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!
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Education holds transformative power, especially in the lives of those who need it the most. It is not just about literacy or job opportunities; it is about empowerment, self-esteem, and the possibility of a brighter future. The Art of Living Free Schools embody this vision by offering free, holistic, and value-based education to children in rural, tribal, and socioeconomically disadvantaged areas of India. What began as a dream has evolved into a movement, with over 1,262 schools across 22 states, providing more than 84,000 children the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
Bridging Barriers to Learning
Many of these children come from regions where poverty, child labor, and illiteracy are pervasive – Access to quality education, often a distant dream. For girls, in particular, these schools provide a silver lining. In areas where early marriage and domestic labor are the norm, education becomes a progressive tool, empowering young girls with knowledge, self-confidence, and the ability to envision a future beyond societal constraints.
Going beyond conventional academics, the curricula in these schools, integrates yoga, meditation, and value-based learning, promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This holistic approach helps students cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and a sense of responsibility.
Transforming Lives, One Student at a Time
Under the leadership of Bhanumathi Narasimhan, sister of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the initiative has expanded from a single school in Bangalore to a Nationwide movement. As Director of Women Empowerment and Child Care Projects, she champions holistic education for underprivileged children in rural India.
Her commitment to inclusive education integrates academics with personal growth, fostering self-sufficient communities and empowering children to break free from the cycle of poverty. The schools’ profound impact is seen in students who now aspire to become professionals and leaders, inspiring future generations to follow their dreams.
Priyanka N from Karnataka exemplifies how education can uplift an entire community. A graduate of Ved Vignan Maha Vidya Peeth School, she became the pilot of Bengaluru’s Namma Metro at just 21. As the first technical diploma holder from her village, Priyanka now encourages others to pursue education, inspiring 14 children from her village to enroll in the same school.
Ridalin from Meghalaya overcame immense odds. After losing her parents and growing up in an environment where child labor was rampant, she found refuge at a rural school in Bangalore. Through the support of her teachers, she excelled academically and in sports, representing Karnataka in national Taekwondo competitions.
R. Sai Srinath from Telangana, a brilliant student from Sri Sri Gnan Mandir School, worked part-time to support his family while cycling 2 km daily to school. Today, he is a successful electrical engineer at Tata Consulting Engineers in Chennai. He credits his teachers and Gurudev’s guidance for his achievements and aspires to give back to society.
Rajkumar from a Naxal-affected village turned his life around through education. Once a cattle grazer, he pursued his dream of becoming a lawyer with the support of the Art of Living family. He has now graduated in law and is pursuing his master’s degree.
At just 8 years old, Lingaswamy joined The Art of Living Free School in Guntur after his mother struggled to support him. Raised by the school’s teachers, he overcame challenges in higher education, resisting peer pressure and addiction. Now a sports teacher and district coordinator, he supports his family and inspires students at the same school. His journey is a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of mentorship.
A Beacon of Hope
These stories reflect the life-changing impact of the Art of Living Free Schools. By fostering resilience, confidence, and a love for learning, they empower children to break free from the cycle of poverty and dream beyond limitations. Through education, these students are not only transforming their lives but also inspiring change in their communities.
Written by Haripriya Vasudevan
