"Life is sacred. Celebrate life. Care for others and share whatever you have with those less fortunate than you. Broaden your vision, for the whole world belongs to you." - Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (From an article in the New York Times 10/2001)

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's message of compassion, commitment to society, and a cosmic understanding of life, has resounded in the lives of millions worldwide. Through the regeneration of human values, he seeks global peace and development by bringing about sustained individual commitment to joyful living, selfless service and self-awareness.

His commitment to humanity is evident in his extensive travel to 175 cities in 2004, inspiring people to work together towards a better society.

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 considered the fastest growing NGO by the United Nations. It is also the largest volunteer based organisation in the world, officially active in over 145 countries.

In 1997, Sri Sri founded the International Association for Human Values (IAHV), which to date has development projects in 25,300 villages, bringing self-reliance to millions of people.

Through the AoLF and IAHV, large volunteer relief efforts have been delivered across the globe including in Afghanistan, Bosnia, India after the Gujarat earthquake, New York post 9/11, and in Asia in the aftermath of the recent tsunami disaster. Volunteers also continue to provide trauma relief and stress management in places such as Iraq.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar travels to more than 35 countries every year, to reinforce the message that all religions and great spiritual traditions of the world, 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 honouring the path of others.

For more detailed information about Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and his extensive global work, please visit the official website of: The Office of His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.