He is a multi-faceted social activist whose initiatives include conflict resolution,
disaster and trauma relief, poverty alleviation, empowerment of women, prisoner
rehabilitation, education for all and campaigns against female foeticide and child
labour. He is engaged in peace negotiations and counselling in conflict zones around
the world. His expertise in bringing opposing parties to the negotiating table in
areas such as Sri Lanka, Iraq, the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Kashmir and Bihar is
widely acknowledged.
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In 1981, Gurudev established The Art of Living, an educational and humanitarian
Non-Governmental Organisation that works in special consultative status with the
Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations. Present in 155
countries, it formulates and implements lasting solutions to conflicts and issues faced
by individuals, communities and nations. In 1997, Gurudev founded the International
Association for Human Values (IAHV) to foster human values and lead sustainable
development projects. He is also a co-founder of India Against Corruption (IAC).
He has reached out to an estimated 370 million people worldwide through personal
interactions, public events, teachings, Art of Living workshops and humanitarian
initiatives. Not since Mahatma Gandhi has one person united people of different
traditions and faiths into a spiritual communion across the length and breadth
of India.
He has brought to the masses ancient practices which were traditionally kept
exclusive, and has designed many self-development techniques which can easily be
integrated into daily life to calm the mind and instil confidence and enthusiasm.
These techniques have helped thousands overcome depression and violent and
suicidal tendencies. One of Gurudev’s most unique offerings to the world is the
Sudarshan Kriya, a powerful breathing technique that facilitates physical, mental,
emotional and social well-being.
Numerous honours have been bestowed upon Gurudev, including the highest
civilian awards of Colombia, Mongolia and Paraguay. In 2016, he was conferred
with the ‘Padma Vibhushan’, the highest annual civilian award of India. He has also
been conferred with 16 honorary doctorates from around the world. Gurudev has
addressed several international forums, including the United Nations Millennium
World Peace Summit (2000), the World Economic Forum (2001, 2003) and several
parliaments across the globe.
Gurudev is the Chancellor of Sri Sri University. He has also been appointed as the
Chairman of the Quality Control of India Yoga Certification Committee. He is
a member of the Amarnath Shrine Board (appointed by Government of Jammu
and Kashmir, India). He was appointed the Chairman of Reception Committee
for the 500th anniversary celebrations of the Coronation of Krishnadevaraya (by
Government of Karnataka, India). Gurudev is also a member of the Amarnath
Shrine Board (appointed by Government of Jammu and Kashmir, India).
He travels to nearly 40 countries every year, exemplifying his call to globalise wisdom.
His universal and simple message is that love and wisdom can prevail over hatred
and distress.
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