Gurudev Sri Sri Ravishankar - Gratitude & Grace Unlimited

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravishankar has touched, impacted, transformed, blessed my life in many ways over the last decade. It's his birthday today and I feel it's a wonderful occasion to express my gratitude to him and celebrate his presence in my life and that of millions of others.

1. Courses & techniques

More than a decade ago I walked into a workshop out of curiosity to know what is the Sudarshan Kriya (rhythmic breathing) technique. I was blown away when I experienced the technique. It became so dear and useful to me that I made it a part of my life. How it has blossomed my spiritual, social, creative life, health and well being is a topic for a book. I have written a lot about it over the years in blogs, articles, posts in various social media platforms. It's truly a life changer for those who know how to use it. But this was not the end for me. Over the years I have explored multiple other programs and techniques of Gurudev like Advanced Meditation Program, Sahaj Samadhi Meditation, Sanyam, Guru Puja, Sri Sri Yoga, Dynamism for Society & Nation, Volunteer Training Program, Teacher Training Program and each is a powerhouse and access to marvelous inner dimensions. No exaggeration. Of course my own effort, sincerity and steadfastness has helped me go deeper but the vehicle was undoubtedly provided by the courses, techniques and meditations.

2. Enlightened master

Only an enlightened master can unlock the mysteries and depths of spiritual world. I started 'getting' Vedanta only after I started listening to Gurudev speak on Upanishads, Gita, Ashtavakra. He gave me the entry pass into the realm of this ancient and supreme knowledge. After listening to him, I have read and listened to so many other masters and am able to grasp the message and nuances without difficulty. The greatness and beauty of Gurudev is that he can simplify and give you the concrete essence of even the most complex, esoteric and subtle philosophical subjects. He makes it as easy and obvious as a berry on your palm - Hastamalaka.

3. Impact on the lives of people

While my own experiences in the journey have been profound, what deeply touched me and moved me even more is experiences I heard from other people (who are now close friends). For ex. a lady who lost her young son and with him, her desire to live and smile. She lived like a zombie for many years before Gurudev came in her life and with him came a desire to live again, to smile again and to serve others and make them smile. Or take the story of this young man who was so deep into drugs that he used his college fees money for dope. The agony and pain his parents suffered on a daily basis was huge. And Gurudev enters his life and he is able to quit drugs. Completely. Not just that, he takes on the cause of youth empowerment and education and is successfully running many programs for that in his community. These are real people I know and am connected with. There are millions like them whose life has been transformed by Gurudev.

4. Upholder of Vaidic culture & traditions

Gurudev is an enlightened being and has transcended the need for rituals and traditions.
Despite that he participates in various vaidic traditions like Rudrapuja, Devipuja, Ganapatihoma, Chandihoma etc. so that others can benefit from the positive vibes and feel uplifted. The atmosphere is so divine and light when these ceremonies are conducted. It helps people know about their rich and ancient culture, take pride in it, and protect it for future generations. 

5. Service as a way of life

The number of service/seva projects that Gurudev has started and is run by Art of Living organization is immense. I have learnt what it is to serve and live a life of service after getting associated with some of the initiatives. One can know the joy and fulfillment of serving only by doing it and I'm so grateful to Gurudev for creating innumerable seva opportunities for all of us.

6. Living the values

While it is easy to preach, the hard thing is to live what one preaches. The beauty with Gurudev is he walks the talk. There is not an iota of gap between his words and action. And that inspires and energizes like nothing else. Just observing Gurudev is a great teaching in how to conduct one's life.

It's a great privilege and blessing that we have an enlightened & living master amidst us.

If you have not met him, meet him at the earliest opportunity. If you have not tried his techniques, try them at the earliest opportunity. If you have not read, listened to his talks listen to his talks at the earliest opportunity.

It will change your life. For good.