Bengaluru, May 10: The 45th anniversary celebration of the ‘Art of Living’ foundation, established by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, took place on Sunday in Bengaluru. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the chief guest at the event. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar welcomed the Prime Minister, calling him the country’s invaluable and esteemed son.
In his address, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar stated, “You are the precious and esteemed son of Bharat Mata, and we all hold you in high regard. You have influenced every aspect of life. You have strengthened the sentiment of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ globally and elevated the country to a new level of excellence, which makes us proud.”
He continued, “By lifting people from dirt, poverty, and chaos, you have given the nation a new identity. Upon taking office, you initiated the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, which has beautified the country.”
Ravi Shankar remarked, “There is now no sense of insecurity in the country. You have liberated the nation from violence and infused it with new energy. For a long time, we traveled abroad. Previously, people thought India could never become what it is today. You have proven those notions wrong. In the last ten years, you have transformed India from a country that asks for help to one that provides assistance. You have managed the economy effectively, even in challenging circumstances.”
He noted, “In Ayodhya, a grand temple now stands in place of a tent, housing Lord Ram. This has been made possible during your tenure. The sculptures and stones for the temple have been brought from Karnataka, the land of Hanuman.”
Sri Sri added, “In Karnataka, it is customary for the bride and groom to visit Kashi before marriage. Although the bride’s parents often prevent her from going, I now encourage everyone to visit Kashi after you have enhanced its grandeur.”
Highlighting the Prime Minister’s image as a development leader, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, “The new year begins in Gujarat. You have illuminated Gujarat first, and now you are brightening the entire nation.”
He remarked, “You have brought yoga to the world through International Yoga Day. Yoga and spirituality are our heritage. Similarly, you have elevated Ayurveda by establishing a separate ministry for it.”
Ravi Shankar emphasized, “You have promoted art and education. You have worked in the fields of industry and infrastructure. You have contributed to the development of every segment of society and undertaken every necessary task to improve the nation. Therefore, India takes pride in you.”
He concluded, “You are one of our own, so we will not thank you. Thanking our own makes them feel like outsiders. Our Art of Living message is also, ‘I am yours.’ You have come to your rightful place. May you lead the country for many more years to come.”
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