-
Foundation and Early Development
The Art of Living Foundation originated from Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's mission to create programs and methods that help minimize stress levels while enhancing personal well-being. The Sudarshan Kriya breathing technique serves as the fundamental element in their teachings. -
Global Expansion-Late 1980s - 1990s
The Art of Living started its global outreach during the late 1980s and 1990s. Sri Sri traveled worldwide to spread his teachings and established centers in countries such as the United States, Europe, and Asia. The teachings began to encompass personal development techniques alongside community services and conflict resolution methods. -
Social and Humanitarian Work
The foundation expanded its humanitarian influence through multiple projects centered on rural development, education initiatives, and women empowerment. The foundation's significant projects encompassed the 5H program which aimed at rural upliftment through Health, Hygiene, Homes, Harmony in Diversity, Human Values and the setup of educational facilities in underprivileged Indian regions. -
Peace and Conflict Resolution
In Early 2000s,the Art of Living Foundation started participating in worldwide peace initiatives while Ravi Shankar worked as a mediator in conflict regions such as Sri Lanka, Iraq, and Colombia. He worked with community leaders to spread messages of peace and non-violent conflict resolution. -
Recognition and Awards (2000s-2010s)
The organization earned multiple accolades for its humanitarian work in addition to receiving United Nations recognition for advancing the Millennium Development Goals. Major international forums invited Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to deliver speeches which demonstrated the increasing influence of his organization -
30th Anniversary -2011
The organization marked its 30th anniversary with major events especially the World Culture Festival in Berlin that featured cultural performances and peace dialogues. -
World Culture Festival 2016
The World Culture Festival in Delhi brought together millions of international attendees for an ambitious global event. The event demonstrated how different cultures can come together to form unity while celebrating their unique differences and promoting worldwide harmony. Environmental impact criticism of the event attracted media attention. -
COVID-19 Pandemic Response (2020)
The Foundation responded to the pandemic by moving its programs online to remain accessible to people during their home confinement. Through its provision of free online meditation, yoga and stress relief sessions the organization supported mental health recovery worldwide -
Youth and Digital Engagement (2020s)
The Foundation increased its focus on youth engagement through various initiatives aimed at leadership and social responsibility. They also embraced digital platforms more extensively to reach younger demographics and provide online resources related to mental health and personal development. -
Art of living -GLOBAL NGO 2025
Today, the Art of Living Foundation continues to be a prominent global NGO with a presence in over 150 countries, engaging in activities related to inner peace, social development, and community service, while staying true to its founding principles. The organization emphasizes interconnectedness and holistic solutions to life’s various challenges.