ART OF LIVING TO ART OF EARNING:The Commercialization under the lieu of Seva and Sadhna

The Art of Living (AOL), founded in 1981 by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, has long been celebrated as a global movement promoting stress relief, inner peace, and holistic well-being through yoga, meditation, and the signature Sudarshan Kriya breathing technique. Operating in over 180 countries, the organization has touched millions of lives with its programs, which range from introductory Happiness Programs to advanced meditation courses like Sahaj Samadhi Dhyana Yoga. However, in recent years, questions have arisen about the increasing commercialization of AOL's activities, particularly in its teacher training programs. A notable point of contention is the alleged requirement for aspiring Sahaj Samadhi Meditation teachers to collect or donate substantial sums—reportedly as high as ₹2 lakh (approximately $2,400 USD)—to become eligible for certification. This practice raises critical questions about the intersection of spirituality, accessibility, and financial motives within the organization.

The Commercialization of Spirituality: The Art of Living's Donation Dynamics and the Sahaj Teacher Program

The Sahaj Samadhi Meditation Teacher Training: A Path to Enlightenment or a Financial Barrier?

At the heart of the controversy is the Sahaj Samadhi Meditation Teacher Training program, which trains individuals to teach AOL's mantra-based meditation technique. Sahaj Samadhi is marketed as an effortless yet profound practice that brings practitioners into a state of deep inner peace, or Samadhi. The teacher training is positioned as an opportunity for dedicated meditators to share this transformative practice with others while deepening their own spiritual practice. However, eligibility for this program comes with stringent requirements, including having completed the Art of Living Teacher Training and actively teaching the Happiness Program for at least four to five years.

 For instance, course fees for advanced programs like the Art of Living Part 2 or Sañyam include tax-deductible donations, with some programs in the U.S. noting $1,500 of the fee as a donation. In India, programs like the Advanced Meditation Program list "stay and food donations" ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹9,000, depending on accommodation type. These fees, while transparent, have led some to question whether AOL's spiritual offerings are becoming increasingly commercialized.

  

More recently, reports have surfaced alleging that aspiring Sahaj teachers are required to collect  a donation of ₹2 lakh to qualify for the training. This figure, while not officially detailed on AOL's websites, has been cited in discussions on platforms like Quora and among former participants. Critics argue that this donation requirement creates a significant financial barrier, potentially excluding sincere practitioners who lack the means to meet this obligation. The practice has fueled accusations that AOL is monetizing spirituality, turning a sacred pursuit into a pay-to-play model.

 The Donation Model: Philanthropy or Profit?

AOL defends its donation-based model, emphasizing that it operates as a non-profit organization with a commitment to social good. Donations, including those for teacher training, are framed as contributions to the organization's humanitarian projects.

However, the lack of transparency regarding the ₹2 lakh donation for Sahaj teacher training raises concerns. Unlike course fees, which are clearly listed for programs like the Happiness Program or Advanced Meditation Program, the donation requirement for teacher training is not explicitly documented on AOL's official websites. This opacity has led to speculation about whether the funds are genuinely used for social projects or if they serve as a revenue stream to sustain the organization's sprawling operations. A 2006-2007 tax return from AOL's U.S. chapter reported total revenues of $5.5 million, with $3.5 million from course fees, indicating that program fees constitute a significant portion of the organization's income.

Critics also point to the hierarchical structure of AOL's teacher training programs, which require years of commitment and multiple prerequisites before one can advance to roles like Sahaj teacher. The financial demands, coupled with the time investment, suggest that becoming a teacher is less about spiritual calling and more about financial and organizational loyalty. This perception is compounded by anecdotes from former volunteers who claim that the pressure to collect donations can feel coercive, particularly for those eager to deepen their involvement with AOL.

 The Broader Context: Commercialization in Spirituality

The Art of Living is not alone in facing scrutiny over financial practices. The commercialization of spirituality is a broader phenomenon, seen in organizations like Isha foundation  and certain yoga franchises, where high fees for advanced courses or teacher certifications are common. In AOL's case, the organization's global scale and diverse portfolio—from meditation retreats to social projects—require substantial funding. However, the reliance on donations, particularly large sums like ₹2 lakh for teacher training, risks alienating participants who view spirituality as a universal right rather than a privilege for those who can afford it.

Supporters of AOL argue that the donation model ensures the sustainability of its programs and enables the organization to offer free services, such as education and disaster relief, to underserved communities. But Art of Living foundation has hardly contributed or no offical announcement by the organisation related to some major philantrophic work. 

To address these concerns, AOL could enhance transparency by clearly outlining the donation requirements for teacher training programs and detailing how these funds are allocated. Offering tiered or subsidized options for dedicated practitioners who lack financial resources could also ensure that the path to becoming a Sahaj teacher remains open to all, regardless of economic status. Such measures would align with Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's vision of a stress-free, violence-free world, ensuring that spirituality remains a beacon of hope rather than a commodity.

In conclusion, while the Art of Living continues to inspire millions with its transformative practices, the commercialization of its teacher training programs, particularly the Sahaj Samadhi Meditation Teacher Training, raises valid questions about accessibility and intent. The organization's ability to balance its spiritual ethos with its financial model will determine whether it can maintain its credibility as a force for global good in an increasingly skeptical world.

The Chilling Tale Behind the 1980 Horror Film Gehrayee: Tantrics’ Warnings and Haunting Aftermath

In 1980, a Hindi horror film titled Gehrayee sent shivers down the spines of audiences, not just for its eerie storyline but for the unsettling real-life events that followed its production. Directed by Aruna Raje, the film starred Padmini Kolhapure and Amrish Puri and delved into the dark world of black magic. What makes Gehrayee stand out, even 45 years later, is the chilling warning issued by tantrics to the director, cautioning her against making the film, and the disturbing incidents that plagued those involved afterward.

 The Genesis of Gehrayee: A Personal Connection to the Occult

Aruna Raje, a filmmaker who has won six National Awards, revealed in an interview with Bollywood Crypt that the inspiration for Gehrayee stemmed from her personal experiences. Growing up in Bengaluru, Raje recalled how her mother frequently found peculiar objects in their garden—small lemons marked with turmeric or vermillion, often associated with black magic rituals. These findings were not uncommon, as her father, a freedom fighter turned politician, was a target of such practices due to his political involvement. Intrigued by these occurrences, Raje decided to explore the theme of black magic in her film.

The script for Gehrayee was a collaborative effort, with renowned playwright Vijay Tendulkar among the three writers involved. Their research was extensive, involving interviews with individuals who shared bizarre and chilling stories about the occult. One such story inspired Padmini Kolhapure's character in the film. Raje recounted meeting a man possessed by the spirit of a Muslim girl from Lucknow. Astonishingly, when possessed, he would recite Urdu poetry and shayari, despite being Christian and having no prior knowledge of the language. These real-life accounts shaped the film's narrative, adding an authentic layer of horror.

 Tantrics' Dire Warning: "Don't Make This Film"

During the research phase, Raje consulted tantrics and practitioners of black magic to ensure the film's authenticity. However, their warnings were unanimous and ominous: delving into the world of black magic was dangerous, and making a film about it could invite catastrophic consequences. "They told us not to make the film, warning that all sorts of things would happen," Raje recalled. Dismissing the warnings as mere superstition, she pressed forward, believing they were simply crafting a fictional story for the screen.

 The Haunting Aftermath

The decision to proceed with Gehrayee came at a heavy cost. After the film's release, audiences reported unsettling experiences. Some complained of spoiled food, while others described eerie incidents that left them shaken. They began contacting Raje and her team, desperately seeking the contact details of tantrics to address the disturbances they attributed to watching the film.

For Raje herself, the aftermath was even more devastating. A few years after the film's release, her personal life unraveled. She went through a painful divorce, and tragedy struck when her nine-year-old daughter succumbed to cancer. These events left Raje questioning whether the tantrics' warnings held truth. While she initially brushed off their cautions, the string of misfortunes that followed left an indelible mark on her life.

 Gehrayee's Legacy

Gehrayee remains a cult classic in Hindi cinema, remembered not only for its gripping portrayal of black magic but also for the eerie real-life events tied to its creation. The film's exploration of the supernatural, rooted in real stories and experiences, struck a chord with audiences, but its legacy is tinged with the ominous warnings and tragedies that followed. Aruna Raje's determination to tell this story, despite the tantrics' advice, underscores the risks of venturing into the unknown—both onscreen and off.

As the film continues to intrigue and unsettle viewers, it serves as a haunting reminder of the thin veil between fiction and reality, especially when dabbling in the occult. For those involved in Gehrayee, the warnings of the tantrics were not mere superstition but a chilling prophecy that left a lasting impact.

TeamLease Digital supports HEINEKEN in setting up its First Global Capability Center in Hyderabad

India, 30th July, 2025: TeamLease Digital, is supporting HEINEKEN in establishing its first Global Capability Center (GCC) in the Asia-Pacific region, located in Hyderabad. The new center is expected to further strengthen HEINEKEN's global capabilities. 

 

TeamLease Digital is supporting the initiative by providing staffing and talent services, enabling HEINEKEN to pool selected support roles to deliver faster and more consistent services to its global operations. 

 

TeamLease Digital is executing on-the-ground workforce implementation through its local talent networks, domain knowledge, and operational capabilities. 

 

This development reflects the growing trend of global enterprises choosing India not only for scale, but also for innovation and strategic capabilities. HEINEKEN joins a growing list of multinational corporations leveraging India's digital ecosystem to drive global growth and operational excellence.  

 

Ákos Magyari – Director HEINEKEN Business Services, stated the company's strong commitment to use India as a strategic delivery and transformation hub. "HEINEKEN Business Services India is an addition to HEINEKEN's existing global network of connected hubs that will provide essential services and capabilities to Operating Companies within HEINEKEN. The business services network plays an important part in HEINEKEN's EVERGREEN strategy." 

 

The collaboration between HEINEKEN and TeamLease Digital demonstrates how ecosystem partnerships can enable complex global delivery models and highlights India's position as a key destination for global innovation and enterprise transformation. 

 

Neeti Sharma – CEO, TeamLease Digital shares, "We are delighted to partner with HEINEKEN on this landmark initiative. As more global enterprises choose India to accelerate their transformation journeys, TeamLease Digital remains committed to delivering compliant, scalable workforce solutions that enable our clients to build high-performing capability centers. Our collaboration with HEINEKEN reflects not only our shared vision for operational excellence but also the power of India's talent ecosystem to fuel innovation and growth." 

A Glimpse into Grandeur: Inside Hyderabad’s 138-Year-Old Kothi Where Raja Ravi Varma Once Painted

Tucked away in a serene lane off the bustling Bank Street in Hyderabad's Koti, where 25 banks once shaped a legacy, lies a hidden gem frozen in time: the Raja Tarmakdas family kothi. Built in 1887, this 30,000-square-foot heritage home stands as a testament to the opulence of Hyderabad's elite during the Nizam era. Beyond its weathered walls and intricate arches, the kothi whispers stories of artistry, tradition, and a fleeting visit from one of India's greatest painters, Raja Ravi Varma.

Stepping into the kothi is like crossing a threshold into history. The structure, originally designed with 108 openings—doors, windows, and ventilators, a nod to the auspiciousness of the number nine—sprawls across two levels. Its architecture is a blend of Indo-European elegance, with high ceilings, teakwood beams, and jali work that filters sunlight into intricate patterns. The courtyard, once alive with the chatter of Hyderabad's aristocracy, now basks in quiet splendor, surrounded by verandas adorned with faded frescoes.

The kothi's interiors are a treasure trove of art and nostalgia. Rare Kalamkari textiles, their vibrant dyes telling tales of ancient craftsmanship, hang alongside glittering Tanjore paintings, their gold leaf embellishments catching the light. Pichwai artworks, with their intricate depictions of Krishna's divine pastimes, add a spiritual hue to the collection. Scattered among these are memorabilia from the Nizam's glory days—ornate silverware, handwritten letters, and faded photographs that evoke a time when Hyderabad was a cultural crucible.

The kothi's most storied chapter, however, belongs to Raja Ravi Varma, the legendary artist who revolutionized Indian portraiture. In the early 1900s, Varma spent 40 days here, commissioned to paint a portrait of the Nizam. The monarch, known for his discerning taste, famously rejected the artwork—a decision that now feels like a footnote in the kothi's rich legacy. One can almost imagine Varma at work in the airy upper chambers, his brush capturing the essence of a bygone era, the scent of turpentine mingling with the fragrance of jasmine from the gardens below.

Today, the Raja Tarmakdas kothi stands as one of Hyderabad's last surviving havelis, a quiet guardian of the Nizams' cultural splendor. Its walls, though weathered by time, hold stories of artistry, ambition, and a city that once dazzled the world. For those who wander its halls, it's not just a home—it's a living canvas, painted with the hues of history.

Adani Enterprises to join hands with MetTube for copper tubes business

• Adani Enterprises is divesting 50% of its Kutch Copper Tubes Ltd. subsidiary to MetTube. Concurrently, AEL will acquire a 50% stake in MetTube Copper India Pvt. Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of MetTube

• The partnership aims to reduce India's dependence on imported copper tubes significantly

• Synergies between Adani's infrastructure capabilities and MetTube's global copper expertise will accelerate domestic production and innovation

New Delhi, 24 July 2025: In a move that will strengthen India's self-reliance, Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL) has entered into a Share Purchase and Shareholders Agreements with MetTube Mauritius Private Limited (MetTube). This is aimed at delivering next generation solutions to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry through their state-of-the-art facilities. This alliance is aimed at reducing India's dependence on imported copper tubes and building a robust domestic ecosystem for copper-based applications.

Under the agreement, Adani Enterprises will divest a 50% stake in its wholly owned subsidiary, Kutch Copper Tubes Limited, to MetTube. Additionally, Adani Enterprises will invest 50% in MetTube Copper India Private Limited, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of MetTube and operates a plant near Ahmedabad in Gujarat. 

MetTube, a part of the diversified Metdist Group, brings decades of global experience in manufacturing high performance copper tubes. Adani Enterprises, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, has already established advanced copper manufacturing infrastructure in Mundra, Gujarat, including the greenfield copper tube facility under Kutch Copper Tubes Limited (KCTL).

The dual investment structure ensures equal ownership and shared governance, enabling both entities to co-create a future-ready copper tube business, keeping in mind India's vision of improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.

"This partnership with MetTube is a strategic leap towards making India self-reliant in copper tube manufacturing. By combining Adani's infrastructure and operational excellence with MetTube's global expertise, we are not just building capacity—we are building capability " said Jeet Adani, Whole Time Director, Adani Group.

"India's copper tube demand is growing rapidly, and this alliance strengthens our commitment to the 'Make in India' vision with globally benchmarked manufacturing. Together with Adani, we aim to deliver high-quality, locally manufactured Inner Grooved copper tubes that meet international standards. This partnership reflects our shared ambition for sustainable growth and innovation." said Apurv Bagri, Chairman, Metdist Group.

The alliance leverages Adani's forward-integrated copper ecosystem—anchored by its 0.5 MTPA copper refinery project in Mundra—and MetTube's global manufacturing and marketing expertise. This synergy will enable scale and speed in copper tube production besides supporting India's green infrastructure goals by supplying high performance copper tubes for HVAC, renewable energy, and smart construction applications. The copper tubes produced will cater to critical sectors such as air conditioning, refrigeration, and plumbing, where demand is surging due to urbanisation and climate-responsive infrastructure needs.

Gujarat’s Dediapada Rallies in Rain for Chaitar Vasava, ‘Bye Bye BJP’ Slogans Echo Loud

Gujarat News: Tribal Support Overwhelms Dediapada as Kejriwal, Mann Slam BJP

Dediapada , In a powerful display of solidarity, thousands of tribal supporters gathered at Pitha Ground in Dediapada, Gujarat, braving relentless rain to rally behind Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Chaitar Vasava. The atmosphere reverberated with chants of "Jail ke taale tootenge, Chaitar bhai chhutenge" (The locks of the jail will break, Chaitar bhai will be free) and "Bye Bye BJP," as the tribal community expressed outrage over what they claim is a politically motivated case against their leader. The massive public meeting, attended by AAP's national convener Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Gujarat AAP president Isudan Gadhvi, and other prominent leaders, underscored the growing discontent with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the tribal belt.

Tribal Fury Against BJP's Alleged Injustice

The event, held amidst heavy rainfall, saw an unprecedented turnout of tribal communities from Ambaji to Umargam, showcasing their unwavering support for Chaitar Vasava, who is currently serving a one-month jail term following an altercation at an ATVT meeting at the Dediapada sub-divisional office. The AAP alleges that Vasava has been falsely implicated in a case orchestrated by the BJP to suppress tribal voices. The charged atmosphere at Pitha Ground was a testament to the community's resolve to stand by their "hero," as described by Isudan Gadhvi, who called on the BJP to witness the love and support for Vasava in Dediapada.

Arvind Kejriwal's Fiery Accusations

Addressing the rain-soaked crowd, Arvind Kejriwal, AAP's national convener and former Delhi Chief Minister, launched a scathing attack on the BJP, labeling it "despicable" and "corrupt." He accused the party of siphoning off ₹2,500 crore meant for MGNREGA, a rural employment scheme critical for tribal communities. Kejriwal further alleged that the BJP fabricated an FIR against Vasava, tampered with CCTV footage, and conspired to silence a vocal tribal leader. "The BJP's dirty tactics will not break Chaitar or the spirit of the tribal people," he declared, culminating his speech with the rallying cry of "Bye Bye BJP."

Bhagwant Mann's Bold Claims

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann echoed Kejriwal's sentiments, accusing the BJP of "selling the nation's water, forests, and land." He claimed that the BJP and Congress in Gujarat operate in collusion, and AAP has arrived to "sweep them away with its broom." Mann's remarks resonated with the crowd, who see Vasava's arrest as part of a broader pattern of oppression against tribal communities. He emphasized that AAP's fight is for the rights of the marginalized, promising to intensify their efforts to challenge the BJP's dominance.

Chaitar Vasava's Message from Behind Bars

In an emotional moment, Vasava's wife, Varshaben, read out a message from her jailed husband, who accused Narmada District Superintendent of Police Prashant Sumbe of playing a pivotal role in framing him. The message, met with thunderous applause, reinforced Vasava's commitment to fighting for tribal rights despite the BJP's alleged attempts to silence him. The crowd's response, marked by slogans and unwavering support, highlighted the deep connection Vasava shares with his community.

Political Tensions Escalate in Gujarat

The rally in Dediapada is the latest flashpoint in Gujarat's volatile political landscape. The tribal belt, a significant vote bank, has become a battleground for AAP as it seeks to challenge the BJP's decades-long dominance. Posts on X reflect the growing anti-BJP sentiment, with AAP leaders like Gopal Italia noting that a spontaneous bandh in Dediapada was observed in support of Vasava, signaling widespread public discontent. The BJP, on the other hand, has faced accusations of targeting Vasava due to his growing influence as a tribal leader and his vocal criticism of the ruling party.

Weather Update: Rain Adds Drama to Dediapada Rally

The heavy rainfall in Dediapada, part of Gujarat's ongoing monsoon activity, did little to dampen the spirits of the gathered crowd. According to the latest weather updates, Gujarat has recorded 471.85 mm of rainfall this season, 12% higher than last year's figures for the same period. The India Meteorological Department has forecasted continued rain across districts like Narmada, Vadodara, and Surat, with a yellow alert issued for heavy showers in over a dozen districts. The rains, while causing concern for farmers due to potential crop damage, provided a dramatic backdrop to the charged political rally in Dediapada.

National and International Context

The Dediapada rally has drawn attention beyond Gujarat, with AAP framing it as part of a larger fight against the BJP's policies nationwide. Kejriwal and Mann's presence underscores AAP's ambition to expand its footprint in Gujarat, leveraging tribal discontent to challenge the BJP's stronghold. On the national stage, the rally coincides with broader discussions on tribal rights and governance, while internationally, it highlights the growing role of regional leaders in shaping India's political narrative. 

Why This Matters

The Dediapada rally is more than a show of support for Chaitar Vasava—it's a signal of shifting political dynamics in Gujarat. With slogans like "Bye Bye BJP" and "Jail ke taale tootenge," the tribal community is sending a clear message of defiance. As AAP intensifies its campaign, the BJP faces increasing pressure to address allegations of corruption and suppression. The coming months will be crucial as Gujarat gears up for further political battles, with tribal voters likely to play a decisive role.

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Preserving the Sacred Legacy of Guru Puja in The Art of Living: A Call for Authenticity and Understanding

The Guru Puja, a revered ritual in The Art of Living, is a profound spiritual practice that connects practitioners to the timeless lineage of wisdom and divine grace. Rooted in ancient Sanskrit chants and passed down through generations, this sacred ceremony is neither invented nor discovered by any single individual but is a living tradition that carries the essence of devotion and surrender to the Guru. However, recent developments within The Art of Living, founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, raise concerns about the dilution of this sacred practice due to misunderstandings and arbitrary norms imposed by some officials. This article explores the origins, significance, and current challenges surrounding Guru Puja, emphasizing the need to preserve its sanctity and authenticity.

 The Roots of Guru Puja: A Timeless Tradition

The Guru Puja, as practiced in The Art of Living, traces its origins to the ancient Vedic tradition, with its chants, such as *Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwara*, echoing for thousands of years. These verses honor the Guru as the embodiment of divine wisdom, guiding disciples toward enlightenment. The specific method of Guru Puja, as practiced today, was formalized by Jagadguru Shankaracharya Brahmananda Saraswati, the Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath, who was the Guru of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Maharishi, taught various levels of TM practice to his disciple, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, who later founded The Art of Living.

While Maharishi Mahesh Yogi popularized Transcendental Meditation (TM), the Guru Puja was an integral part of the spiritual framework, serving as a ritual to invoke the Guru's grace before initiating students into meditation. When Sri Sri Ravi Shankar parted ways with the TM movement in the 1980s to establish The Art of Living, he carried forward the Guru Puja with a subtle yet significant modification. The chant in the TM tradition included the phrase *trigun rahitam* (meaning "beyond the three gunas" or qualities of nature), referring to the Guru as a transcendent, formless divine principle. In The Art of Living, Sri Sri introduced *trigun sahitam* (meaning "with the three gunas"), acknowledging the Guru's role as an active, physical medium through which divine wisdom flows. This change reflects the organization's emphasis on the living Guru's presence as a conduit for spiritual transformation.

The Role of Guru Puja in The Art of Living

In The Art of Living, Guru Puja holds a central place in the spiritual journey of teachers and practitioners. It is performed before initiating students into *Sahaj Dhyan*, a meditation technique introduced by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, which is essentially a rebranded version of TM. The ritual is not merely a formality but a sacred act of surrender and connection to the Guru's energy, which is believed to enhance the efficacy of the meditation process. For teachers, performing Guru Puja is a prerequisite, and their adherence to the ritual is evaluated through video submissions as part of their training.

The logic behind this requirement is deeply spiritual: *Sahaj Dhyan*, being a powerful practice, requires the Guru's grace to be fully effective. By performing Guru Puja with devotion, teachers align themselves with the Guru's energy, ensuring they can transmit the technique authentically to their students. The ritual involves offerings such as flowers, incense, and the *shriphal* (coconut), each carrying symbolic significance. The *shriphal*, in particular, is offered unpeeled, with its fibers intact, symbolizing the surrender of the practitioner's ego and senses to the Guru. This unpeeled coconut represents the raw, unrefined self, offered in its entirety to the divine.

The Current Challenge: Misguided Norms and Lack of Understanding

Despite the profound spiritual significance of Guru Puja, recent practices within The Art of Living reveal a troubling trend: nominated officials responsible for evaluating teachers' Guru Puja performances appear to lack a deep understanding of the ritual's essence. For instance, some officials have flagged what they perceive as "mistakes," such as the use of an unpeeled *shriphal*, insisting that it should be shaved or peeled before being offered. This critique is not only arbitrary but also contradicts the symbolic meaning of the *shriphal* in Guru Puja. The unpeeled coconut is a deliberate choice, representing the offering of one's unpolished self to the Guru, free from pretense or modification.

Such misguided interventions suggest a disconnect between the ritual's spiritual intent and the bureaucratic approach of some officials. The Guru Puja is not a performance to be judged by superficial standards but a sacred act of devotion that transcends rigid checklists. By imposing their own norms, these officials risk diluting the purity of the tradition and undermining the spiritual connection that Guru Puja fosters.

The Importance of Preserving the Sacred Legacy

The Guru Puja, as practiced in The Art of Living, is a continuation of an ancient lineage that has been passed down from Guru to disciple for generations. It is not an invention of any one individual, nor is it a ritual that can be altered based on personal whims. The chants and methods are sacred, carrying the weight of thousands of years of spiritual practice. To impose arbitrary rules, such as requiring a peeled *shriphal*, is to overlook the deeper significance of the ritual and reduce it to a mechanical process.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, as the torchbearer of this tradition, has a responsibility to ensure that the sanctity of Guru Puja is preserved. The introduction of *trigun sahitam* was a meaningful adaptation, reflecting the organization's unique perspective on the Guru's role. However, allowing officials to enforce uninformed standards risks eroding the authenticity of the practice. Teachers and practitioners must be educated about the ritual's symbolism and spiritual purpose, ensuring that Guru Puja remains a heartfelt act of devotion rather than a box to be checked.

 A Call to Action: Restoring Authenticity

To safeguard the sacred legacy of Guru Puja, several steps can be taken:

1. Education and Training: The Art of Living should prioritize educating teachers and officials about the spiritual and symbolic significance of Guru Puja. This includes clarifying the meaning of offerings like the *shriphal* and emphasizing the importance of devotion over perfection.

2. Standardized Guidelines: While the ritual should not be rigid, clear guidelines rooted in tradition should be established to prevent arbitrary critiques. These guidelines should honor the practice's ancient roots while respecting Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's adaptations.

3. Empowering Teachers: Teachers should be encouraged to perform Guru Puja with confidence and devotion, trusting in the Guru's grace rather than fearing judgment from officials. The evaluation process should focus on the sincerity of the offering rather than superficial details.

4. Sri Sri's Leadership: As the founder, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar should take an active role in addressing these concerns, ensuring that the Guru Puja remains a vibrant and authentic practice. His guidance can help realign the organization with the true spirit of the Guru Parampara.

Honoring the Guru Parampara

The Guru Puja is more than a ritual; it is a bridge between the individual and the divine, a sacred thread connecting practitioners to an ancient lineage of wisdom. In The Art of Living, this practice has been lovingly preserved and adapted by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, reflecting the organization's unique spiritual vision. However, the recent trend of imposing arbitrary norms threatens to undermine the ritual's sanctity. By prioritizing education, authenticity, and devotion, The Art of Living can ensure that Guru Puja remains a powerful expression of surrender and grace, keeping the Guru Parampara alive for generations to come. Let us honor this sacred tradition not by inventing new rules but by deepening our understanding of its timeless essence.