- Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address historic 45th anniversary celebration of The Art of Living in Bengaluru
- Over 182 countries to join global event celebrating Guruji Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s spiritual and humanitarian legacy
- PM to inaugurate Meditation Hall and launch nationwide initiatives on mental wellness, rural development and sustainability
- Month-long global celebrations to feature leadership summits, cultural festivals and prison reform discussions
NE NEWS SERVICE
AHMEDABAD, MAY 7
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the historic 45th anniversary celebrations of The Art of Living Foundation, scheduled to be held on Sunday – May 10, 2026, at The Art of Living International Center in Bengaluru. The occasion also marks the 70th birthday of its founder, Guruji Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, bringing together a global congregation from over 182 countries.
The event will witness participation from leaders, public servants, farmers, engineers, homemakers, CEOs, students, senior citizens, and thousands of international delegates, reflecting the widespread humanitarian and spiritual reach of the movement over the past four and a half decades.
Prime Minister Modi will deliver the keynote address and inaugurate the newly built Meditation Hall at the International Centre. He will also launch year-long national service initiatives focused on mental wellness, rural development, environmental conservation, and social transformation.
Under the guidance of Guruji Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a Global Meditation for World Peace will be held on May 13, 2026, with worldwide live streaming participation expected.
Founded in 1981, The Art of Living today operates in 182 countries as a global volunteer-driven humanitarian and educational movement. It has touched over a billion lives through transformative breathing practices like Sudarshan Kriya and large-scale rural empowerment and wellness initiatives.
As part of the month-long celebrations, several key events have been planned:
- Global leadership dialogues and summits on ethics in governance, business, media, education, arts and civil society
- Cultural festivals showcasing music, dance and artistic expressions from 182 countries
- Felicitation of “Unsung Everyday Heroes” across more than 450 districts of India
- Policy and thematic discussions promoting humane and sustainable approaches in industry and public services
- Prison reform and inmate rehabilitation dialogue scheduled for May 25–26, highlighting best practices and impact of Art of Living programs in correctional facilities
- BIMSTEC Youth Leadership Exchange in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, bringing young leaders from all seven BIMSTEC nations to the International Centre
As India strengthens its global identity, such gatherings extend beyond ceremonial celebrations. The Art of Living has long functioned as a key pillar of India’s soft power, translating ancient wisdom into lived experiences for millions across the world.
In this context, the 45-year journey of The Art of Living reflects India’s growing global confidence and cultural influence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: “The Art of Living has taught people to act with awareness, compassion and rooted values. This is the true essence of yoga. And that is why, today, when the world searches for answers to anxiety, conflict and alienation, it looks towards India.”
Guruji Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said: “A healthy society is one where every face reflects a smile. For the last forty-five years, we have been working towards that very goal.”
