Ambassador’s Speeches
AOL Session of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
AOL Session led by Hon’ble Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji
(Saturday, 8 February 2025, Yangon)
Speech by Ambassador Abhay Thakur
Hon’ble Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji
Excellencies, Respected dignitaries and peace-loving friends,
Namaste, Minglabar and Good afternoon.
Today is a moment of great joy and honour. The visit by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, India’s globally renowned spiritual figure and founder of Art of Living, to Myanmar, is a milestone in the age-old civilizational journey together of our two brotherly nations. Gurudev has dedicated the last four decades to promoting holistic wellness, social harmony and international peace, inspiring billions worldwide to lead happier and more meaningful lives. His visit to Myanmar is not only a spiritual journey, but an immense contribution to strengthening the bonds of friendship and shared culture that have connected the fraternal people of India and Myanmar together for millenia.
India and Myanmar share a bond beyond geographical boundaries, deeply rooted in Buddhism and Sanatan culture. Today is another celebration of our shared ideals and values, as Myanmar, blessed and enriched by Lord Buddha’s teachings, and India, where Lord Buddha attained Nirvana and the birthplace of Lord Ram, come together in a spiritual confluence, symbolizing peace and harmony.
Today is also a day to reaffirm and reinforce our belief in the universal values of peace and non-violence. Gurudev is a global ambassador of love and peace. His teachings have inspired harmony and social unity among the people everywhere he travels, and I am confident that Myanmar would be no exception.
Gurudev’s message has constantly guided the youth, who face stress and confusion, towards positivity. Meditation, yoga and Art of Living can empower them with greater energy and purpose.
Friends, in conclusion, let me share that when I was first asked by the Art of Living about Guruhji’s visit, I unhesitatingly advised in favour. Today, I am truly delighted and privileged to witness the sea of goodwill and support across Myanmar, including the esteemed Government and the people of Myanmar, for the visit and the sessions with Guruji. Thank you all so much. Equally, in a world struggling with conflicts, I hope today that Guruji’s visit will constructively nudge forward the process of peace and the message of compassion and brotherhood in Myanmar and beyond.
Thank you so much Guruji for visiting Myanmar, and thank you all for joining his Art of Living session today.
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