Noted Global Peace Leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Tours US

Los Angles, United States
April 16, 2011

Arrives in Los Angeles Today, Visit Features Meditation, Wisdom, and a Vision of a Violence-free, Stress-Free America

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, global humanitarian, peace maker, and founder of the Art of Living Foundation is leading thousands of Americans to meditation. After kicking off the “I Meditate NY” campaign at the prestigious Lincoln Center Avery Fisher Hall last week, followed by public events in several other cities Gurudev arrives in Los Angeles today. He will lead meditation for more than 2,500 individuals across a variety of public events from April 16-19.

Gurudev began his US tour with a public talk in New Jersey on April 9. Soon after, he led nearly 2,700 people in one of the largest group meditations in New York City on April 10. A goal of the “I Meditate NY” campaign is to make the benefits of Eastern wisdom accessible to everyone. The event began with written words from Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg who said, “Our residents proudly claim heritage from every corner of the globe, and our administration continues to promote innovative practices that help us all live longer, more fulfilling lives. I am pleased to applaud 'I Meditate NY' for helping New Yorkers refresh, recharge, and overcome the stress that can sometimes result from living and working in a city as fast-paced and dynamic as ours.” The audience comprised people of various ages and Backgrounds. Grammy nominee Chandrika Tandon, and world music Band Bhakti, set the stage with mesmerizing music that warmed the palate for the deep meditation that followed.

Gurudev remarked at the event, “Meditation brings an authentic smile - a natural smile from the depth of the heart. When one meditates, it improves their observation, perception and expression.”

From bustling New York City, Gurudev went to the serene Art of Living ashram in Uvalde, Texas, where he led sections of the Art of Silence course. The practice of silence has been used in different traditions and cultures as a tool for elevating consciousness. His next stop was Lakewood, Colorado where Gurudev spoke at the historic Mile High Church that is known for offering a forum to world renowned thought leaders.

Named by Forbes Magazine as one of the five most powerful people in India, Gurudev has inspired a global phenomenon of compassion and service through his campaign to create a violence-free, stress-free world. His initiatives in meditation and self development, conflict resolution, trauma and disaster relief, prisoner rehabilitation, youth leadership, and education have impacted lives of more than 30 million people worldwide.

About The Art of Living Foundation

Founded in 1981, the Art of Living Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) educational and humanitarian organization working in consultative status with the United Nations’ Economic and Social Council on initiatives related to health, meditation, education, sustainable development, conflict resolution and disaster relief.

Contacts

The Art of Living Foundation
Seema Kalra, 650-619-8523
Seema.kalra@artofliving.org
or
For The Art of Living Foundation
Seema Mathur, 512-297-4832
seema@globalvoiceproductions.com