Naidu highlights importance of spirituality for holistic progress

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu participated in the global celebrations marking the 45th anniversary of the Art of Living and the 70th birthday of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar at the Art of Living International Centre in Bengaluru on Wednesday.

Stressing the importance of spirituality in modern society, the Chief Minister said holistic progress cannot be achieved through economic growth and technology alone, but must also include human values, emotional wellbeing and inner peace.

Describing Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as a “global humanitarian and messenger of peace,” Mr. Naidu said he had successfully connected Bharat’s timeless spiritual wisdom with the modern world. He noted that spiritual leader had earned the trust of both common people and global institutions while carrying India’s spiritual heritage across continents.

The Chief Minister said that in an era dominated by Artificial Intelligence and rapid technological change, spirituality has become a necessity rather than a luxury. “The world has more information than ever before, but less peace and human connection,” he observed, adding that spirituality alone can bring balance and emotional wellbeing.

Sharing his vision for “Swarna Andhra @ 2047,” Mr. Naidu said Andhra Pradesh aims to become not only an IT and infrastructure hub but also a destination for spirituality, wellness and happiness. Referring to Tirupati as the spiritual heart of the State, he highlighted efforts to strengthen spiritual tourism, yoga, Ayurveda and wellness ecosystems across Andhra Pradesh.

Recalling his nearly three-decade association with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the Chief Minister said Art of Living programmes conducted earlier for ministers, MPs, MLAs and senior officials had helped improve stress management, emotional balance and value-based governance.

Meanwhile, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar praised Mr. Naidu’s governance and credited him for empowering Telugu youth and driving Hyderabad’s global IT growth. Several national leaders and dignitaries attended the celebrations, which concluded with a meditation session led by the spiritual guru.