Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and HH The Dalai Lama

I have had the honor and privilege of spending time with Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in his Bangalore, India ashram, The Art of Living International Center.

I was there in early 1993 during an International Silence Program. Two of my roommates were from Holland, the others from the USA.

We had a wonderful time being in silence for 7 days. Gurudev led us in “Hollow and Empty” meditations where we emptied out all that was inside us and allowed ourselves to become hollow so the Divine Light could enter in.

We traveled into the City of Bangalore for a special Satsang and met Gurudev’s parents, Vishalakshi Amma and Pitaji. Of course, his dear sister, Bhanu Didi was also present, along with her family.

At that time, the ashram was small and barely developed with just a few Kutirs ( small cottages), a thatched hut for our daily meditations, and a larger hall for the evening Satsangs. There was a small kitchen where we ate the most delicious Indian food.

I will always remember my International Art of Living Family and the lifelong friends I have made during my time with them.

Jai Guru Dev, Happy Birthday Gurudev, May 13, 2025!

We all belong to you!