Bengaluru – In a historic moment of unity and inner peace, the World Meditates with Gurudev program shattered multiple records, earning recognition in the Guinness World Records, Asia Book of Records, and World Records Union. Organized by the Art of Living Foundation, the event united over 8.5 million participants globally through both online and offline mediums, establishing a new benchmark for collective meditation.
The event, held on the inaugural World Meditation Day, celebrated the transformative power of meditation in the modern era. Participants from over 180 countries joined in, symbolizing a universal call for harmony. The day began with a grand opening ceremony at the United Nations and culminated in a live guided meditation session led by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar from the iconic World Trade Center in New York.
Record-Breaking Achievements
The following records were set during the event:
Guinness World Records:
- Most live viewers of a guided meditation on YouTube.
Asia Book of Records:
- Highest participation in a guided meditation from all Indian states in a single day.
- Maximum participation from different nations in a guided meditation in one day.
World Records Union:
- Most views of a guided meditation on YouTube within 24 hours.
- Largest live audience for a guided meditation session on YouTube.
- Most countries represented in an online meditation session.
A Global Wave of Meditation
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s live session resonated deeply with participants. Addressing the gathering, he emphasized the essence of meditation:
“Meditation is the journey from thinking about what you know to experiencing it and then transcending beyond emotions to your inner being. To be healthy, sensitive, and wise, you must meditate. It’s not inactivity; it makes you dynamic and calm. Even a revolutionary needs meditation.”
The session was a profound experience for millions, aiming to establish global peace and harmony.
Widespread Support and Participation
The event received accolades from world leaders, celebrities, and participants. Renowned Indian filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani remarked,
“It’s fitting that the United Nations recognizes the transformative power of this ancient practice. There’s no one better than Gurudev to lead this initiative.”
Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin shared his personal experience:
“I practice Art of Living’s Sudarshan Kriya every morning, and it sets the tone for an amazing day ahead.”
The program saw enthusiastic participation from educational institutions, corporate organizations, and even correctional facilities, reflecting the universal appeal and impact of meditation. From farmer groups in India to embassies in Malaysia and Laos, the event showcased global solidarity.
A Beacon of Hope
The World Trade Center, once a somber reminder of tragedy, became a symbol of hope and peace as it hosted the largest meditation gathering in history. The program underscored meditation’s growing recognition as a vital tool for personal and global well-being.
The overwhelming success of World Meditates with Gurudev has paved the way for future initiatives aimed at fostering a harmonious and compassionate world. This record-breaking event is a testament to the transformative power of collective meditation in creating a better future for humanity.
