Chamba locals take part in inaugural World Meditation Day celebrations

A large number of Chamba residents participated in the inaugural World Meditation Day celebrations on Saturday, which coincided with the winter solstice.

Guided by spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the event witnessed millions of people across the world meditating together for peace, harmony and personal wellbeing.

In Chamba, participants joined both online and in person from various locations, including the district headquarters, Rajpura Jail, educational institutions such as the Kalauta primary and middle schools, Barour Senior Secondary School, Girls’ School Chamba.

Residents of Bharmour, Pangi, Churah, Dalhousie, Salooni and Bhattiyat participated in the event.

Pranayama and meditation sessions were conducted throughout the day, followed by an evening online meditation session with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

The event was organised by the Art of Living, whose trainers and volunteers guided participants and shared insights into the transformative power of meditation.

Art of Living district media manager Manuj Sharma highlighted the enthusiastic participation of Chamba residents, saying, “Thousands joined hands with millions worldwide, making this a truly global event.”

“Sri Sri Ravi Shankar explained the importance of meditation and encouraged everyone to incorporate it into their daily lives for enhanced mental clarity, emotional stability and overall wellbeing,” he said.

“This day symbolises a new beginning. It shows the world how meditation can address modern challenges like stress, violence and the erosion of social trust. Meditation not only improves mental and physical health but also fosters peace and unity in society. World Meditation Day is poised to become an annual celebration of global harmony,” he said.

On December 6, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution formally declaring December 21 as World Meditation Day.