Born on May 13, 1956, Ravi Shankar is generally known as Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a globally recognized spiritual leader and humanitarian guru. Devotees often address him with reverence using the title “Sri Sri.” He is the founder of the Art of Living Foundation.
Philosophy:
Ravi Shankar suggests that breath serves as a link between the body and mind, connecting the two. He emphasizes its use in calming the mind. Additionally, he advocates for serving others as a means for individuals to find peace. He does not see science and spirituality as contradictory but rather complementary. His efforts are directed towards creating a world where people are spiritually enriched, enabling them to stay away from stress and violence.
In 2001, when terrorists attacked the World Trade Organization, the Art of Living Foundation conducted free stress-relief courses for the people of New York. The organization also established relief camps for those affected by the war in Kosovo.In 2003, responding to the invitation of the Prime Minister of Iraq, Ravi Shankar visited Iraq, engaging in dialogues with leaders from Shia, Sunni, and Kurdish communities. In 2004, he met leaders in Pakistan who were advocates of world peace. When the world witnessed the tsunami disaster, the foundation’s members were present to provide assistance.
The organization consistently works towards the upliftment of prisoners worldwide.
Sudarshan – Kriya :
The Sudarshan Kriya course, an integral part of the ‘Art of Living'[5] program, requires participants to express their interest in learning the practice and subsequently sign an agreement committing to not disclose it to others. This transformative technique is designed to infuse the body, mind, and emotions with energy, aligning them with their natural state. The course fees for Sudarshan Kriya vary in each country.
Controversies:
In 2012, during an event in Jaipur, Ravishankar claimed that some Indian government schools were laying the foundation for Naxalism, labeling a movement of communist groups in India as terrorist organizations. He asserted, “All government schools and colleges should be privatized. The government should not run any schools. It is often observed that children from government schools fall prey to Naxalism and violence, whereas children from private schools are not involved in this.” Subsequently, Ravishankar clarified that he did not intend to imply that all government schools promote Naxalism. He provided a clarification on his Twitter account, stating, “I specifically mentioned the ailing government schools in Naxal-affected areas. Many individuals supporting Naxalism have emerged from these schools. I did not assert that all government schools (where millions study) promote Naxalism.” In March 2018, he received criticism from political leaders for his comments, wherein he warned that if the issue of the Ram Temple was not resolved promptly, India might transform into Syria.
