From an early age it was apparent that Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was destined to lead a spiritual life. Even as a very young child he was often found sitting in peaceful meditation.
Recognizing his profoundly spiritual nature, Sri Sri's parents ensured that his education would encompass both spiritual and worldly knowledge. Throughout his teens, he studied with many renowned spiritual masters and became a scholar of Vedic literature. He dedicated his life to service and completed his traditional education, obtaining an advanced degree in science by age of seventeen.
In 1982, Sri Sri (pronounced, "Shree Shree") presented the world with the Sudarshan Kriya technique and started the Art of Living Foundation which teaches his programs worldwide. In 1998 and 1999, the Sudarshan Kriya technique gained global recognition when additional scientific medical studies confirmed its benefits.
To date, the Art of Living program, featuring Sudarshan Kriya, has been taught to more than a million people in more than 130 countries and is now widely used for conflict resolution, anger management and personal development. Sri Sri's programs foster health on every level: mental, emotional, physical and spiritual and reflect his extraordinary commitment to the upliftment of human society.
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar inspired and continues to guide numerous educational, charitable and humanitarian organizations around the globe. A few of these are:
"Art of Living Foundation" -- a nonprofit educational and humanitarian organization.
"International Association of Human Values" -- dedicated to encouraging and supporting cultivation of basic human values in societies throughout the world.
"Care for Children" -- a service program that provides children and their communities with food, medical services, clean water, clothing and education.
"ART Excel" -- All Round Training Course for Excellence, a stress-management and personal development course for children and teens.
"5-H Program" -- a holistic approach to social services focusing on: Homes, Health, Hygiene, Harmony in Diversity and Human Values. At-risk children are employed to help implement the 5-H Program in their communities.
"Prison Smart" -- a remarkable new approach to juvenile and adult prisoner rehabilitation.
In recent years, Sri Sri served on the advisory board of Yale University's School of Divinity and chaired the International Conference of Religions in Kyoto, Japan. In August of 2000, he addressed the United Nations Millennium World Peace Summit of Religious and Spiritual Leaders.
Sri Sri speaks internationally, reminding us that the great spiritual traditions have common goals and values. He encourages everyone to follow their chosen religious or spiritual path while honoring the path of others. His love, practical wisdom and wholehearted dedication to service inspire people everywhere.
