Bengaluru, May 29: India’s Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated five national initiatives and unveiled a commemorative stamp on Thursday, marking the 45th anniversary of the Art of Living Foundation. The event took place at the Art of Living International Center in Bengaluru.
The Vice President honored the organization’s contributions to social, humanitarian, and global peace over the past 45 years by releasing the commemorative stamp.
The five new initiatives launched include the Youth Career Excellence Program, Faculty of Eastern Knowledge Systems, Art of Living Innovation and Entrepreneurship Incubation, Center of Excellence on Consciousness Studies and Human Potential, and Eco Peace. These initiatives aim to promote education, innovation, environmental conservation, and human development.
The event concluded a month-long celebration at the Art of Living International Center, attended by 678 distinguished guests from across the country and abroad, including political leaders, entrepreneurs, athletes, academics, spiritual leaders, diplomats, artists, and social activists.
Addressing the gathering, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan said, “Today we celebrate a great idea that has impacted millions of lives around the world. I was amazed to learn that Art of Living is present in 182 countries, working to unite humanity.”
He added, “This journey began 45 years ago with the belief that inner peace is the foundation of outer harmony. In these times of conflict and uncertainty, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar inspires people with peace, awareness, and human values.”
The Vice President praised Gurudev’s simplicity and personality, stating, “His smile, humility, and affection touch everyone’s heart. His greatest qualities are his humanity and humility.”
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar welcomed the Vice President, emphasizing that meditation has become a necessity in today’s world, not just a luxury. He noted, “The declaration of World Meditation Day by 192 countries signifies that meditation is now considered essential for a healthy, happy, and stress-free life.”
He added, “In life, three things should always accompany us—knowledge, meditation, and music.” Gurudev urged everyone to dream of a ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ where fear, stress, and hatred do not exist, stating that a peaceful and harmonious world begins with calm and balanced individuals.
Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot also participated in the program, expressing pride that the roots of this global movement are connected to the state. He remarked, “For over four decades, the Art of Living has promoted peace and welfare at personal, social, and global levels.”
The Governor commended Gurudev’s peace efforts, noting his significant role in resolving long-standing conflicts.
The five initiatives launched during the program are designed to address the needs of modern society. The Youth Career Excellence Program will provide training for youth in civil services and the hospitality sector. The Faculty of Eastern Knowledge Systems will connect Eastern knowledge traditions with modern education and research. The Art of Living Innovation and Entrepreneurship Incubation aims to support 500 startups with guidance, technical assistance, and initial funding. The Center of Excellence on Consciousness Studies and Human Potential will promote research and education on consciousness, mental health, and human potential.
Additionally, the Eco Peace initiative aims to eliminate single-use plastics, targeting a reduction of at least 100,000 tons of plastic usage annually by 2030.
During his visit, the Vice President toured Sri Sri Gurukulam, met with students, and visited various religious sites, including the Sri Sri Gaushala, which houses around 1,600 indigenous cows.
A highlight of the event was the demonstration of the Art of Living’s Intuition Program, where children showcased their innate abilities developed through special training.
The month-long celebration saw participation from many prominent figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, along with numerous leaders and actors from across the country.