Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Sri Ravi Shankar at the The Art of Living International Centre in Bengaluru for the organisation’s 45th anniversary celebrations and Gurudev’s 70th birthday. The month-long event has brought together participants from 182 countries, including diplomats, policymakers, educators, entrepreneurs, civil society leaders, farmers and prison inmates rehabilitated through Art of Living programs. PM Modi inaugurated the Dhyan Mandir, a new international meditation and healing centre envisioned as a permanent space for collective well-being. Referring to the newly launched facility, Modi said, “Dhyan Mandir will become a centre of peace and solace for thousands of people in the coming generations.” Addressing the gathering, Modi linked mental well-being with national progress, stating, “The realisation of a developed future will be possible through youth who are mentally calm, socially responsible and sensitive toward society.” He further emphasised the role of collective participation, saying, “Society is more powerful than politics and governments.” Welcoming the Prime Minister, Gurudev Ravi Shankar praised India’s transformation and growing global influence. “Today, Mother India and the people of India walk with pride because you have taken India to a new level,” he said. The celebrations will culminate on May 13 with a Global Meditation for World Peace led by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, reinforcing the organisation’s broader message of mental wellness, social harmony and community-driven transformation. (PC: X/Narendramodi)