Global Celebrations of 45 years of the Art of Living Foundation

I touch and salute the holy feet of Bharat Mata - the Most Powerful and the Most Merciful. Bharat Mata ki jai!

On the occasion of global celebrations of 45 years of the Art of Living Foundation, the dignitaries sharing the dais with me, Hon'ble Governor of Karnataka, ShriThaawar Chand Gehlot ji; Respected and revered Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji; Members of the worldwide Art of Living family, esteemed dignitaries, and my dear brothers and sisters gathered here in such large numbers. It is an honour to join all of you here in Bengaluru on this historic occasion as we celebrate 45 remarkable years of the Art of Living Foundation.

Today is a celebration of a vision that has touched millions of lives across continents, cultures, languages, and generations. Forty-five years ago, a movement began with a simple yet profound idea, that inner peace is the foundation of outer harmony. From that beginning emerged a global humanitarian and spiritual movement inspiring compassion, resilience, clarity, and joy.

In a world marked by conflict and uncertainty, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji continues to inspire humanity with the values of wisdom, awareness, peace, and harmony. I have known Gurudev personally for many years and have observed him from close quarters. As vast as his spiritual radiance is, equally unique are his simplicity and naturalness. His smile, his humility and his affection touch everyone's heart. What makes his contribution extraordinary is the humility and humanity he embodies. Through meditation, service, education, rural development, environmental initiatives, and interfaith dialogue, the Art of Living has shown that spirituality has a great role in uplifting society.

About four and a half decades ago, this place was merely a dry, rocky, deserted piece of land - without greenery, without water, and without any sign of life. But when a pure resolve is connected with service, when sadhana comes together with care for nature, transformation is bound to happen. Today, that same barren land has become a green, vibrant and energetic centre.

Gurudev has placed before society an inspiring ideal in which our youth can carry the ancient and the modern together. A very large number of young people are actively associating themselves with The Art of Living, stepping forward to serve and to lead. Earlier, initiatives like Rock Satsang, and now creative efforts such as 'Bhajan Clubbing', are reviving our ancient wisdom traditions across the world, in the language of the modern age. From here we receive a clear message that modernity and ancient heritage are not opposed to one another, but are deeply complementary.

The youth here are integrating Ayurveda into their lifestyles. In natural farming, rejuvenation of rivers and water bodies, tree plantation and many other areas, you have made notable contributions. Your campaign to inspire the youth towards a drug-free India is extremely commendable and worthy of emulation.
India today stands at a unique moment in history-confident, aspirational, and increasingly playing a leadership role on the global stage. Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji's focus on civilizational wisdom, yoga, wellness, sustainability, and 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' aligns closely with the values of Gurudev and the Art of Living. It is heartening to see how India's spiritual heritage and modern global leadership are coming together to inspire a more compassionate and conscious world order.

Across villages and cities, conflict zones and classrooms, disaster-hit communities and centers of learning, countless lives have been transformed through this spirit of service. Gurudev has inspired millions to discover that strength and sensitivity can coexist, that success and compassion are not opposites, and that human values must remain at the centre of progress. Today, as leaders, citizens, educators, innovators, and seekers gather from around the world, this celebration sends a powerful message of love, harmony and peace.

On this landmark occasion, we also recognize the countless volunteers of the Art of Living movement-the silent architects of service who have carried this mission into every corner of the world. Your dedication reflects the living spirit of this organization. When you bring transformation in the life of even one individual, you empower an entire family. When one family is empowered, a whole community can change. And when this current of service flows across 182 countries, the vastness and impact of this silent seva become clearly visible. As the Art of Living Foundation marks 45 years of service, may this occasion strengthen our shared commitment to a more compassionate, conscious, and connected world.

In Indian tradition, we say:
'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'- the world is one family. Few movements in modern times have brought that ideal to life as meaningfully and as globally as the Art of Living. I extend my heartiest congratulations and deepest gratitude to Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji for his enduring contribution to humanity. May his wisdom continue to guide generations. May the Art of Living continue to inspire service and harmony across the world. And may all of us leave this gathering with renewed hope, renewed purpose, and renewed commitment to peace.

• Jai Hind!
• Jai Gurudev!
• Long Live Mother Bharat!

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