An Evening of Music and Meditation, organised as part of the Viksit Bharat Ambassador program, commenced on Sunday, 14th April, at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Delhi. This mega event attracted over 30,000 attendees from various walks of life, including Art of Living disciples, educators, professionals, and esteemed guests from political and corporate spheres. The gathering witnessed a blend of spiritual enlightenment, cultural celebration, and discussion on a progressive discourse for the nation, graced by the presence of revered spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
At Indira Gandhi Stadium, Delhi, 30,000+ Delhiites gathered for 'An Evening of Music and Meditation with Viksit Bharat Ambassadors,' with Gurudev @SriSri as Chief Guest.
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
The @VBA2024 and @artofliving mega event celebrated India's journey towards development under PM… pic.twitter.com/wTIwWNn2UC
The evening's Chief Guest, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, illuminated the gathering with his wisdom and insights. Notable personalities, including Lok Sabha Delhi BJP Candidates, BJP Delhi leadership, Secretaries of important ministries, and senior corporate professionals, attended the event too.
Over 30,000 enthusiastic individuals came together at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Delhi for "An Evening of Music and Meditation with Viksit Bharat Ambassadors."
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
With Gurudev @SriSri as Chief Guest, the @VBA2024 & @ArtofLiving event celebrated India's remarkable progress under… pic.twitter.com/iEEs94KTHX
In his address, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar commended India's strides on both the economic and spiritual fronts, emphasising the admiration garnered from global powers. He particularly praised the initiatives of the Narendra Modi government, including Direct Benefit Transfer and fostering a conducive environment for start-up growth. He added that the direct transfer of funds into people's accounts and the flourishing ecosystem for entrepreneurs symbolise India's rising prominence on the world stage.
Watch: "India will definitely become the biggest superpower," says Sri Sri Ravi Shankar at the Viksit Bharat Ambassador Program (Evening of Music and Meditation, Delhi edition) pic.twitter.com/5w7aEyaJgs
— IANS (@ians_india) April 14, 2024
"Today, money is being transferred into people's accounts directly. Also, it's startling to see the growth of so many start-ups; the world is looking up to India with great hope and excitement," the spiritual leader said.
Sri Sri Celebrates India's Inclusive Growth: Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
"A government aims for the prosperity of all, following the principle of inclusive development, of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. While previous schemes often remained on paper, over the past decade, we've… pic.twitter.com/hR6Acaqdjt
"India's start-up growth is startling. The surge of entrepreneurs and start-ups has caught the world's eye, prompting a collective 'Wow, India!'" he added.
India's Startups Are Having A Global 'Wow' Moment
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
"It's amazing to see the surge of entrepreneurs and startups in our country. The sheer number of startups is startling. That's why the world is taking notice and saying, 'Wow, India!'" said @SriSri, the founder of @ArtofLiving pic.twitter.com/XCpXINpmKu
Central to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's message was the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating India's rich cultural heritage. He emphasised the inclusive nature of Sanatan Dharma, which encompasses all religions without harbouring ill intentions towards others. Stressing the need to shed the shackles of a slavery mindset, he urged citizens to take pride in their roots and religious identities.
Drawing parallels between India's spiritual landmarks and those of other religions, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar highlighted Kashi Vishwanath's significance as a demonstration of India's beliefs. He hailed the construction of the grand Vishwanath Dham as a pivotal step towards realising Viksit Bharat's vision.
"The resurgence of Kashi Vishwanath Temple signals the dawn of a developed India. Despite taking notice from leaders like Indira Gandhi and concerns voiced by Mahatma Gandhi, the temple grappled with infrastructure challenges for seven decades. Today, under PM Modi's leadership, the majestic Vishwanath Dham stands tall, in full glory," he said.
Kashi Vishwanath's Resurgence Indicating Signs of a Viksit Bharat
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
"Even the former Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, revered Lord Shiva. However, for 70 years, the Vishwanath temple in Kashi struggled with basic infrastructure. Even Mahatma Gandhi was dismayed by its condition.… pic.twitter.com/q6MUkBt5SX
The spiritual leader also noted a positive shift in people's behaviour, with an increasing pride in their religious and cultural identities.
"A cultural renaissance is underway in India, with people openly embracing their religious and cultural roots, celebrating their identities with pride and confidence," he said.
Indians Are Embracing Their Roots
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
"A significant change is happening in the country's system, as individuals proudly embrace their religious and cultural heritage. People are no longer hesitant to express their faith, but rather celebrating their identities," said @SriSri, the… pic.twitter.com/dJrNOBcjZ8
"This Ram Navami marks a historic milestone with the completion of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple after 500 years of wait. PM Narendra Modi's personal involvement and attention to detail, amid his other duties, deserve recognition. Today, India's commitment to both culture and science remains unwavering," he added.
Pace of Construction of Ram Mandir Defies Expectations
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
"Ram Navami holds a special significance this year with the completion of the grand Ram Janmabhoomi temple after 500 years. The hands-on approach of PM @narendramodi's in its construction and his personal attention to… pic.twitter.com/xkSaKbLwqO
"Tamil culture, despite its immense richness, remained undiscovered by many in our nation. Prime Minister Modi's recent emphasis on showcasing Tamil culture is a first. Surprisingly, Tamil is the national language in four countries, and Japanese has 70% Tamil influence. Regrettably, we've hesitated to embrace such a remarkable heritage," he said.
Prime Minister Modi's Embrace of Tamil Culture
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
"Tamil culture is incredibly vast and rich, yet it often remains unknown to many in our nation. For the first time, Prime Minister @narendramodi has placed significant importance on showcasing Tamil culture. Did you know that Tamil… pic.twitter.com/gDdsmEigDU
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar lauded Prime Minister Modi's leadership, particularly during global unrest, showcasing India's strength in diplomatic endeavours. He also commended PM Modi's steadfast leadership amidst global challenges, particularly in navigating the Ukraine Crisis. He highlighted India's rising global prominence as 'Vishwaguru Bharat', emphasising the prioritisation of Indian interests.
#WATCH | Delhi: At the musical and meditation evening for the Viksit Bharat Ambassador event, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar says, "India and all its citizens are great. India has the power to lead the world. India is already a Vishwaguru, but that 'Guru' is hidden, we have to get it out… pic.twitter.com/QyKG2rbtaK
— ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2024
"The way PM Modi mediated between Ukraine and Russia showcases our strength in global diplomacy," says Sri Sri Ravi Shankar at the Viksit Bharat Ambassador Program (Evening of Music and Meditation, Delhi edition). pic.twitter.com/NnKIAxpxBH
— IANS (@ians_india) April 14, 2024
"PM Modi's mediation efforts in the Ukraine-Russia standoff underscore India's robust global diplomacy. Amid pressures to take sides, India maintained a steadfast stance, offering hope when the world was on the brink of war. India's resilience prevented potential economic setbacks faced by other countries," he said.
PM Modi's Mediation in Ukraine-Russia Standoff
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
"Prime Minister @narendramodi's role in mediating between Ukraine and Russia shows India's strong global diplomacy. Despite pressure from both sides to pick a stance, India stayed firm. As the world is on the brink of a war, India's… pic.twitter.com/VpJPGhGxZQ
"Under PM Modi's leadership, India's global standing has risen significantly. We have a leader who values our cultural legacy, understands its people, and engages with the global community. The vision of Ram Rajya, ensuring fundamentals for all, is becoming a reality," he added.
The Vision of Ram Rajya is Coming to Fruition
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
"Under the leadership of PM @narendramodi's, our nation's global stature has soared. Our country needed a leader who comprehends our cultural heritage, understands the needs of our people, and is aware of the global community. The… pic.twitter.com/eOOb1RAzma
At the heart of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's message was a call for self-reliance and dignity. He cautioned against dependency on freebies and emphasised the importance of self-respect and integrity in personal and national development.
#WATCH | Delhi: At the musical and meditation evening for the Viksit Bharat Ambassador event, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar says, "We have never taken anything from anyone. No one can call me a 'Sarkari Sant'. No one can point a finger at us. We have never taken anything from any… pic.twitter.com/vzwuViF7HA
— ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2024
"Self-respecting Indians value self-sufficiency; even modest earners prioritise paying for their children's education. Let's guide those tempted by freebies towards self-reliance and positivity," he said.
The Self-Respecting Indian's Stance Against Freebies
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
"A person with self-respect would never seek handouts. Even a humble auto-rickshaw driver takes pride in paying for his child's education. This demonstrates the essence of Indian pride. When it comes to the nation, it's… pic.twitter.com/iGzxB8EfHx
Gurudev emphasised the power of inclusive development, epitomised by the 'Sabka Saath' principle, which drives India's transformative journey. He stressed the collective responsibility of citizens in shaping the nation's future.
Drawing attention to societal challenges, he also advocated for ending alcohol and substance abuse. He also underscored the significance of active participation in the electoral process, stating how each vote contributes to the collective voice shaping the nation's destiny.
"The New Education Policy heralds a departure from colonial legacies, offering ample opportunities for youth to thrive. India's march towards becoming a 'Viksit Bharat', unstoppable," he added.
Viksit Bharat Inevitable with New Education Policy
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) April 15, 2024
"After a long wait, we finally have a New Education Policy that departs from what the British had introduced. The NEP is creating opportunities for young talents to thrive and flourish. With this policy, youngsters now have the… pic.twitter.com/XR7brl24Pd
The event also highlighted the Viksit Bharat Ambassador program's mission to foster positivity and happiness, aligning with the Art of Living's principles. Through active citizen participation, the program seeks to realise PM Modi's ambitious goal of making India a fully developed nation by 2047.
The Viksit Bharat Ambassador Program aims to mobilise every citizen towards the collective goal of making India a fully developed nation by 2047, as envisioned by Prime Minister Modi. Through initiatives like this, ordinary citizens are empowered to contribute meaningfully to nation-building. As Sri Sri Ravi Shankar eloquently stated, India's trajectory towards becoming a global superpower is inevitable.
Watch: 'We are happy with the work of PM Modi; we want him to continue working like this,' say attendees at the Viksit Bharat Ambassador (Evening of Music and Meditation, Delhi edition). pic.twitter.com/BhsiJMeZAH
— IANS (@ians_india) April 14, 2024
Watch: 'Modi hai to Mumkin hai; he has done a lot of work for women's empowerment,' say attendees at the Viksit Bharat Ambassador (Evening of Music and Meditation, Delhi edition). pic.twitter.com/ISW3I1UiWh
— IANS (@ians_india) April 14, 2024
Watch: BJP leader Bansuri Swaraj attends the "Viksit Bharat Ambassador Program" (Evening of Music and Meditation, Delhi edition) and meets Sri Sri Ravi Shankar pic.twitter.com/cwHqrC3lYX
— IANS (@ians_india) April 14, 2024
The Vision of Viksit Bharat: 140 crore dreams, 1 purpose
The Viksit Bharat Ambassador movement aims to encourage citizens to take responsibility for contributing to India's development. VBA meet-ups and events are being organized in various parts of the country to achieve this goal. These events provide a platform for participants to engage in constructive discussions, exchange ideas, and explore practical strategies for contributing to the movement.
Join the movement on the NaMo App:
https://www.narendramodi.in/ViksitBharatAmbassador
The NaMo App: Bridging the Gap
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's app, the NaMo App, is a digital bridge that empowers citizens to participate in the Viksit Bharat Ambassador movement. The NaMo App serves as a one-stop platform for individuals to:
Join the cause: Sign up and become a Viksit Bharat Ambassador and make 10 other people
Amplify Development Stories: Access updates, news, and resources related to the movement.
Create/Join Events: Create and discover local events, meet-ups, and volunteer opportunities.
Connect/Network: Find and interact with like-minded individuals who share the vision of a developed India.
The 'VBA Event' section in the 'Onground Tasks' tab of the 'Volunteer Module' of the NaMo App allows users to stay updated with the ongoing VBA events.