Category: News

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

Posted on by Yatkara

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.

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

Posted on by Yatkara

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

Posted on by Yatkara

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.

Inspiring News #141: Join Seven Minutes of Peace Worldwide

Posted on by Yatkara

Seven Minutes of Peace on International Day of Peace

Introduction to Seven Minutes of Peace

Today, on the International Day of Peace, Sri Chinmoy’s global and simultaneous experience of peace is taking place. From 9:00 to 9:07 AM New York time, people around the world gather inwardly and outwardly to feel the downpour of peace. This simple yet powerful observance invites every peace-lover to pause, meditate and offer their heartfelt aspiration for a more harmonious world.

A Global Invitation

Around the world, the observance can be adjusted to local timeframes and needs. Peace lovers can participate individually or creatively adapt the seven minutes to their own setting. 

The site includes practical suggestions for participation, peace meditation guidance, and a newly added option to receive a reminder.

The Origin of This Global Tradition

This special observance was inaugurated by Sri Chinmoy in 1984 at the United Nations on United Nations Day. As leader of the Peace Meditation at the United Nations, he offered a seven-minute lunchtime meditation that brought staff and delegates together in silence. Over the years it has grown into a worldwide event. In recent times it has been held on September 21, the International Day of Peace, timed to coincide with the spirit of the United Nations Peace Bell ceremony.

Sri Chinmoy’s Vision of Peace

Sri Chinmoy often reminded us that lasting peace begins within each individual. Two of his statements beautifully capture the spirit of today’s gathering:

As there can be no war
Without the war-mongers,
Even so, there can be no peace
Without the peace-lovers.
Sri Chinmoy, Ten Thousand Flower-Flames, Part 48, Agni Press, New York, 1982

Life’s battlefield will be all peace when the sound of the mind
Gives way to the silence of the heart.
Sri Chinmoy, Twenty-Seven Thousand Aspiration-Plants, part 90, Agni Press, New York, 1984

These words invite us not only to wish for peace but to become living instruments of it.

How to Participate

Anyone can join Seven Minutes of Peace:

  • Sit quietly and meditate for seven minutes.
  • Offer a silent prayer for world harmony.
  • Simply hold a sincere feeling of peace in the heart.

There is no requirement of special technique. The power of the observance lies in the collective aspiration of many hearts joining at the same moment.

The Deeper Meaning

Sri Chinmoy described himself as a student of peace. He felt that the most valuable contribution any person can make is the cultivation and sharing of inner peace. When many individuals consciously offer that peace at the same time, something subtle yet real takes place. The atmosphere of the Earth receives a collective gift of light and harmony.

A Continuing Tradition

For more than four decades, this annual observance has brought together people from dozens of countries. Governors, mayors and ordinary citizens have offered proclamations and joined the silence. The tradition continues today with the same sincerity that marked its beginning at the United Nations in 1984.

Final Reflections

On this International Day of Peace, the call is simple and clear: pause, become silent, and offer the peace of your heart to the world. May this collective meditation strengthen the aspiration for harmony in every participant and send a wave of light around the earth.

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.

Inspiring News #140: Beautiful Sri Chinmoy Marathon at Rockland Lake

Posted on by Yatkara

Sri Chinmoy Marathon

Introduction to the Sri Chinmoy Marathon at Rockland Lake

The 24th annual Sri Chinmoy Marathon took place on Monday, August 24, 2026, around the beautiful shores of Rockland Lake in Congers, New York. This popular Boston Qualifier drew runners from many countries to the scenic, pancake-flat course just 45 minutes north of New York City. Marathon photos are now available, along with the complete official results.

A Scenic and Fast Course

The Rockland Lake Marathon is known for its exceptionally flat and fast course. Runners complete a USATF-certified 2.95-mile loop around the lake. The marathon consists of one partial starting lap followed by eight full loops, creating a smooth and enjoyable race experience. The path was repaved in 2020 and remains free of potholes and cracks, making it ideal for personal bests and Boston Marathon qualification.

Photo Galleries & Official Results

Because so many excellent photographs were taken on race day, the organisers created two separate galleries:

These galleries capture the energy of the start, the determination of runners on the course, the joy at the finish line, and the awards ceremony.

Previous Editions and Related Events

The Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team organises many races at Rockland Lake throughout the year, including the 12-Hour and 24-Hour races, the Midnight Marathon and half-marathons. Previous results and photo galleries from earlier editions of the marathon can be found on the official website:

A Well-Organised Event

The Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, in cooperation with the New York State Parks System, once again provided excellent race support. Premium aid stations were available every mile, custom medals were awarded to all finishers, and a post-race vegetarian meal was served. Free parking (for early arrivals), full medical support and a friendly atmosphere made the day enjoyable for both runners and volunteers.

International Participation

As in previous years, the race attracted an international field of runners from more than 30 countries. The combination of a fast course, beautiful lakeside scenery and the welcoming spirit of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team continues to make this event a favourite among both local and visiting athletes.

Supporting a Greater Cause

All proceeds from the Rockland Lake Marathon support the Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race — the world’s longest certified road race. By participating, runners not only challenge themselves but also help sustain one of the most remarkable ultrarunning events on the planet.

Course Records and History

The men’s course record stands at 2:30:32 (Bahadur Szabo, Hungary, 2005). The women’s course record is 2:37:24 (Annie Heffernan, USA, 2023). Over the years the Rockland Lake Marathon has become a reliable Boston Qualifier and a highlight of the late-summer running calendar in the New York area.

Atmosphere and Community

Runners often comment on the peaceful yet focused atmosphere of the Rockland Lake Marathon. The combination of natural beauty, well-organised support and the underlying philosophy of self-transcendence creates a special experience. Many participants return year after year, drawn by both the fast course and the sense of community.

Final Reflections

The 24th annual Sri Chinmoy Marathon at Rockland Lake once again showed why this race holds a special place in the New York running calendar. Flat, fast, scenic and well-supported, it continues to attract runners seeking both performance and inspiration. We congratulate all the finishers and thank the many volunteers who made the day possible.

Explore More

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