India's spiritual heritage is making the world more conscious.

Bengaluru, The Vice President said on Thursday that India’s spiritual heritage and civilizational knowledge are inspiring the world to become more compassionate and aware. He praised Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s efforts to spread the message of peace, harmony, and human values worldwide.

On the occasion of the Art of Living Foundation completing 45 years, the Vice President launched five initiatives related to youth development, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and education. Addressing the event, he said that the Art of Living movement has emerged as a global humanitarian and spiritual force promoting compassion, tolerance, clarity, and joy. He said, “Living life should be an art. In a world full of struggles and uncertainties, you should enjoy your life every day.”

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is inspiring humanity through values such as knowledge, awareness, peace, and harmony, and providing mental peace to people in various situations. The Vice President also released a commemorative postage stamp marking the 45 years of contribution by Art of Living. The organization is working for personal well-being, social transformation, and global peace.

Moving forward with aspirations and a growing global role

Discussing the meaning of devotion, he said that devotion is not just worship of God, but a path to self-realization. He said, “Devotion is dedication. We must be dedicated to ourselves, our family, society, nation, and all of humanity.” He said he was surprised to learn that Art of Living centers are operating in 181 countries and that the movement has impacted the lives of millions of people across continents, cultures, languages, and generations. He said that India today stands at a unique point in history, where the country is moving forward with confident aspirations and a growing role on the global stage.

The Prime Minister’s emphasis on civilizational knowledge, yoga, fitness, and sustainability reflects this direction. Referring to India’s growing global role, he said that the country’s spiritual heritage and modern leadership together are making the world more compassionate. The Vice President mentioned the concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” stating that this ancient Indian idea considers the entire world as one family.

What is traditionally good should never be abandoned

Emphasizing the importance of staying connected to one’s roots and traditions, he said, “One should not forget their roots. One should not forget their village. One should not forget their family deity.” He said, “If you want modern development, it does not mean you should abandon your traditional values. Change is necessary. Change is the only permanent thing in the world, but we should only accept good changes. What is traditionally good should never be abandoned.”

The organization’s efforts in promoting Ayurveda, natural farming, river rejuvenation, tree planting, and a drug-free India campaign were also praised. Urging the youth to stay away from drugs, he said, “Your mind should be under your control. Your mind should not be under the control of anything else.” The Vice President praised the organization’s volunteers, calling them “silent artisans of service.”

Art of Living Foundation

The Art of Living Foundation is a global nonprofit educational and humanitarian organization founded in 1981 by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. It is best known for its stress-relief and self-development programs based on breathing techniques, meditation, and yoga, which have roots in ancient Indian traditions. The foundation has since expanded to promote peace, conflict resolution, and social service initiatives in over 150 countries.

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is an ancient<div class

Art of Living Foundation

The Art of Living Foundation is a global non-profit organization founded in 1981 by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, focused on stress management and service initiatives. Rooted in ancient Indian traditions, it promotes meditation, breathing techniques, and yoga to foster inner peace and social harmony. The organization has grown into a worldwide movement, known for its humanitarian projects in conflict resolution, disaster relief, and education.

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” is a Sanskrit phrase from ancient Hindu texts, notably the Maha Upanishad, meaning “the world is one family.” It embodies a philosophy of universal brotherhood and interconnectedness, emphasizing that all people and beings are part of a single global family. In modern times, this concept has been embraced by India as a guiding principle for diplomacy and cultural outreach, promoting peace and unity across diverse communities.