PM Modi inaugurates Dhyan Mandir at Art of Living’s 45th anniversary event in Bengaluru

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 10 participated in the 45th anniversary celebrations of the The Art of Living Foundation in Bengaluru, where he inaugurated the newly constructed Dhyan Mandir at the organisation’s International Centre in the presence of spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

Addressing a large gathering during the event, Modi praised the organisation’s social and spiritual initiatives and said that society was “more powerful than politics and even governments”. He stressed that active public participation was necessary for nation-building and national development.

The Prime Minister said Bengaluru had contributed not only to India’s technology and services sectors but also to the country’s cultural and spiritual identity. Referring to yoga, meditation and pranayama as part of India’s spiritual heritage, Modi said these traditions were now inspiring people across the world.

The newly inaugurated Dhyan Mandir, a lotus-shaped meditation centre built at the Art of Living International Centre, has been designed to promote meditation, inner peace and holistic well-being. The event also marked the 70th birthday celebrations of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar alongside the foundation’s 45th anniversary.

During his speech, Modi highlighted the role of spiritual organisations in social transformation and environmental conservation. He urged the Art of Living Foundation to support initiatives related to natural farming, water conservation, reduction of chemical fertiliser use and sustainable lifestyles.

The Prime Minister also linked India’s development ambitions with mental and spiritual well-being, saying that a “Viksit Bharat” would be built by youth who are mentally calm, socially responsible and sensitive towards society. He said organisations working in areas such as meditation and mental wellness would play an important role in shaping the country’s future.

Modi further praised the Art of Living Foundation for its welfare initiatives involving rural development, women empowerment, tribal outreach, environmental campaigns and prisoner rehabilitation programmes. He said such efforts reflected the spirit of service and collective responsibility.

Founded in 1981 by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the Art of Living Foundation has expanded into a global spiritual and humanitarian organisation operating in more than 180 countries. The organisation is known for its meditation programmes, breathing techniques, stress-relief workshops and social outreach initiatives.

Ahead of the Prime Minister’s visit, elaborate security and traffic arrangements were put in place across Bengaluru due to the large gathering expected at the event.