India (Commonwealth Union)_ The Art of Living International Center in Bengaluru turned into a sea of spirituality, celebration and global unity as Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for the organisation’s 45th anniversary celebrations. The occasion also marked the 70th birthday of the spiritual leader, drawing thousands of people from across India and around the world to the sprawling ashram campus. From early morning, the atmosphere at the venue reflected the scale of the event. Devotees, volunteers, dignitaries, artists and international guests gathered in large numbers, filling the campus with chants, music and cultural performances.
The celebrations were not limited to a single ceremony but formed part of a month-long programme focused on spirituality, service, leadership and social transformation. The Prime Minister’s arrival added further excitement to the gathering. He was welcomed warmly by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and senior members of the organisation before proceeding to the main venue at the Vishalakshi Mantap, where thousands had assembled for the celebrations.
A gathering of global voices – Guest list
The event brought together more than one lakh participants from 182 countries, making it one of the largest international gatherings hosted by the organisation in recent years. The audience included union ministers, governors, members of Parliament, diplomats, entrepreneurs, civil servants, educators, farmers and social workers. International delegates and people associated with various humanitarian programmes of the Art of Living also attended. Among them were individuals who had participated in rural development initiatives, youth leadership programmes and prison rehabilitation projects conducted by the organisation over the years.
Furthermore, several prominent personalities from the worlds of cinema, business and spirituality were also present. Actor Rajinikanth, Bollywood star Aamir Khan, actor Kartik Aaryan, filmmaker Sajid Nadiadwala, actor Vikrant Massey and philanthropist Mahaveer Jain were among the notable guests who attended the celebrations. The event also saw the participation of spiritual leaders and wellness practitioners from different traditions, reflecting the organisation’s growing international influence over the past four and a half decades.
Prime Minister Modi’s address draws loud applause
Addressing the massive gathering, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on his 70th birthday and praised the contribution of the Art of Living movement to society. His speech focused on spirituality, youth empowerment, environmental responsibility and nation-building. The Prime Minister described Gurudev as someone who represents India’s timeless tradition of sharing wisdom, peace and hope with the world. He recalled his previous visits to the Bengaluru campus and said every visit left him with a feeling of positivity and service. A lighter moment during the speech drew loud cheers from the audience when Modi, speaking affectionately to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, remarked that he belonged to him and credited him for where he stood today. The emotional exchange between the two leaders was met with applause and chants from the crowd.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the growing importance of mental well-being and spiritual balance in modern society. He said a developed India would require not only economic progress but also emotionally strong and socially responsible citizens. According to him, yoga, meditation and spiritual awareness would play an important role in shaping the country’s future. He encouraged the Art of Living community to actively support environmental causes such as natural farming, water conservation and ecological awareness. Modi stressed that people’s participation remained essential for nation-building and added that society often possesses greater transformational power than politics or governments alone.
Bengaluru celebrated as a spiritual and technology hub
During his speech, the Prime Minister also spoke about Bengaluru’s unique identity. While the city is globally recognised for technology, software and innovation, he said it has equally emerged as an important centre for spirituality and meditation. He noted that ancient Indian practices such as yoga, pranayama and meditation are gaining acceptance across the world as people increasingly search for peace and emotional balance in fast-paced modern lives. Comparing the growth of the Art of Living movement to a banyan tree, Modi said the organisation started as a small initiative but has now spread its branches across the globe. He remarked that during his international travels, he frequently meets people associated with the Art of Living community in different countries.
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar speaks about India’s transformation
Welcoming the Prime Minister, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar reflected on India’s transformation in recent years and the sense of confidence visible among citizens today. He praised Modi for initiatives related to cleanliness, development and national progress, saying the country today feels more secure, organised and hopeful. According to Gurudev, India’s image globally has also undergone a major change over the last decade. He said there was a time when many doubted India’s ability to rise on the global stage, but the country has proved critics wrong through its achievements and growing international influence.
Gurudev also recalled the early years of the Art of Living movement and spoke about the diverse group of people who supported the organisation during its foundation. He shared that even individuals with entirely different worldviews came together because they believed in the vision of building a happier and healthier society. Reflecting on the organisation’s 45-year journey, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said the mission had always been simple: to bring smiles to people’s faces and create a stress-free society rooted in compassion and human values.
Grand inauguration of the Dhyan Mandir
One of the biggest highlights of the celebrations was the inauguration of the newly built Dhyan Mandir by Prime Minister Modi. The lotus-shaped meditation centre has been designed as a large spiritual space meant for collective meditation, chanting and global gatherings. As the Prime Minister officially opened the meditation hall, the audience responded with loud applause and chants. The newly inaugurated structure symbolised the organisation’s emphasis on inner peace and collective spiritual practices. Modi expressed confidence that the Dhyan Mandir would become a place of healing and peace for future generations. He said institutions dedicated to mental calmness and spiritual growth are becoming increasingly important in today’s stressful world.
The meditation centre has been built with modern facilities while preserving a deeply spiritual atmosphere. The structure includes a massive hall equipped with advanced audio-visual systems, digital screens, translation facilities and dedicated spaces for spiritual ceremonies. Organisers said the meditation hall was created to welcome seekers from
