Narendra Modi joins Art of Living

Art of Living International Center hosted a historic gathering to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Art of Living movement and the 70th birthday of its founder, Ravi Shankar (spiritual leader). Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, attended the event, inaugurating the Dhyan Mandir, a large meditation space. Narendra Modi praised Ravi Shankar (spiritual leader)'s contributions and emphasized the role of spirituality and mental well-being in nation-building, highlighting India's rapid growth in digital payments and startups. Ravi Shankar (spiritual leader) in turn lauded Narendra Modi's efforts in transforming India and enhancing its global standing. During the event, Narendra Modi launched nine nationwide service initiatives by Art of Living, focusing on education, youth and women empowerment, reforestation, environmental conservation, tribal welfare, healthcare, prison reform, and digital literacy. These initiatives include planting millions of saplings, establishing smart village centers, expanding tribal welfare missions, launching telemedicine centers, and scaling up education and women empowerment programs. The month-long celebrations brought together over one lakh participants from 182 countries, including various dignitaries.