Interview/ Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Q/ It has been 45 years since you founded the Art of Living. How has been the journey?
It has been part of human evolution across the world. People have experienced a profound transformation in their lives, finding greater purpose and meaning. In conflict zones, many have discovered new hope and light. At a time when stress and loneliness have taken a significant toll on society, the Art of Living has served as a source of relief and resilience.
Q/ The world has changed drastically. Young people today are ambitious but often restless and drawn to shortcuts. How do you view this shift?
Earlier generations had to put in a lot of effort to access knowledge—they went to libraries, searched patiently, and there was no social media, or even mobile phones. Today, information is easily accessible, and people have many more avenues.
However, in this process, we have neglected personal development. Stress, attention disorders and a lack of emotional balance have crept into society. Values like humility, compassion and meaningful communication have eroded.
That said, the younger generation has many positive qualities. They are not as materialistic as the previous generation in many ways. What is needed is a balance between the mind and the heart. Life is a blend of the old and the new. Like a tree, the roots are old, and the shoots are new. We need both: timeless values and modern thinking.
Q/ Despite being hyper-connected, loneliness is rising. Is this the biggest crisis today?
Loneliness is certainly one of the major challenges. Another is that young people are oscillating between aggression and depression. At one moment, they feel deeply low; at another, they become easily agitated.
This is because we have not adequately addressed mental and emotional resilience. Inner strength and emotional health need far greater attention today.
Q/ In an increasingly polarised world, what role should spiritual leaders play in politics and global conflicts?
Values and ethics are fundamental. Ethics simply means not doing to others what you would not want done to yourself. Whether in business, politics, bureaucracy, sports, or entertainment, ethical standards are essential.
Spirituality brings a human touch to all interactions. It is not something abstract or ritualistic—it is a way of living. When it becomes an integral part of life, it reflects in everything we do and helps create a better world for everyone.
Q/ The Middle East is tense. How do you view the situation, and India’s role? Also, how do you assess Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s handling of the situation?
India has handled the situation well and has maintained a balanced approach. Prime Minister Modi has handled it well. This neutrality is important. If we take sides, we cannot act as a bridge for peace.
The conflict in the Middle East is not new. It is a complex mix of religion, politics, economics and power struggles. Because of these overlapping interests, it has become extremely difficult to resolve. That is why a balanced and constructive approach is crucial.
Q/ Have you been in touch with stakeholders in the region?
Yes, I am in touch with imams, rabbis and leaders across the world. We regularly engage in dialogue on how to resolve long-standing conflicts. I remain available for any peace initiatives.
Q/ Is there a risk of personality cults forming around spiritual leaders?
If leaders are focused only on self-promotion, they are not truly leaders. True leadership is about walking the talk.
In spirituality, one must focus on giving rather than gaining. When you are here only to give, you have nothing to lose. But when you seek validation or rewards, disappointment follows. Spirituality dissolves boundaries—it is about connection, not ego.
Q/ You graduated in 1973 and later travelled with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. What were your ambitions then?
I never had personal ambitions as such. I had a vision—that people were waiting, and I had something to offer. Even before the period of silence that led to the Sudarshan Kriya, I was teaching yoga and meditation. Spirituality has always been natural to me, like water to a fish. I grew up hearing stories of the freedom movement and was deeply influenced by teachers connected to Mahatma Gandhi.
During those 10 days of silence, something profound emerged—that is when Sudarshan Kriya came into being.
Q/ Can breathing techniques like Sudarshan Kriya complement clinical psychology?
There are over 700 research studies on Sudarshan Kriya and meditation. The benefits are well documented. Scientific studies show that these practices impact even the genetic level. Research has indicated that certain genes associated with diseases can be positively influenced through meditation. So while it is spiritual, it is also deeply scientific.
Q/ In a world of constant distraction, how do you define inner peace?
No matter what is happening in the world, everyone eventually sleeps. In sleep, you disconnect from everything—even your own body.
Meditation is a conscious way of achieving that deep rest. It allows you to find peace amidst chaos.
Q/ Some say spirituality has become commodified.
Why should marketing be seen negatively? If something is beneficial, it should be made accessible. Promotion helps people become aware. At a time when mental health challenges are widespread, we are not doing enough to promote tools that can help people. Sharing knowledge is not commercialisation—it is service.
Q/ Does India need more spiritual guidance in governance or less of it?
India needs authentic, scientific spirituality. Religion has its place, but spirituality is about inner transformation. That is what is needed today.
Q/ How do you view the growth of ayurveda and the Ayush system?
Ayurveda is a treasure, and its benefits should reach the world. We have been promoting it globally for decades. Kerala, in particular, has played a key role in preserving these traditions.
The Ayush ministry has done commendable work in documentation and standardisation. This is essential for wider acceptance and credibility.
Q/ Is the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ realistic?
A vision is essential. Without a goal, progress lacks direction. India’s youth are energetic and innovative. The rise of startups and new education policies are encouraging signs. In our university, in Odisha, there are 400 startups. And many [of them] have already been taken up by the Central government. The government is supporting startups in every manner, and that is really good. I am optimistic that India will continue to grow as a global knowledge hub.
Q/ Many young people are frequently switching jobs or are moving abroad. How do you address this?
We conduct youth empowerment and skill development programmes, encouraging entrepreneurship and self-reliance. A restless mind cannot learn or grow. Meditation helps build emotional stability and focus; it enables young people to make better decisions.
Q/ After a hectic schedule, how do you unwind? Do you watch films?
Every day, I meet thousands of people and listen to their stories. Each interaction is like watching a live film. That, in itself, is my way of unwinding.