Born in 1956 to an eminent family in Southern India, it was soon apparent that Sri
Sri Ravi Shankar was to be a rare and unusual figure. At the age of four he could
recite the entire Bhagavad Gita and by 17 he had completed his traditional studies,
including an advanced degree in modern science.
He is the only non-westerner to serve on the advisory board of Yale University's School of Divinity. His service organization, the "5H Program" offers social and community development projects with a focus on Health, Hygiene, Homes, Harmony amidst Diversity and Human Values. Many schools have been opened that provide basic education and vocational training to rural communities, as well as free medical camps and homes. Additionally, educational programs are offered to reintroduce the ancient knowledge in light of modern science.
In 1982, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar established the Art of Living foundation, as an educational organization designed to assist all levels of society in reaching their full human potential. His educational programs offer innovative tools for managing stress, resolving conflict, improving health and living life with more joy and enthusiasm. The foundation is a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in special consultative status with the United Nations.
In 1992 he launched the Prison SMART Foundation (Stress Management and Rehabilitative Training) to address the needs of individuals and professionals impacted by the criminal justice system. Programs are offered to prison inmates, at-risk youth, victims of crime and criminal justice professionals. Today, training programs in the United States and India are receiving national recognition as an effective solution for breaking the cycles of violence in society.
In 1995 Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was a speaker during the 50th Anniversary celebration of the United Nations. Since that time, his organization continues to work with a variety of NGO's (Non-Governmental Organizations) and UN groups to raise awareness of the need to focus on human values as a fundamental step in realizing universal human rights.
Many television and radio programs have been produced on Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's principles of effective living and peaceful co-existence.
He launched a world Human Values campaign in 1999 and his Association continues to work with other organizations around the world who are dedicated to similar goals for humanity.