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.
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 the world's largest volunteer NGO,
active in over 140 countries. 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 to millions of people. Through the IAHV,
large volunteer relief efforts have been delivered across the
globe including in Afghanistan, in Bosnia, in India after the
earthquake in Gujarat, in New York for those who were affected
by the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and in Asia in the aftermath of
the recent tsunami disaster. IAHV volunteers continue to provide
trauma relief and stress management in Iraq.
Sri Sri travels to more than 35 countries every year to
reinforce the message that all religions and the great 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 is the recipient of numerous honors including the
"Dara Shikoh - National Award for Harmony 2005" by the Inter
Faith Harmony Foundation of India, “2005 Global
Humanitarian Award” by the state of Illinois, “Guru
Mahatmya” award by Government of Maharashtra, India
(September 1997), the title of “Yoga Shiromani (Supreme
Jewel of Yoga)” by President of India (1986), Phoenix
Award awarded by the Mayor of Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. (April
2002), the Title of the Illustrious Visitor, Argentina (2004), and many more.
organizational affiliations
The Art of Living Foundation
http://www.artofliving.org/
other related websites
http://www.srisriravishankar.org/
