The government of Colombia will bestow their highest honor on Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Bogota on June 24.
It is in recognition of Gurudev’s peace work around the world, with special reference to his work in Colombia through his foundation, The Art of Living.
Gurudev will also receive the highest award from the Andean Parliament in Lima. The National Congress of Peru will also honor Gurudev.
“Your commitment in Colombia for more than eight years compels us to recognize your achievements in peace matters in our overwhelmed nation, and to thank you for the undeniable presence of The Art of Living in our country,” says Hon. Fabio Raul Amin Saleme, the Hon. President of the House of Representatives, (in a written note).
“We invite you to keep helping us in the construction of a more inclusive and less violent society, where we can accept one and other.”
The Hon. President has made a special mention of Sri Sri’s programs, which have taught meditation and the Sudarshan Kriya to thousands of people in Colombia, and to millions around the world. “Through this institution (The Art of Living), many have found an antidote to the stress they are undergoing daily, by practicing yoga and breathing techniques,” continues Mr. Saleme.
The Art of Living has been working in Colombia since 2006. Around 25.000 people have benefitted from The Art of Living’s programs including social projects, guided meditations, health and happiness and public events such as The Planet Meditates.
In 2012, Sri Sri was also given the highest civilian award of Paraguay and Argentina.