"Unless we have a stress-free mind and a violence-free society, we cannot achieve world peace,” said Sri Ravi Shankar.
Strong words hold fervent impressions and Shankar knows the quintessence of harmony. The difference is, he is not just a man of words. He can walk the talk, not just in a country or continent, but also across the sphere.
Shankar founded the organization in 1981; it now operates globally in 151 countries. As an ambassador of peace, Shankar plays a key role in conflict resolution and spreads his vision of non-violence at public forums and gatherings worldwide. Regarded as a neutral figure with the sole agenda of peace, he represents hope to people in conflict.
His work has touched the lives of millions of people around the world, going beyond the barriers of race, nationality and religion with the message of a “One World Family.”
He co-founded the International Association for Human Values (IAHV) in 1997 to coordinate sustainable development projects, nurture human values and coordinate conflict resolution in association with the Art of Living. The foundation is working in an exclusive consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
Shankar also leads various humanitarian projects such as conflict resolution, disaster relief, sustainable rural development, empowerment of women, prisoner rehabilitation and environmental sustainability.
“Millions of volunteers,” said Shankar, “who have worked with such enthusiasm and love will continue to inspire millions more, reach out to all those areas where we have not reached and wipe all those tears that are yet there. The 30th anniversary is a celebration of achievement and a vision to do more service.”
The Official Celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the Art of Living is going to be celebrated on a big scale with a bigger celebration for the second time. The event is to take place in the flamboyant Olympiastadion (Olympic Stadium) Berlin, Germany on July 2–7.
The World Culture Festival is expected to bring together more than 70,000 participants from 151 countries in a remarkable celebration of diversity during July 2-3. The latter part of the celebration on July 3-7 will engage participants in mesmerizing sights, sounds and tastes of the world’s continents that draw closer together for the special occasion.
The Art of Living Jubilee Courses in Berlin will be held in the presence of Shankar. The World Culture Festival in Berlin aims to break a World Record with over 6,500 guitarists before July 2. Amateur and professional musicians alike will share the stage with stars in a celebration of world peace and intercultural harmony. The ticket price for participation in Grand Guitar Ensemble and World Record for Peace is 30 euros including the full two-day program in the festival.
The venue chosen for its historic significance and rich history is the Olympiastadion Berlin. A monumental piece of history that has survived the two World Wars. It is rated as a “Five Star Stadium” by UEFA and is equipped with the latest technology in illumination and sound. It was the chosen location for the 2006 FIFA World Cup and holds three Guinness World Records.
Various activities such as The Vegetarian Food Festival will be held on July 2. This is one of the biggest vegetarian food festivals in the world where visitors can purchase some of the most exotic ingredients and food from across the world — from Indian spices to Swiss chocolate. The Dance & Music A Universal Language section will enable visitors to enjoy music from around the world and also give them an opportunity to play ethnic musical instruments. Amongst many others is the Inter-Cultural Dialogue. This will involve various debates based on inspirational insights from world leaders, a women’s conference, a world youth festival and a conference on living human values.
There will be various programs held on July 3, which is destined to be another thrilling day, said the organizers. Activities include the World Continents Pavilions Peace Prayer Wisdom, Music and Meditation Vote of Thanks, a food festival, conferences, along with exhilarating music and dance.
The prices are arranged in the assembly of seating that is branched into different zones — the Blue zone 18-30 euros, Orange zone 28-50 euros and Green zone 38-70 euros.
The Art of Living Jubilee Courses are to be held in the presence of H. H. Sri Ravi Shankar from July 3 to 7.
Jubilee Art of Breathing Course from July 3 to 6.
Jubilee Art of Silence Course from July 3 to 7.
Rejuvenate & Refresh: Add life to life. This course might teach you the essence of Art of Loving yourself, while reaching out to the spirit of outlandish essence.
Thirty years in the spirit of service. A few significant achievements of the Art of Living incorporate the following:
