News #144: Beautiful Sri Chinmoy Statue Inspires Seekers in Grünau

A beautiful life-size Sri Chinmoy Statue by sculptor Shilpa Taru now graces the Jharna Kala Art Gallery in Grünau, Austria.

Introduction to the Sri Chinmoy Statue in Grünau

The Jharna Kala Art Gallery in Grünau, Austria, has been blessed with the presence and gentle light of Sri Chinmoy’s consciousness through a beautiful, life-size Sri Chinmoy Statue. Created by the sculptor Shilpa Taru, the statue stands as a silent and inspiring presence in the garden of Mandu and Visuddhi’s new home in this small mountain village. The statue welcomes all who come to meditate, sing, create and share in the spiritual life of this special place.

A New Spiritual Home in the Austrian Alps

Grünau is a peaceful mountain village of approximately 2,700 residents. Nestled in extraordinary natural beauty, the village now carries an additional blessing — the grace and presence of the Divine expressed through this new statue. Mandu and Visuddhi have established their home here, and the Jharna Kala Art Gallery forms a natural centre for regular activities offered to seekers and disciples. The statue will serve as a focal point of inspiration in the garden, inviting quiet reflection and inner connection.

The Artist: Shilpa Taru

Shilpa Taru is a devoted sculptor who has created several statues of Sri Chinmoy over the years. His work is known for capturing not only the outer form but also a sense of the inner peace and spiritual presence of Sri Chinmoy. The life-size statue in Grünau continues this dedicated service, offering a tangible reminder of Sri Chinmoy’s consciousness in a setting of natural beauty and quiet aspiration.

Plans for the Official Opening

An official opening ceremony is planned for spring 2027. This timing allows the community to prepare the garden and the surrounding space so that the ceremony can be held in an atmosphere of joy, devotion and celebration. Friends and seekers from Austria and beyond are expected to gather for this special occasion.

Jharna-Kala and the Spirit of Creativity

The gallery itself is named after Sri Chinmoy’s unique artistic expression known as Jharna-Kala, or “Fountain-Art.” Sri Chinmoy created more than 140,000 paintings and millions of bird drawings as spontaneous expressions of inner consciousness. The presence of a life-size statue of the artist-teacher in a gallery dedicated to his art creates a beautiful circle of inspiration — where the outer form of the Master and the creative outflow of his consciousness meet in one place.

A Blessing for the Village and Beyond

The small mountain village of Grünau is now blessed not only by the beauty of its natural surroundings but also by the enchanting presence and grace of the Divine. Residents and visitors alike will be able to encounter this peaceful presence in the garden. Over time the statue is expected to become a quiet landmark of aspiration, inviting both local people and international guests to pause, breathe and feel a moment of inner stillness.

Continuing the Tradition of Sacred Spaces

Around the world, statues of Sri Chinmoy have been installed in parks, gardens and spiritual centres as symbols of peace and oneness. Each one serves as a reminder that peace begins in the heart of the individual and can radiate outward. The new statue in Grünau continues this living tradition in the heart of the Austrian mountains, offering a place of beauty and silence for all who seek it.

Looking Ahead

As Mandu and Visuddhi develop regular activities, the Sri Chinmoy Statue will stand as a constant source of inspiration. Whether people come for meditation, singing, artistic creation or simply to enjoy the garden, the statue will silently welcome them. The official opening in spring 2027 will mark the beginning of a new chapter of spiritual life in Grünau — a chapter filled with light, joy and the gentle presence of the Master.

Final Reflections

The arrival of this life-size statue is a quiet yet profound blessing. In the garden of the Jharna Kala Art Gallery, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Austrian mountains, the form of Sri Chinmoy now stands as a permanent invitation to inner peace. May all who visit this special place feel the grace and consciousness that the statue so beautifully embodies.

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For more information about events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoycentre.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

I Love Singing #273: Sri Chinmoy Songs sung by Purnakama

This week features four uplifting Sri Chinmoy Bengali and English songs from the ‘Your Face Is My Dream’ songbook. Over the years, Sri Chinmoy composed music filled with aspiration and gratitude, creating heartfelt melodies that gently illuminate his spiritual path. Because of their simplicity and warmth, the songs continue to speak directly to the inner heart. Additionally, they offer listeners a peaceful doorway into his meditative world.

The performances this week come from his disciple Purnakama, whose sincere and gentle voice brings out the devotional sweetness in every line. Through her recordings, it becomes easy to settle into a calm, meditative mood and appreciate the purity of the music. As a result, whether you choose to sing along or simply listen quietly, these Sri Chinmoy Bengali and English songs can add a soft, elevating joy to your week.

Below are the six songs featured in this week’s selection:

Songs

  • Bhitare Hiyar Tibra Jatan
  • In My Inner World, I Suffer
  • Asha Kusum Hiya Niye
  • With a Hope-Flower-Heart

Listen & Learn

You can learn by watching the notation while listening, follow along with the melody, or download both the audio and the PDF scores for your personal practice. Everything is available for free, so you can learn at your own pace and enjoy the music more deeply. Use the links below to easily listen to the audio, download the recordings, and view or download the PDF sheet music for your convenience:

 

Lyrics:

1. Amar Pita Bishwa Pita

Bhitare hiyar tibra jatan
Bahire maner kathor shasan

Translation:

In my inner world I suffer
From my heart’s excruciating pangs.
In my outer life I suffer
From my mind’s lordship-sovereignty.

Composed on June 9, 1996
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Your Face Is My Dream’ songbook


2. In My Inner World, I Suffer

In my inner world I suffer
From my heart’s excruciating pangs.
In my outer life I suffer
From my mind’s lordship-sovereignty.

Composed on June 9, 1996
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Your Face Is My Dream’ songbook


3. Asha Kusum Hiya Niye

Asha kusum hiya niye
Ami benche achi
Asha kusum hiya niye

Translation:

With a hope-flower-heart,
I am alive.
With a hope-flower-heart.

Composed on June 9, 1996
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Your Face Is My Dream’ songbook


4. With a Hope-Flower-Heart

With a hope-flower-heart,
I am alive.
With a hope-flower-heart.

Composed on June 9, 1996
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Your Face Is My Dream’ songbook

 

For more of Sri Chinmoy’s published songs, visit the official website: www.srichinmoysongs.com.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

© 2026 Sri Chinmoy Centre

Video #367: Voice of Your Soul | Spirit Matters #47

Introduction to the Voice of Your Soul

Listening to the subtle Voice of Your Soul is one of the hardest tasks on the spiritual path. Even after years of meditation, many seekers still feel like strangers to their inner voice. Yet without aligning yourself with your soul, spiritual efforts often fail to bear lasting fruit, and the deep fulfilment you seek may never fully dawn. In this episode of Spirit Matters, Abhinabha and Vajin unpack four practical and powerful ways to hear your soul and follow its guidance.

Why Soul Alignment Matters

Most of us live guided by thoughts, fears, impulses and habits rather than by soul consciousness. When the mind, vital or body run the show, life feels fragmented and confusing. The soul, by contrast, speaks quietly and clearly. Learning to recognise and trust that voice is essential for genuine spiritual progress and long-term fulfilment.

Mind vs Soul: How to Tell the Difference

One of the central themes of the episode is the difference between the mind and the soul. The mind shouts — full of doubt, worry, comparison and insecurity. The soul whispers. The heart often knows something is right long before the mind catches up. Understanding this distinction is the first step toward real soul alignment.

The Five Inner Voices

Abhinabha and Vajin clearly explain the five inner voices that operate within us:

  • The physical body (lethargy, comfort, cravings)
  • The vital (desire, power, energy — both upward and downward)
  • The mind (doubt, analysis, fear)
  • The heart (the closest messenger of the soul)
  • The soul itself (clear, fearless, knowing)

Learning which voice is speaking at any moment is a practical skill that transforms daily decision-making.

Four Practical Ways to Hear Your Soul

The episode offers four accessible methods to enter the divine flow of soul consciousness, even when you do not mentally know what the soul wants:

  • Meditation and inner silence
  • Self-giving and dedicated service
  • The expansive force of gratitude
  • Cultivating a childlike attitude of wonder

These practices help quiet the louder voices so the soul’s guidance can be heard and followed.

Stories of Obedience and Surrender

Drawing on spiritual history, the hosts share powerful stories of Guru Nanak and Milarepa. These accounts illustrate how true obedience is not blind submission to external rules, but a living alignment with the highest part of oneself. Real spiritual growth requires action — “getting your hands dirty” in the world while remaining inwardly connected.

Moving from Rules to Inner Wisdom

The conversation also explores why rigid outer rules and dogma often fail modern seekers. Ancient rulebooks cannot fully address the complexity of contemporary life. What is needed instead is the living teacher-student relationship and the ability to listen to one’s own highest guidance. Sri Chinmoy’s analogy of different students needing different spiritual “food” highlights the importance of individualised inner listening.

A Roadmap Back to Your Deepest Truth

This episode is not abstract mysticism. It is practical guidance for anyone committed to living a spiritual life in the modern world. If you have ever felt torn between inner clarity and mental chaos, or wondered how to recognise the unmistakable voice within, this conversation offers a clear roadmap.

Final Reflections

The Voice of Your Soul never doubts, never fears, and always knows the way. Learning to hear it and follow it is one of the most important skills a seeker can develop. Through meditation, self-giving, gratitude and a childlike heart, it becomes possible to live more and more in the divine flow — even when the mind does not fully understand.

Previous Episodes in the Spirit Matters Series

This episode continues the rich tradition of practical spirituality offered by Spirit Matters. Explore more transformative conversations:

Explore More 

For more information about events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoycentre.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #143: Seven Minutes of Peace Observed in Bali

Seven Minutes of Peace

Introduction to Seven Minutes of Peace in Bali

On 20 September 2026, the Sudaji 6K Peace Trail Fun Run in Sudaji Village, North Bali, brought together approximately 400 participants for a special observance of Seven Minutes of Peace. At the conclusion of the event, runners and supporters gathered for a public silent meditation dedicated to world peace. Because of the significant time difference between Bali and New York, the concurrent observance was also undertaken individually in the evening, allowing people in both locations to participate simultaneously.

The Sudaji 6K Peace Trail Fun Run

The fun run took place in the scenic village of Sudaji in Buleleng Regency. Participants covered a 6-kilometre trail that wound through rice fields, rural paths and the natural beauty of North Bali. The event combined sport, community spirit and a clear message of peace and environmental care. Organisers chose a route that allowed runners to experience the living landscape of the village while contributing to its well-being.

Official Support and Community Involvement

The event received strong support from local officials, including the wife of Governor Koster, the Vice Governor, the Vice Regent, and members of their respective staffs. These dignitaries were present and were presented with two books by Sri Chinmoy: A Moment’s Peace and Listen to Nature. Their participation highlighted the growing recognition of peace initiatives at the local government level in Bali.

Tree Planting and Environmental Stewardship

As part of the broader message of peace and care for the Earth, numerous small trees were planted during the event. This practical action linked the aspiration for inner and outer peace with concrete steps to protect the environment. The planting of trees served as a living symbol of hope and responsibility toward future generations.

The Meaning of Seven Minutes of Peace

Seven Minutes of Peace was inaugurated by Sri Chinmoy in 1984 at the United Nations. Each year on the International Day of Peace (21 September), people around the world pause at the same moment — 9:00 to 9:07 AM New York time — to meditate or pray for peace. In Bali the public observance took place at the end of the fun run, while individuals also joined the global timing later in the evening. This dual approach allowed both collective and personal participation.

A Bridge Between Local and Global

The Sudaji event demonstrated how a simple community activity can become a vehicle for a universal message. Running through the rice fields, planting trees, receiving books on peace, and sitting together in silence all formed part of one continuous offering. Local officials, villagers, runners and international supporters shared the same aspiration: that peace begins with each individual and can grow through shared action.

Previous Peace Initiatives in Bali

Sudaji Village has welcomed the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run on several previous occasions. The partnership between the local organisers and the international Peace Run team has created lasting bonds of friendship. Events such as this year’s fun run continue that tradition, bringing the spirit of the Peace Run into everyday village life through sport, culture and silent meditation.

Final Reflections

The combination of the Sudaji 6K Peace Trail Fun Run and the Seven Minutes of Peace observance on 20 September 2026 stands as a beautiful example of how sport, community, environmental care and spiritual aspiration can come together. May the peace that was felt that day continue to grow in every heart that took part.

Explore More 

For more information about events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoycentre.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #142: Agnikana’s Group Meditative Concert in Prague

Agnikana’s Group offered a soulful Meditative Concert Prague on the autumn equinox.

Introduction to the Meditative Concert in Prague

On Tuesday, 22 September 2026, Agnikana’s Group presented a special Meditative Concert in Prague. The international women’s ensemble, dedicated to the music of Sri Chinmoy, offered an evening of deep calm, harmony and inner peace to mark the autumn equinox. The concert was held as part of the Jharna-Kala art exhibition and was free with regular admission.

Agnikana’s Group – Soulful Voices and Instruments

Agnikana’s Group is a female vocal and instrumental ensemble with members from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria and Switzerland. Founded in 1997, the group has performed more than 200 concerts across Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Mongolia, Japan and North America.

Their instruments include the Indian harmonium, flutes, acoustic guitar, violin, santur, metalophone and various bells and rhythmic instruments. Their sound is often described as ethereal and deeply peaceful. Through gentle vocals and acoustic arrangements, they interpret the meditative songs and mantras composed by Sri Chinmoy, creating an atmosphere that invites listeners into silence and inner stillness.

An Evening of Harmony and Silence

The programme offered a journey into deep calm through the magical interpretation of meditative compositions and mantras. Soft voices blended with the delicate sounds of flutes, strings and percussion, allowing the audience to experience a sense of unity and peace. Many visitors later spoke of the special quality of the music and the atmosphere of quiet concentration that filled the space.

Part of the Jharna-Kala Exhibition

The concert took place within the framework of the exhibition Jharna-Kala: Fountain Art, which ran from 1 to 30 September 2026. Sri Chinmoy’s unique style of spontaneous meditative painting, known as Jharna-Kala (“Fountain Art”), filled the historic spaces with colour, light and spiritual inspiration. Visitors could enjoy both the visual art and the live music during the exhibition period.

Official exhibition and event information: www.artforpeace.cz

The Deeper Meaning of Spiritual Music

Sri Chinmoy often said that soulful music is next to meditation. It carries the beauty and fragrance of silence and can communicate peace without the need for words. Agnikana’s Group has long specialised in creating exactly this atmosphere. Their concerts are not performances in the conventional sense; they are offerings of aspiration, purity and joy that help listeners feel a connection with their own inner self.

Agnikana’s Group offered a soulful Meditative Concert Prague on the autumn equinox.

Previous Concerts and Continuing Tradition

Agnikana’s Group has released several albums, including Bhagaban, In My Heart-Sky, Dream Always Dream and Premaloker. They regularly take part in “Songs of the Soul” concerts dedicated to preserving Sri Chinmoy’s musical legacy. Their previous performances in Prague and many other cities have earned them a devoted following among lovers of spiritual and meditative music.

A Moment of Collective Peace

On the evening of the autumn equinox, the combination of visual art and live meditative music created a rare opportunity for quiet reflection. Listeners of all backgrounds could sit, breathe and simply receive the peace offered by the music. In a busy capital city, the concert became a temporary oasis of harmony.

Final Reflections

The Meditative Concert Prague by Agnikana’s Group on 22 September 2026 will be remembered as a beautiful meeting of art and spirituality. Through their pure voices and sensitive instrumental playing, the women’s ensemble once again demonstrated the power of music to still the mind and open the heart. Events such as this continue the living tradition of offering peace through culture and remind us that true harmony begins within.

Explore More 

For more information about events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoycentre.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.