Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar predicts peace between India and Pakistan if terrorism ends. He calls for global leaders to bridge gaps and foster dialogue to resolve conflicts. He challenges India’s happiness ranking, emphasizing compassion and community in poorer regions, and advocates for emotional wellness programs for youth in the U.S.
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a prominent humanitarian and spiritual leader, foresees a potential for peace between India and Pakistan, contingent upon Pakistan renouncing terrorism. He stated, “You can’t encourage terrorism on one hand and try to be peaceful on the other hand” during a press conference in Washington DC on March 20, 2025. He believes that achieving stability in the South Asian region requires a commitment from Pakistan to cease violent activities.
Addressing global conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war, Gurudev urged world leaders to adopt a broader perspective for future generations. He highlighted the interconnected nature of modern society, saying, “We are one human family” and advocated for resolving conflicts through dialogue rather than aggression. His long-standing aspiration for a harmonious society is inspired by mentors of Mahatma Gandhi who lived nonviolently.
Discussing the World Happiness Report, Gurudev praised Finland’s top ranking, attributing its happiness to security and minimized future anxiety. He questioned Bhutan’s exclusion from the index and criticized India’s 118th position, suggesting it should rank higher, possibly 7th or 8th. “I see in India, the human values are much higher,” he remarked, asserting that joy is present even amid poverty, and urging for a more inclusive happiness survey across rural India.
During the World Happiness Summit on March 20, Gurudev emphasized the importance of inner peace for happiness. He stated, “Inner peace is essential for someone to be happy,” citing the role of stress in unhappiness. The Art of Living Institute teaches stress management to enhance communication and perception.
In a panel discussion, he advocated that governments should prioritize citizen happiness beyond basic needs. He observed solidarity in impoverished communities, noting, “There is more community feeling in the slums than in urban areas,” which shows compassion despite economic hardships. This led to his concern about the current mental health crisis among American youth and the rise of violence.
To address emotional well-being, Gurudev mentioned the introduction of SKY meditation programs in 145 U.S. universities, aiming to teach students emotional regulation techniques. During his talk with Harvard professor Arthur Brooks, he shared insights on various topics related to happiness and well-being, such as the paradox of seeking truth and the significance of love and suffering in personal development.
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar advocates for peace between India and Pakistan, contingent on the cessation of terrorism. He promotes a global vision for harmony, emphasizes the importance of happiness beyond socioeconomic conditions, and calls for wellness initiatives to enhance emotional well-being, particularly among youth. His teachings highlight the necessity of inner peace and community solidarity as foundational elements of a content life.
Original Source: newsindiatimes.com