[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E978]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                RECOGNIZING GURUDEV SRI SRI RAVI SHANKAR

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE QUIGLEY

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 24, 2026

  Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Gurudev Sri Sri 
Ravi Shankar in his 70th year and honor his 45 years of humanitarian 
and spiritual service through the Art of Living Foundation to 
communities around the world.
  Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was born on May 13, 1956, in Papanasam, 
Tamil Nadu. Before becoming a spiritual leader, Shankar studied physics 
at St. Joseph's College in Bangalore. He has been a tireless advocate 
for peace across conflict zones, eventually earning recognition as the 
Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honor.
  The Art of Living Foundation, founded in 1981, proudly commemorates 
45 years of promoting mental wellbeing, stress relief, conflict 
resolution, and meditation programs. A globally revered humanitarian, 
spiritual leader, and ambassador of peace, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar 
expanded the Art of Living Foundation through more than 180 countries 
and reached over 800 million people.
  Shankar and the Art of Living Foundation achieved international 
success for pioneering the SKY Breath Meditation, also known as the 
Sudarshan Kriya. Researchers and leading institutions worldwide 
recognize it as an effective measure in reducing stress, anxiety, PTSD 
symptoms, and depression.
  The Art of Living Foundation has contributed to a number of 
humanitarian causes, including providing educational support in India 
and improving water pollution in India. The Foundation champions youth 
and women's empowerment, rural development programs, and educational 
outreach initiatives.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask everyone to join me in recognizing Gurudev Sri Sri 
Ravi Shankar and the Art of Living Foundation on their 70th and 45th 
years, respectively, for their service to the international community.

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