The Founder

SRI SRI RAVI SHANKAR

INSPIRING CHANGE THROUGH SERVICE AND CELEBRATION

Detailed profile of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar(pdf doc)
http://www.srisriravishankar.org

Biography

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s message of compassion, commitment to society, and a universal understanding of life, has resounded ithe lives of millions worldwide. Through the regeneration of human values, he seeks global peace and development by inspiring individuals towards self-awareness joyful living and selfless service. His commitment to humanity is evident in his extensive travel to 175 cities in 2004.

Born in 1956 in Papanasam, India, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar studied with many renowned spiritual masters and became a scholar of Vedic Literature. By the age of seventeen, he obtained an Advanced Degree in Modern Physics, and later received an Honorary Doctorate from Kuvempu University, Karnataka, India.

In 1982, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar founded the Art of Living Foundation, which is now one of the world’s largest volunteer NGOs, active in more than 146 countries. In 2006, the Foundation celebrated 25 years of service and celebration in Bangalore, India where more than a record 2.5 million meditated and prayed for world peace.

In 1997, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar founded the International Association for Human Values (IAHV), which to date has development projects in 25,300 villages, bringing self-reliance and sustainability to millions of people. Through the IAHV, large volunteer relief efforts have been delivered across the globe. Aid has been provided to war stricken people in Afghanistan, Kosovo, Bosnia and Iraq. Trauma relief programs were launched for those affected by the earthquake in Gujarat, 9/11 in New York and more recently the tsunami in Sri Lanka and India. IAHV volunteers are continuously providing trauma relief and stress management in these areas.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar travels to more than 35 countries every year to reinforce the message that all religions and spiritual traditions share common goals and values. His simple message of love, practical wisdom and service encourages harmony and teaches everyone to follow their chosen religious or spiritual path while honoring the path of others. Those who have listened to him acknowledge the universal inclusiveness of his appeal.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is the recipient of numerous honors including “Bharat Shiromani” (Supreme Jewel of India) by the Home Minister of India (April 2005), the title of the Illustrious Visitor, Argentina (2004), Phoenix Award awarded by the Mayor of Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. (April 2002), “Guru Mahatmya” award by the Government of Maharashtra, India (September 1997), the title of “Yoga Shiromani (Supreme Jewel of Yoga)” by the President of India (1986), and many more. Sri Sri is also in nomination for the Nobel Peace prize 2006.

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