The Art of Living Foundation celebrated its 45th foundation anniversary on May 10, 2026, marking over four decades of spiritual outreach, wellness initiatives and humanitarian service under the guidance of spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The grand celebrations were held at the Art of Living International Center in Bengaluru and attended by thousands of followers, volunteers and dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Founded in 1981 by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the Art of Living began as a spiritual and wellness movement focused on reducing stress and promoting inner peace through breathing techniques, meditation and yoga. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the world’s largest volunteer-driven humanitarian organisations, operating in 182 countries with thousands of centres and millions of followers worldwide. The movement is particularly known for its signature breathing practice, Sudarshan Kriya, which is promoted as a tool for mental well-being and emotional balance.
The anniversary celebrations carried the theme “From Breath to Belonging,” reflecting the organisation’s journey from individual wellness practices to broader social and community service initiatives. Cultural performances, meditation sessions and spiritual gatherings formed a major part of the event, highlighting the movement’s blend of spirituality, service and global outreach.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who attended the celebrations in Bengaluru, inaugurated the newly built “Dhyan Mandir” at the Ashram. In his address, he praised the Art of Living’s contribution towards creating a stress-free and violence-free society. He said the organisation had helped spread India’s spiritual traditions and wellness practices globally while also contributing significantly to social development and humanitarian work.
The Prime Minister also highlighted how yoga, meditation and mindfulness have become increasingly important in today’s fast-paced and stressful world. He described Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as a spiritual guide who had connected people across nations through the values of peace, compassion and service. Modi further noted that the organisation’s efforts in education, rural development, river rejuvenation, natural farming and disaster relief had positively impacted millions of lives.
During the event, nine new social initiatives were launched, focusing on areas such as healthcare, education, environmental sustainability and rural empowerment. These projects reflect the organisation’s continued emphasis on combining spirituality with social transformation.
Over 45 years, the Art of Living has built a global identity not only as a spiritual movement but also as a humanitarian platform working in conflict resolution, prisoner rehabilitation, youth empowerment and mental wellness programmes. Its volunteers have participated in relief work during natural disasters and community-building projects in several countries.
As the organisation enters its 46th year, the anniversary celebrations served both as a reflection on its journey and a reaffirmation of its vision of creating what it describes as a “one world family” rooted in peace, well-being and service to humanity.