Sri Sri’s global appeal

“Many masters call me with affection, and I heed the call. I believe that no one religion, guru or philosopher is enough for mankind.”

What appeals to me about Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, who turns 50 tomorrow, is his emphasis on interfaith harmony and the universality of his message.

While rooted in the Vedic tradition, he is modern and broadminded. Sri Sri’s Art of Living (AoL) is perhaps the fastest growing spiritual movement.

He is popular both at home and abroad. His charisma flows from his accessibility, unconditional love for all and his simplicity—you feel he is closest to you.

Sri Sri scores with his simple yet profound and heart-warming sayings. Sample this:
“Meditation is seeing God in yourself. Love is seeing God in the person next to you. Knowledge is seeing God everywhere.”

Or savour this one: “The fruit of silence is prayer. The fruit of prayer is faith. The fruit of faith is love. The fruit of love is service. The fruit of service is peace.”

His nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize is an indication that a large number of people in different countries appreciate what he has been doing.

In a world where so much is happening to divide people, he is constantly on the move, travelling to all corners of the world, promoting understanding, harmony, justice, service and sacrifice. His call to humanity is to move from tolerance to love.

Sri Sri’s movement has taken up numerous service projects. I particularly appreciate their work for the development of villages, tribal areas and slums, and promotion of organic farming.

Only if our agricultural practices are in harmony with ‘samasthi’ (universe) can the farmer and we be happy and comfortable. I am fortunate to have enjoyed Sri Sri’s affection and seen how people of all races, religions, castes and creeds adore him in cities and villages in India and places like Venice, Washington and Israel.

DR Kaarthikeyan
The writer is director-general, National Human Rights Commission.