems facing the world. “The world needs to know how to live amidst differences. and celebrate those differences,” HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar told the gathering.

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Led by HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, tens of thousands of people meditated for world peace in Surat, Gujarat. He also conducted a Health and Happiness workshop, in which people learned simple breathing techniques for better health. A special homa for peace also took place on the occasion of Shivratri on March 6. Over 200,000 people from different parts of India, and the world including Russia, Canada, Germany, South Africa, and Hong Kong joined HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in prayers, and meditation for world peace.

To facilitate peace-building measures to end long-standing conflicts in South Asia, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar led the Peace & Reconciliation Conference in Oslo. “We must continue to pursue the path of peace,” said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. “Conflicts are bound to come, and we have to make them a stepping stone to achieve the ultimate goal of global peace,” he urged the audience comprising stakeholders in the peace process from the region as well as experts.

The conference was held under the aegis of the International Association for Human Values, (IAHV), a sister organization of the Art of Living. The focus of the conference was on finding a novel solution, which combines South Asian perspective, and Western thought. It called for peaceful resolution of the unsettled issues, and cited spirituality as a way forward. Special workshops on the Naxal violence in India, ethnic Tamil strife in Sri Lanka, and oppression in Myanmar were conducted during the conference.
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HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s week-long visit to the South American country was marked by several initiatives to spread peace in the country as well as help people learn techniques for inner peace. Significantly, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, and the Mayor of Buenos Aires signed a mutual cooperation agreement between the Art of Living Foundation, and the Government of the City of Buenos Aires to work together to reduce violence in the streets, and schools.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was also invited to address the Senate of Argentina: “Decision-makers need to be free from stress to come up with great ideas, and work well. Dignity in politics, and ethics in business ensure buying power. Only then can an economy prosper.” On May 13, over 10,000 Argentineans lit candles of peace, and participated in a meditation for world peace to show solidarity with victims of the blast attacks which occurred a day before in Jaipur, India. Spreading the message of human values in corporate life, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed a Conference on Corporate Ethics and Human Values. “Society has four pillars - politics, business, academics and religion - each of which is present here. Human values and spirituality form the base of these four pillars.”

In a significant breakthrough, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar brought together Hindu leaders from various parts of India to campaign against HIV/AIDS, and spread awareness. This was the first time that Hindu religious leaders came on a common platform for this cause. Held at the Art of Living International Center in Bangalore, the conference was born from a partnership between the Art of Living, and UNAIDS. “If all of us can take on this project to educate youth about healthy living, positive thinking, and a stigma-free, inhibition-free attitude towards people, we would have taken a big step,” said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The leaders decided to spread awareness through their public discourses as well as counseling, especially the youth.
Gurus of India Come Together
Video: Battle Against AIDS

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar successfully negotiated between the government of Rajasthan, and the Gujjars who were caught in a 19-day violent unrest over the Gujjar community’s demand for scheduled tribe status, and reservation benefits. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar met over 50,000 members of the Gujjar community in Pilukapura. Significantly, it was the first time that the Gujjars were willing to listen to a mediator.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s message to both parties was that only negotiations can bring about a solution. His message to the Gujjar community was: “Do not take to arms for that doesn't hold the answer. We can achieve our rights in a non-violent way.” Thanks to HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s effort, the two parties arrived at an amicable solution in a few days. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Convinces Gujjars to Come to Talks

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was honored by the New Jersey General Assembly during his visit to Edison. It passed a resolution “to acknowledge that HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has been furthering the best of human instincts, traits, and characteristics…; for promoting sustainable growth in poor rural communities…; for Art of Living which assists at-risk youth in turning away from gang violence, drugs, and alcohol toward a life of greater generosity and service…”

Mayor Jun Choi honored HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar at the inaugurating ceremony of a meditation, and yoga retreat conducted by the spiritual leader, and participated by over 1,500 people. The mayor also declared July 4-6, which coincides with Independence Day in the United States, as ‘His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Weekend in Edison’. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in New Jersey

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar took part in the Guru Poornima celebrations organized by the local chapter of the Art of Living in California. Guru Purnima is an occasion for all seekers to express their gratitude to their spiritual masters. Addressing the large gathering HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, “Each one of you should play the role of a Guru to at least some people in your life. This can happen when you want nothing from them other than their happiness and progress. Can you be a guru like that to some people? Like you become a father or mother, you should also be a guru to someone. Play the role of the guru by caring for them unconditionally. Care for them without caring for what they are going to do for you.”

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar played a major role in finding an amicable solution to the Amarnath land imbroglio that triggered large-scale violence, and protests throughout Jammu and Kashmir. The J&K government had granted some land to the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, the body that oversees the annual pilgrimage to the famous temple, to create basic amenities for the thousands of pilgrims who visit the shrine. At a time when the issue was getting polarized along communal lines between the Hindu, and Muslim communities, creating wide-spread violence, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar managed to convince leaders from all sections of society to stop violent protests, and come to the negotiating table. His call to civil society to play a proactive role in restoring normalcy was widely appreciated. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar underlined the need for the majority community to take responsibility for protecting the minority community. “Wherever Hindus are in majority, they need to protect the Muslims, and vice versa,” he said.
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar holds talks with leaders in Kashmir
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Mediates in the Amarnath imbroglio – India TV

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed the Point of Peace Summit, a meeting of former Nobel Peace Prize laureates, and conflict solution experts, in Stavanger, Norway on September 11, 2008. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar drew the attention of the leaders of peace with a stimulating articulation on dialog as a means for peace during his address on the topic ‘The Power of Dialogue -9/11 and Then What?’

“There is a great need for dialog, and for creating mediators. The role of a mediator is vital, and he needs to play the role of a catalyst without imposing himself,” he said. “Most conflicts are based on an identity crisis. We have forgotten that first, and foremost, we are all human beings; then other identifications such as religion, nationality, and gender follow. If people get stuck with their limited identities, they are ready to die for it. We need to move beyond our narrow identities to overcome fear, mistrust, and conflict in the post 9/11 scenario,” he added.

Galvanizing flood relief efforts in Orissa, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar chalked out a detailed plan for relief efforts with the Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik during an aerial survey of the affected areas. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was in Bhubaneshwar for a few days during which the foundation stone of the HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar University was laid by him, and the Chief Minister. Emphasizing educational opportunities for women, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar expressed hope that each individual would become educated. “The students who pass out of this university would not be terrorists. They would be sevaks who will work for society,” he said. Over 10,000 people gathered despite torrential rains for a meditation with HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. He taught stress-elimination techniques to around 10,000 people at a Health and Happiness workshop held in Bhubaneshwar. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar met people from a wide cross section of society, from corporate in Bhubaneshwar to villagers in Bidyadharpur.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar visited the flood-hit areas of Purnia, and Madhepura in Bihar on September 25, 2008 to take stock of the relief activities, and bring solace to the flood-affected victims. As he surveyed the worst affected areas walking in knee-deep water, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar counseled the victims, urging them to have courage, and remain optimistic. He visited the Jankinagar Phulwari camp in Purnia, where the Art of Living is taking care of nearly 5,000 people. “Under these trying circumstances, make the best use of your stay in the camps,” he told a 10,000-strong crowd from the nearby 50 villages that had gathered at Purnia. To help the victims utilize their time at the camps, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said the Art of Living would provide vocational training to women, and teach reading, and writing to the illiterate. The Art of Living is also reaching out to more remote, inaccessible areas which are still submerged under water.

Over 20,000 people from 61 countries took part in a mass prayer for world peace led by HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on October 7, 2008. The event was part of the annual Navratri celebrations at the Art of Living International Center in Bangalore, India. The collective intention (sankalpa) of the homas and yagnas (Vedic rituals), group meditations, and prayers held during the Indian festival was to strengthen the resolve to root out terrorism, bring peace, and increase the inner strength of people. Explaining the significance of the prayers, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, "The homas, and yagnas are very significant as they create the unseen power which elevates and strengthens the consciousness.” Cutting across all religions and traditions, the prayers were attended by people from Russia, Taiwan, Mongolia, Germany, Africa, and the United States of America.

The prayers marked yet another of HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s endeavor to establish peace in the world. Through meditation, and stress elimination workshops, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has been promoting spiritual values to resolve conflicts around the world. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has also used these values to bring opposing groups, and ideologies together for dialog, and negotiation.

Giving a boost to the ongoing Mission Green Earth project, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, and the Karnataka Minister for Higher Education, Aravind Limbavali planted a sapling at the Bangalore University. The symbolic tree plantation enforces HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s commitment to safeguard the environment as well as promote sustainable, and eco-friendly practices, globally. “We have to make a new society, one which takes responsibility, and which has a sense of belonging: ‘Our’ society, ‘our’ country’, and ‘our’ earth,” said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Over 10 million trees have been planted across the globe as part of the Mission Green Earth: Stand Up Take Action project, a joint initiative of the Art of Living, United Nations Millennium Campaign (UNMC), and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

“The root cause of violence is stress, and a lack of understanding,” said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar at a comparative human rights conference which addressed the extent religious values, and philosophy promote human values. “All cultures need to secularize religion,” he told the audience at the University of Connecticut. “The youth need a multi-cultural, and multi-religious education,” he said, “to help them understand that everyone is part of the worldwide human society.” Citing Mahatma Gandhi’s method of combining spirituality, and political activism, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said every nation must “spiritualize politics.”
Combine Spiritual Values with Political Activism

 

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar shared meditation, and relaxation techniques with management students at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, as part of the school’s leadership lecture series. Many from the audience experienced a group meditation for the first time. During an interactive question, and answer session, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said that spirituality is the point where all religions meet.
A Different Kind of Guru for MBAs

 

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar led a peace meditation, and a special puja on the occasion of Deepavali,or Diwali, the festival of lights. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s message to the thousands of people you attended the celebrations: “You throw light on your life…The wisdom you have gained in your life.”
Thousands Come to Dallas For Hindu Diwali Festival
Diwali: Celebrating the Light of Wisdom

 

 

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed the 29th National Meeting of the Jamiat-Ulema-i-Hind, the largest body of Muslim clerics in Hyderabad, India as the chief guest. He urged the audience comprising 6,000 clerics to prevent youth from treading the wrong path of terrorism. He also appealed for unity between the Hindu, and Muslim communities, in the face of attempts made by vested interests. He also appealed for unity in the Muslim community itself. “The Shias and Sunnis are like two eyes of Islam and both should remain united. Unfortunately, Muslims are being branded as terrorists and this attempt can be fought only when the community remains united,” said HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, citing his experiences in Iraq where people from both sects in a village came together after his appeal during his visit there in 2007.

Can a focus on human values, and the common good of all be the missing link in addressing today’s economic crisis, and danger of recession? The 5th Corporate Culture and Spirituality Conference organized by the International Association of Human Values (IAHV) at the European Parliament in Brussels opened on this note. A part of the International Business & Leadership Symposium, the Conference saw a positive interaction between different economies of the world as they deliberated on issues raised by the recent global economic recession. The Corporate Culture and Spirituality is the calendar corporate event of the Art of Living, driven by HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s commitment to spread human values in all arenas of life.
Corporate Ethics Answer to Global Crisis

Emphasizing that honoring diversity is the path to peace, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said that it was imperative to take peace dialogs to every part of the world. Sharing his vision for world peace at ‘The Civilization of Peace: Faiths and Cultures in Dialogue’ conference in Cyprus, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said: “The Spirit loves diversity, God loves diversity. That is why He created so many different types of flowers, fruits, and people. And honoring diversity is the only way we can be at peace.” He also said: “A conflict arises in the mind, in individual life, within the family. Then it spreads inside the community, and finally comes between nations. The reason is stress, and a lack of faith in that one God, that He is with us, and He cares for us. So, love, and compassion have to be rekindled in society to put an end to stress, and violence and to bring the community together.” “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the whole world is one family.”

 

The Art of Living hosted ‘Brahm Naad’, where 1,200 sitarists performed together on one platform, in a first-of-its-kind concert in Delhi, India. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s vision behind the two-day program was to popularize Indian classical music, and re-enforce the power of music in spreading peace and message. As sitarists from different religions, castes, and sections of society from India, and various parts of the world plucked their strings in unison, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said: “Music connects the individual to the universal spirit. Music is that rhythm, and harmony that flows from the universal to the individual; from the cosmos to the finite.” Slated to find its way into the Guinness Book of World records, the proceeds from Brahm Naad are dedicated to the relief and rehabilitation of flood-ravaged Bihar.

Music for a Cause: CNN-IBN
1000 sitarists for Brahm Naad’: Watch Video
Symphony 1
Symphony 2
Symphony 3

Taking his message of love, peace, and belongingness to the North East of India, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar brought inner peace to hundreds of people through his public appearances. During the weeklong visit, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar envisioned a long-term vision for building a prosperous, and peaceful Arunachal Pradesh. He initiated a process of engaging the local population, especially the youth, in implementing sustainable development initiatives, and preserving, and promoting the indigenous culture and traditions of the state. He addressed the three-day Indigenous Youth Festival in Pasighat, calling upon youths to be proud of their roots rather than looking down upon it. Besides attending public events in Itanagar, Pasighat and Tawang, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also held fruitful discussions with the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Dorjee Khandu, Governor Gen (Retd) J J Singh, and the Bishop of Itanagar.
Another focus during the visit was the training of over a thousand youth from the North East to become peace angels. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar interacted with them, and directed plans of sustainable development, vocational training in the region, and encouraged them to work towards a stress-free, violence-free world.
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also taught the secrets of happy, healthy, and meaningful living to local population through a Health and Happiness workshop in Itanagar.
Develop zero tolerance to intolerance: HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar,
In Pictures
As dawn breaks, he pipes peace, the charm lingers on
North East finds a peacemaker in HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

 

 

“Being peaceful does not mean being inactive,” HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar told the thousands in the crowd that had gathered for a peace meditation after the 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai. He told them to bring about a revolution through peaceful means. “Whatever has happened has traumatized people, yet we will not waver from our nature. With non-violence and peace, we will transform the situation,” he said. He told the crowd that people on the path of violence should be educated. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar then led the gathering into a meditation for world peace. While in Mumbai, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar directed the ongoing trauma relief work which involves volunteers offering immediate assistance in hospitals as well as conducting trauma care workshops and counseling conducted by the Art of Living. Kids meditate to cope with trauma

 

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar called for a strong resolution to work towards peace in the individual, peace among communities, and peace among nations at the 3rd World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace in Paris. “The world will not be a safe place, even if a small part of the world lives in ignorance,” he said. Referring to the terror attacks in Mumbai, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said that the anger, and frustration amongst peace-loving people needed to be channeled towards a creative and productive future.

The three-day conference, entitled ‘Sacredness of Peace’, brought together Imams and Rabbis who seek to initiate peace dialogue between Judaism and Islam. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar urged the religious leaders to envision a violence-free, and stress-free world. “As the youngest speaker in the Congress, representing the oldest religion, I want to point out that we all have to remind ourselves, and our society that we belong to One World,” he emphatically said. “The world, and life itself are sacred, and no one has any right to destroy them.”

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was in Jordan on a day-long visit where he interacted with Mr. Amer Al Bashir, Deputy Mayor of Amman, and the first lady Governor of Jordan, Rabiha Al Dabas. Speaking at a public gathering in Amman, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said: “Self development, and stress release is especially important for Jordan, which as a safe haven in the region, is host to many people fleeing conflict, persecution and other hardships.” HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also said that he would like the youth of Jordan to undergo youth empowerment sessions to overcome restraints and realize their full potential. A center will be developed in Jordan which will take care of the mental and personal health of those residing in the Kingdom. This visit marked HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s second visit to the Kingdom. Working to create peace and foster human values
Global Humanitarian and Peace Visionary Ravi Shankar in Jordan

 

To galvanize peace building in Iraq, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar visited the war-torn country for the second time in less than two years. He met political leaders, and people from civic society to help rebuild the country, and restore its peace. While appreciating the work done by the Art of Living, leaders of the Shia Political Council requested HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to send medical doctors. Promising assistance in the health sector, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said: “The Iraqi people have suffered so much. The Art of Living is working to help reduce, and eliminate stress so that the people can be joyful again.” Mr. Safa Al Deen Al Safi, Minister of Justice & Education thanked His Holiness for all the trauma relief, and humanitarian work done by him. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also interacted with Mr. Ahmed Chalabi, Chairman of the Iraqi National Congress, and former Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq, to discuss different ways of helping the Iraqi youth.

Later at the Art of Living Women Empowerment Training Center, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar distributed certificates to Iraqi women who completed a training in tailoring skills.

Ravi Shankar’s stress buster plan for Iraq
HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Iraq - Zee News

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar hosted a landmark conference in New Delhi as an endeavor to end social discrimination based on one’s birth. The initiative has been hailed as an intervention that would help Indian society develop as a democratic society, and free itself from the shackles of the past. At the 'Truth & Reconciliation Conference', a large number of Dalit, and upper caste Hindu leaders vowed to end untouchability in India. They adopted a seven-point action plan to this effect. Addressing the gathering of over 5,000 people including leaders of about 25 communities, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, "We need to make people realize that discrimination is not sanctioned by religion. It's time to move forward, and not to reel in past mistakes.”

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar launched an initiative to create a ‘violence-free, stress-free’ America at an event at the John F Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington D.C. held to mark the Silver Jubilee of the Art of Living. The initiative envisages several programs to foster human values such as compassion, friendliness, a sense of brotherhood, and an attitude of service to society. On the occasion, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s proposed Universal Declaration of Human Values was unveiled. The Declaration provides a pragmatic vision for the world community, representing a roadmap to foster understanding, and harmonious coexistence among different peoples, and cultures. Drafted in the form of a proposed resolution of the United Nations General Assembly, this Declaration emphasizes the urgent need to rekindle human values in society in order to resolve the serious challenges facing the world today.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar took his message of peace, and human values to the red zones of Jammu and Kashmir during his three-day visit to the Valley. He addressed a seminar on peace, and human values at the Sheri Kashmir International Conference Center on the banks of Dal Lake. “While we must continue to preserve our cultural values, we will also have to modernize, in order to keep pace with the fast developing world," he said. In an effort to unite people of different faiths, he visited the Shariqa Devi temple, and Sheikh Hamza Mukhdoom's shrine in downtown Srinagar. He also visited the famous Sikh temple of Chatti Padshahi. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar inaugurated a middle school for young victims of militancy, and orphans from the 2004 earthquake. The school has been adopted by the Art of Living. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar interacted with inmates of the high-security Kothalwal Jail in Jammu, where 300 foreign, and local militants are also incarcerated. Promising to give up their violent past, and work for social progress, many of them shared their experience of the Art of Living Prison program. One inmate shared: “We supported militancy, and suffered a lot. We now really realize that if we had educated them (the militants), we would not have suffered so much. Thanks to HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, we now have the tools to transform Kashmir and bring back peace.”

In a historic initiative, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar led a large gathering of over 40,000 people to take a global pledge to nurture human values in all spheres of life. The event was part of a global event in which millions across the globe took the pledge to work in their communities, their schools, and in their homes to foster a sense of brotherhood, friendliness, compassion, and commitment to serving humanity, and this planet.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar visited Iraq on a three-day peace mission at the invitation of Iraqi Prime Minister, Nouri al-Maliki. It was for the first time that an Indian spiritual leader was invited to the war-torn country on a peace mission. During the visit, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar urged Iraqi leaders to give non-violence a chance. He met with a wide spectrum of Iraqi society including senior political figures, Shiite leaders, tribal heads, representatives of humanitarian organizations, women, soldiers, and youth. The Prime Minister requested HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to expand the Art of Living programs to more parts of Iraq, including the prisons. Following the visit, the Iraqi government sent 55 youth to the Art of Living international center to attend a month-long training. As a result, Iraq now has many more angles for peace.

To boost the process of reconciliation and restoration of peace in strife-ridden Kosovo, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar took his message of non-violence, and harmony to a wide cross-section of people during his two-day visit. He met with the President of the Judicial Parliament Council, Hyadjet Hyesni and Vice-President of the Alliance New Kosovo, Ibrahim Makolli. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also addressed the members of the United Nations mission in Kosovo. He also interacted with many war veterans. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar led a public meditation for peace for hundreds of people in Priština. The Art of Living has been working in Kosovo since 2000, helping war victims reclaim their lives.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar unveiled the 'Universal Declaration of Child Protection' to further the cause of child rights and protection. The declaration, drawn up in association with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), envisages that the two organizations will strive to lobby for protective legislation, and enforcement as well as identify and change attitudes, traditions, customs, behavior, and practices that violate child rights.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar led thousands of people from all walks of life in raising their voice against poverty, and taking a pledge to eradicate it at an event held at the Art of Living International Center. As part of the global initiative with United Nations Millennium Campaign (UNMC), the Art of Living mobilized over seven million people across the world to take part in the Stand Up and Speak Out campaign against poverty. In Bangalore, thousands from different parts of the world stood up, and took a pledge to help realize the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) set by UNMC. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar urged those present to be a source of light to those in darkness, and help them stand on their own feet. “To eradicate poverty, we need two things: instill self esteem in people, and bring sincerity on the part of the government. Both need to go together,” he added.

Nearly 200,000 farmers from six suicide-prone districts of the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, India gathered at Yavatmal to seek solace from HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. He was on a two-day visit to the Vidarabha region to interact with the farmers directly. Many farmers came out of depression, and suicidal tendencies, after a comprehensive program was launched by the Art of Living. Stressing the need for adopting natural, zero-budget farming, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, “Excessive use of chemicals has poisoned soil, and is hurting yields. Grow alternative crops. If you are reaping only losses in cotton cultivation, grow groundnuts, or vegetables which fetch you more income.”

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar visited Nandigram to heal the wounds, and scars of the people following a protracted political feud in the area. After meeting hundreds of victims, HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar called for dialogs to end the conflict. “As the conflict is highly politicized, political parties will not be able to resolve it. NGOs and spiritual organizations have to play the role of peacemakers. What is needed is conflict resolution through dialog,” he said. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also offered to mediate between the opposing groups to end the ongoing clashes. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar went around Nandigram and interacted with the victims in different localities. He traveled seven kilometers on foot to reach out to people in an area where there were no concrete roads.

Thirty-four prominent world leaders, and over 200 participants, including corporate executives, scientists, and spiritual leaders, gathered in the European Parliament to discuss the urgent need for strengthening human values, and ethics in business worldwide. The program was part of the International Business & Leadership Symposium, a forum initiated by HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. At the forefront of the discussion was the topical issue of sustainability in the environment, and climate change. Dr Rajendra Pachauri, the director of International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC ) which shared the 2007 Nobel Peace Price, and former Prime Minister of Poland, Prof Jerzey Buzek were among the speakers along with former prime minister of the Netherlands, and co-founder of The Earth Charter Prof Ruud Lubbers, and former prime minister of Luxemburg Jacques Santer.

HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar became the first spiritual leader to address the Ethiopian House of Peoples' Representatives. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's two-day visit to Ethiopia was part of his global campaign for a "Stress-Free, Violence-Free World". HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar called upon members of the Ethiopian Parliament to work toward a “stress-free violence-free Ethiopia”. The Ethiopian government also felicitated HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for his humanitarian work across the world. HH Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's tour included meetings with several national leaders including Girma Wolde Giorgis (President of Ethiopia), Shetaye Menale (Deputy Speaker of the House), Princess Mariam Senna Asfa Wossen (Founder and CEO of Addis Wubet), Degife Bulla (Speaker of the House of Federation), and Berhanu Deressa (Mayor of Addis Ababa). He also met with the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council (represented by its vice-president Sheikh Elias Redman), and His Holiness Abune Paulos (Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church).