The “Journey Within” Masterclass with Indian guru and spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar brought thousands together at the Toyota Music Factory in Irving, Texas, on Oct. 8 for an evening of meditation and reflection. The sold-out event, hosted by the Art of Living Foundation, drew people from across North Texas seeking guidance on mindfulness and inner peace.
The evening opened with a video chronicling Ravi Shankar’s journey from his early years in southern India to his global humanitarian work in over 180 countries. A proclamation from the Irving Mayor’s Office followed, recognizing the spiritual leader’s contributions to peace and community well-being.
Before the masterclass began, Ravi Shankar met with city officials and community leaders, including the Irving Police Chief and the Mayor of Flower Mound. Attendees at the pre-event reception received signed copies of his book, ‘The Journey Within’, and discussed the foundation’s outreach efforts worldwide.
During his address, Shankar emphasized the growing need for balance in modern life. “Stress impacts the way we think, feel, and behave, thus affecting all aspects of our lives,” he said. “The consequences of letting stress rule are nothing short of disastrous and tragic.”
He urged participants to view meditation not as an escape but as a practical tool for resilience. “When negativity comes like a flood, it overpowers you and throws you off balance,” he said. “Meditation helps restore that inner stillness and strength.”
He also reminded the audience that “being angry at others’ mistakes is like punishing yourself,” calling on people to focus on self-awareness rather than judgment.
The highlight of the night was a 27-minute guided meditation led by Shankar. More than 2,500 attendees sat in silence as he instructed them to breathe, relax, and let go. The atmosphere was calm and deeply focused, with even first-time meditators reporting moments of stillness and clarity.
Shankar also noted the global recognition of meditation, mentioning the United Nations’ declaration of Dec. 21 as World Meditation Day. He said meditation is now practiced in schools, workplaces, and prisons, transforming lives and building empathy in unlikely places.
Following the Dallas event, Shankar will continue his “Journey Within” tour with stops in Seattle, Portland, Sacramento, and Los Angeles through October. Each city will host public meditation events designed to spread mindfulness and peace.
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