"Education is this civilization's greatest leveler. It has the power to empower the weakest of the weak, bring peace to the world and alleviate poverty. It is often seen as the only lit path in the pursuit of happiness.” – GuruDev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

The Art of Living Free Schools is dedicated to offering free, holistic, value-based education to underprivileged children in rural, tribal, and socioeconomically backward areas of India. What began as a vision has now blossomed into a reality, with over 1,262 schools spread across 22 states, providing free education to more than 84,689 students. Students in these schools receive textbooks uniforms mid-day meals and, in some cases, transportation

All provided free of cost. The curriculum integrates the practice of yoga and meditation, ensuring a holistic approach to education. Co-curricular activities such as dance, drama, sports, arts and crafts, literary competitions, tree planting campaigns, and educational trips are also part of the curriculum, promoting the all-round development of each child.

The Art of Living International Center was not built in a day. Founded in 1986 with just a few tiny dwelling places, a small kitchen, a lovely little mantap, and a meditation hall. It used to be the perfect size to accommodate the visitors, and the volunteers back then. Fast forward to 2020, the Ashram has grown in accordance with the more than a hundred thousand people visiting it every year. In fact, every year the influx of visitors to the ashram is near-doubling. Why must the Ashram grow and expand? To accommodate these growing numbers of visitors, volunteers, and course participants, the ashram must accordingly grow and expand. After all, Ashram is everyone’s home and home is the place that welcomes all. Be a part of Ashram’s development initiatives.

• Lush green rooftop garden on the top with direct access.
• Additional 6,5000 sq ft of the plaza, public recreation space and gazebos.

• A large hall at lower level equipped with state of the art AV facilities.
• A main stage and a stage for performing homas enabled to conduct a variety of programs throughout the year at Ashram.
• Stage area is facilitated with full AV and video recording facilities.
• A full length digital screen at the back of the stage, digital screens in the hall for better facilities, a modern sound system with acoustical designs, and translators cabin.
• Zone wise arrangement has been provided for better management.
• The big hall is divided into multiple zones with its own separate entry and exit points, show racks, water cooler, etc.
• Abundant female and male toilet facilities.
• Souvenir shops and cafes, drinking water facilities, emergency evacuation systems, fire and ambulance facilities.
• Green rooms, backstage area with VIP lounge.

The Ashram stands as a sacred haven where souls converge to explore the depths of their being and manifest their inner truths in the tapestry of everyday life. What began as a modest vision has burgeoned into a thriving sanctuary over the decades, drawing in countless seekers and devotees in search of spiritual nourishment.

Beyond its physical structures, the Ashram's very essence is woven from the threads of love and devotion that bind its diverse community together. Each individual, whether through physical labor, expertise, or heartfelt contributions, has played a vital role in shaping this sanctuary of the soul. It stands not just as a place of worship, but as a living testament to the power of collective service, pulsating with the energy of countless hearts united in a shared journey of growth and transformation. As the years pass, the Ashram continues to evolve, guided by the spirit of unity and service that has sustained it for decades, and destined to inspire generations yet to come.

The Vedic Heritage Schools embody a revival of ancient wisdom, offering a gateway to the rich reservoir of knowledge enshrined within the Vedic scriptures. Founded by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, these schools are dedicated to preserving and transmitting this timeless heritage to future generations.

At the heart of the Art of Living Vedic Heritage School lies a comprehensive 8-year program, meticulously crafted in alignment with the syllabus prescribed by Karnataka Samskrutha University. Since its inception, the school has nurtured more than 170 students across 8 graduating batches, with a recent expansion into post-graduate studies beginning in 2015.

The curriculum of the school is multifaceted, encompassing Vedic studies, Jyotisha Shastra, Sanskrit language, and more. Complementing these traditional disciplines are modern subjects like English, computer literacy, and Indian Culture and Heritage, ensuring a holistic educational experience. Additionally, students receive rigorous training in sports and Carnatic vocal music, enriching both body and soul.

Under the guidance of highly qualified Vedic instructors, the present batch of 320 students is immersed in a nurturing environment that fosters both intellectual and personal growth. Beyond academics, students benefit from a range of support services, including free education, hostel accommodations, access to a well-stocked library, nutritious satvik meals, and medical care. Moreover, they are granted complimentary access to Art of Living children and teen courses, further enriching their spiritual and personal development journey.

Project Udaan : A Safe Haven for the Children of Indian Sex Workers

Under Project Udaan, The Art of Living today successfully runs a residential school in Pailan Kolkata, West Bengal which provides well-rounded education, nutritional meals, co-curricular development, emotional and social support to hundreds of children of sex workers.

The objectives of Project Udaan include mental and emotional support for mothers and children, fostering social leadership, holistic child development, improved health and hygiene, reduced school dropouts, and the establishment of a community center offering healthcare, education, and vocational training. The intervention incorporates the Art of Living's programs, medical camps, Sudarshan Kriya, vocational training, and e-learning initiatives.

Project Udaan seeks to heal the spirits and bodies of sex workers, combat diseases, and provide alternative livelihoods. It strives to restore dignity and hope to this marginalized community while also reducing the risk of HIV/AIDS transmission. The ultimate goal is to empower these women and children to lead healthier, more dignified lives as valued members of society.

On special occasions, we find joy in celebrating and sharing that joy with society through the act of giving. One of the most universally cherished gifts is the offering of good food. It serves as a ubiquitous expression of spreading happiness and fostering connection.

In many cultures, the act of sharing a meal holds immense significance, as it symbolizes not only sustenance but also the warmth of companionship and the generosity of spirit. The blessings received from those to whom we offer food hold profound value, enriching both the giver and the receiver.

During your own special moments, such as birthdays or weddings, you have the opportunity to extend this tradition of generosity by graciously offering food. The options are plentiful, allowing you to tailor your offerings to suit the occasion and the preferences of those you wish to honor. Whether it's a lavish feast or a simple yet heartfelt gesture, the act of sharing food brings people together, fostering a sense of community and celebration.

Education is the key to unlock a world of everlasting happiness; a sentiment perfectly aligned with the essence of World Happiness Day. It empowers individuals to dream, achieve, and lead fulfilling lives. Through education, one gains independence—not just in making informed decisions, but also in carving a path to self-reliance. At the same time, it fosters an understanding of the deep interconnectedness that binds us all, teaching the value of interdependence in our communities and beyond.

Education not only fulfills personal aspirations but also acts as a cornerstone for societal progress. A well-educated society thrives on mutual respect, innovation, and collaboration. It bridges gaps, dismantles barriers, and paves the way for sustainable development and harmony. On World Happiness Day, let us celebrate education as a universal force that inspires joy, uplifts spirits, and creates a ripple effect of positivity across the world.

Since last 4 decades Art of Living under the blessings of GuruDev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar provided education to thousands of students and is continuing these activities to build a nation.

Let us donate for a cause to spread education and bring a real everlasting smile on face of society!!