Modi Promotes Meditation and Mindfulness at Bengaluru Event
Prime Minister says mental wellness and social responsibility are crucial for building a “Viksit Bharat”.
New Delhi, May 11 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 10 emphasized the importance of meditation, mindfulness, and emotional balance during a major gathering at the Art of Living Foundation International Centre in Bengaluru.
The event marked the 45th anniversary celebrations of the Art of Living Foundation founded by spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Modi inaugurated a newly constructed meditation complex known as the Dhyan Mandir and launched several nationwide volunteer and service initiatives.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that India’s vision of becoming a “Viksit Bharat” or developed nation could not be achieved through economic growth alone. He stressed that social harmony, mental strength, compassion, and civic responsibility were equally important for national progress.
Modi argued that meditation helps individuals develop self-awareness and discipline, which ultimately strengthens society and governance. He encouraged young people to embrace mindfulness practices in order to manage stress and contribute positively to nation-building.
The Prime Minister also linked spirituality with environmental responsibility. Referring to the Mission LiFE campaign, he urged citizens to adopt sustainable lifestyles by reducing electricity consumption, conserving water, avoiding single-use plastic, and promoting local products.
He highlighted Bengaluru’s transformation into a global technology hub while maintaining its cultural and spiritual identity. Modi said India’s future development model should balance innovation with traditional values.
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar reflected on the organization’s journey over four decades and praised the contribution of volunteers and supporters who helped expand the movement internationally. He said the organization’s focus remained on peace-building, education, mental wellness, and humanitarian service.
The event attracted spiritual leaders, volunteers, BJP leaders, and thousands of participants from different states. Security arrangements were strengthened due to the Prime Minister’s presence and the large public turnout.
Political observers noted that Modi’s participation in the spiritual gathering also aligned with the BJP’s broader emphasis on cultural nationalism and traditional Indian values. The government has increasingly promoted yoga, meditation, and wellness initiatives as part of India’s global soft-power outreach.
Experts in mental health and wellness welcomed the Prime Minister’s emphasis on mindfulness, especially at a time when stress and mental health challenges are growing among young Indians. Many believe public discussions around emotional well-being are becoming increasingly important in national policy conversations.
