Sri Sri moves two nations with one message

Art of Living Foundation founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has called upon people of India and Pakistan to recognise the voice of peace within and create a violence-free world.

Addressing a mammoth gathering at the Indo-Pak border at Wagah in Amritsar, Sri Sri said: "We are committed to follow the path of non-violence and peace. Standing here at the border, I can feel the wave of love and peace from across. I urge the citizens of both the countries to recognise the voice of peace within and create a violence-free world."

Hundreds of followers had also gathered at the Pakistan side to listen to the spiritual guru. Some on the Pakistani side were disappointed that Sri Sri had been denied the visa to cross the border.

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The spiritual leader visited the Indo-Pak border as part of his five-day tour to Punjab.

As part of his peace campaign, he inaugurated 'Saanjh', a musical concert in Amritsar. 

The concert based on the Indo-Pak peace mission saw artists from both countries showcase their talents on a shared platform.

On Thursday, November 11, the performance of Bhangra, organised by the Art of Living in Ludhiana, was considered for the Guinness World Book of Records for an unprecedented number of Bhangra dancers on one stage.

Sri Sri witnessed 2100 dancers performing the Bhangra at the event titled 'Mehran De Rang'.  

Cricketer-turned-MP Navjot Singh Sidhu, who was present at the event, said: "In our culture, a Guru holds the highest place. Today, if the youth are shown the right direction then they can not only change Punjab but the face of the whole country."

On Thursday morning, Sri Sri addressed more than 5,000 participants at the 'Exam Special -- Youth Empowerment Seminar' organised by the Art of Living at Punjab Agricultural University grounds in Ludhiana.

After answering questions ranging from peer pressure, parent-child issues, career conflicts and relationship woes, Sri Sri spoke on the rising drug and alcohol menace and urged the participants to shun drugs.

"You cannot be enthusiastic or creative if you fall into the trap of drugs. You will lose your smile. Life is enthusiasm, love and joy. Make a friend everyday and ask yourself 'What can I do for others?' and see how life blossoms," he said.

Carrying forward his mission of making Punjab an addiction-free state, he led a Drug de-addiction 'maha sammelan' in Jhakkar village on November 10.

"While Kashmir is the crown of India, Punjab is the face. If the face has blemishes, it does not reflect well. That is why de-addiction is very important. We should raise our voice against this in every temple and gurudwara," he said.

During his eventful Punjab tour, Sri Sri visited Chandigarh, Ludhiana and Amritsar.

Over a series of satsangs and public interactions he urged the people to drop all addictions, stop female foeticide, practice organic farming and preserve and protect desi cow and desi seeds.

Sri Sri's tour of Punjab culminated with prayers at the Golden temple and the Durgiana temple in Amritsar on November 13.