Art of Living and its followers

Art of living is loosing its impact because of its followers. Agreed, that right now it is one of the biggest NGOs in the world, with a following across several countries. However, from being a way of life, Art-Of-Living is being turned into a fashion statement by many poor souls.

This is a very unfortunate turn of events. Nowadays not all who join art of living are in search of answers to their questions. Some are joining it for networking purposes, or to appear spiritual and more humane to others. It is people like these that are misusing the art of living and its teachings to their advantage. In the process, art of living is acquiring a rather mixed image.

True, there are true seekers in this organization, who love Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji (lovingly refrred to as GuruJi) and are eternally grateful to him for giving the world a method (Sudarshan Kriya) to attain peace. Guruji, in himself is a sweet and loving human. There are umpteen followers, whose lives have been bettered by following GuruJi.

I, myself have had the good fortune of meeting GuruJi three times in my life, till now. And I proclaim I love him as a daughter can love a father. Just being near him, can bring tears in one’s eyes, such is his aura.

But as is the case with most good things that become too big. The social climbers will latch onto each new ‘Big’ thing to gain from it. Even if the Big thing is something that affects the lives and hearts of millions, these climbers are not bothered.

But as GuruJi has himself said…

“Much energy is wasted in trying to charm others. And in wanting to charm—I tell you, the opposite happens.—Sri Sri Ravi Shankar,Seva and the Art of Enthusiasm.”

As usual, Guruji has said it beautifully. There is no need for me to say anything anymore.

:)