Bengaluru, Read: Gurudev, how to bounce back after failure? …How do I get over this worry about what people will think about me?…How do I deal with the feeling of inferiority that arises in my mind regarding my body and appearance? These were not just questions, but were the voices of the confusion going on in the minds of today's young generation. In front of 2,000 youth, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar spoke openly on issues like anxiety arising from social media, difficulty in creating one's own identity, failure, belonging and responsibility towards society. When a youth asked how to create your own identity without becoming a part of the crowd, Gurudev's answer was simple – become a trendsetter. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's youth spoke openly on social media anxiety, failure, self-confidence, body inferiority and challenges of life during 'Gen Z × Gurudev 2.0' in Bengaluru on Friday. Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar answered every question with ease, humor and deep understanding.
Youth dancing to the tune of music in the program 'Gen Z × Gurudev 2.0'.
Advice to nervous youth to do meditation, Sudarshan Kriya and Bhastrika
To a young man who was nervous about expressing his views on social media and coming in front of people, he advised him to do meditation, Sudarshan Kriya and Bhastrika, so that he could express himself more easily. On concerns about body and appearance, he reminded that the body keeps changing all the time. On the question of recovering from failure, Gurudev said that one should neither be excessively attached to the results nor should one be completely cut off from them. He said, “Whatever comes, accept it with ease.” One young man later said that he was relieved to hear that even after failing ten times, there is no reason to stop moving forward.
Answers to personal questions reveal the bigger picture of life and society.
Many questions were personal, but the answers opened up the bigger picture of life and society. On the question of rising above caste and racial discrimination, Gurudev said that commitment to a greater cause can unite people by rising above their differences. Responsibility towards the earth and the nation is one such common objective. A young man asked how he knew people cared about him. Gurudev replied in his own style that knowing this is as natural as understanding that it is already afternoon. This atmosphere was the specialty of this event – here the youth could express their feelings without any formality. This was not a traditional lecture, but an open and intimate conversation.
Fashion show organized by Sri Sri Institute of Fashion Studies in the program 'Gen Z × Gurudev 2.0'.
Make knowledge and wisdom the center of your life
When asked what “Guru is the goal” meant, Gurudev said, “Make knowledge and wisdom the center of your life.” And when the youth asked to narrate a story, he smiled and said, “I do not tell stories, I create stories.” Gurudev's tone became serious on the issue of youth suicide. He called upon the youth to be responsible towards each other and help each other overcome the disappointment that comes with the breakup of a love relationship or not getting the expected results in exams. He clearly said that any failure should not be considered as the end of life's possibilities. Gurudev also inspired the youth to make a career, learn new skills and take out time for music, art and creative activities along with their profession. He said, “The world is yours. You have the right on it. Take responsibility for it too. The sky is the limit for you. Never let your zeal and enthusiasm diminish.”
A panel discussion was also held with the actors of the film 'Hanuman Ansh-Shobhinav Satya'.
The actors of Hanuman Ansh talked further from the stage
Lead actors Shobhinav and Purnima Tiwari of the film 'Hanuman Ansh-Shobhinav Satya' also participated in the event. In the film, Shobhinav played the role of Neem Karoli Baba and Purnima Tiwari played the role of Rambeti. Shobhinav said that Gen Z played an important role in taking the film to a larger audience. He also shared his experience of learning Sudarshan Kriya during the promotions of the film. He said, “I had heard about Kriya, but when I practiced it, I understood what it really is.” According to him, from the very first day of starting the practice, he started feeling the difference in his daily behavior and interactions with people.
Youth enjoying the presentation of bhajan in 'Gen Z × Gurudev 2.0' program.
From bhajan to breakdance, the confluence of tradition and Gen Z
The evening event became an example of the fusion of Gen Z culture and Indian traditions. Sri Sri Institute of Fashion Studies presented a fashion show. Kathak dancer Anarghya Patil and viral breakdancer Padmanabha from Meghalaya showcased their art. An interactive flash mob also got the audience dancing. Children from Meghalaya, studying in the Ashram, gave a musical presentation based on Gurudev's popular 'Ram Ram Ram' bhajan. At the same time, Nirvana Station's 'Bhajan Clubbing' and 'Sukoon Wali Qawwali' presented devotional music with the energy of modern music. Rajeev, lead singer of the band, said, “Gen Z is the future of our world. But it is also a generation that is constantly struggling with disorientation and increasing stress. Gurudev's proactive efforts to show this generation the path to development and prosperity is truly inspiring. 'Gen Z × Gurudev 2.0' is a beautiful initiative in this direction.