Did Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Discuss Interfaith Harmony in Kashmir?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Importance of Peace: Both leaders emphasized the necessity of maintaining peace and harmony.
- Interfaith Dialogue: Sustained dialogue was highlighted as essential for mutual understanding.
- Drug Abuse Awareness: Initiatives to combat drug abuse were a focal point of discussion.
- Meditation Promotion: Meditation was advocated as a path to happiness and resilience.
- Commitment to Youth: Support for youth and political prisoners was underscored.
New Delhi, Nov 13 (NationPress) Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a prominent spiritual figure and founder of the Art of Living Foundation, met with Mirwaiz Moulvi Umar Farooq, chairman of the Hurriyat Conference, at his home in Srinagar on Thursday.
During this amicable gathering, both leaders emphasized the significance of peace, compassion, and interfaith harmony in our contemporary society. This visit marks Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's return to the Valley after seven years, where he expressed delight at revisiting and praised its rich spiritual and cultural heritage, symbolizing coexistence,” as per a statement from Mirwaiz Farooq's office.
In welcoming the spiritual leader, Mirwaiz Farooq reaffirmed the Mirwaiz institution’s dedication to “peace and dialogue as the most humane and effective means to address conflicts and resolve differences.”
He also commended Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for his recent initiatives against drug abuse in Kashmir.
As they discussed Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's forthcoming visit to the Central Jail Srinagar, Mirwaiz Farooq highlighted that a “compassionate and humane approach should direct efforts towards the release of political prisoners and youth,” encouraging Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to “take on this responsibility.”
Both leaders concurred that ongoing dialogue and mutual understanding are crucial for fostering peace and human dignity.
Notably, on November 11, over 20,000 students participated in a significant youth event at Bakshi Stadium for the Edu-Youth Meet, where Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed the audience.
This event, organized by the Higher Education and Youth Services & Sports Departments, aimed to tackle drug abuse and promote mental health.
The spiritual leader encouraged the youth to adopt meditation, describing it as a part of Kashmir’s heritage and a means to achieve happiness and resilience.
He advocated for communal harmony, stating, “Life is too short for conflict; choose love instead.”
Previously, he engaged with Vice-Chancellors and Principals, promising to support the establishment of Art of Living Centres on educational campuses.
The event concluded with students pledging for a drug-free Kashmir.