Category: News

News #96: Sri Chinmoy Centre at Gracie Mansion Diwali 2025, New York

Posted on by Yatkara

Sri Chinmoy Centre Joins Diwali Celebration at Historic Gracie Mansion

A Night of Light, Music, and Unity

The Sri Chinmoy Centre joined a radiant Diwali celebration at Gracie Mansion on October 18, 2025. The evening brought together community leaders, artists, and cultural organizations for a night full of light, music, and shared joy. With glowing lamps, festive décor, and the warm energy of attendees, the mansion became a true stage for celebration.

Among the highlights was a performance by renowned sarangi musician Ustad Kamal Sabri. His music added soul and depth to the evening, inspiring everyone present. Guests also shared Diwali greetings and spoke about peace, unity, and community connection. The Sri Chinmoy Centre took part in the evening, joining others in the celebration of light, music, and community.

Media coverage by ITV Gold ensured that the event reached a wider audience. Interviews captured the atmosphere and allowed members of the Centre to express warm wishes for the festival. The celebration was more than entertainment — it demonstrated the beauty of harmony across cultures, faiths, and generations.

The occasion was covered by ITV Gold

Who Was Sri Chinmoy — In Short

Sri Chinmoy (1931–2007) was a spiritual teacher, poet, artist, and musicianSri Chinmoy (1931–2007) was a spiritual teacher, poet, artist, and musician. After moving to New York in 1964, he devoted his life to guiding people toward inner peace, self-transcendence, and universal oneness. Over his lifetime, he created nearly 1,600 books, including poetry, essays, lectures, stories, and plays, and produced a vast collection of spiritual art and meditations.

Through his works, Sri Chinmoy encouraged seekers to look beyond surface-level differences and recognize the shared divine essence in all beings. His vision was global: he believed that inner peace leads to outer harmony and that every gesture — no matter how small — can contribute to universal love. The Centre’s Diwali celebration embodied this vision by sharing light, music, and goodwill in a civic space, bringing spiritual ideals into everyday life.

Light is the Creator yet to be fulfilled.
Light is the Creation yet to be realised.
Light is the Voice of Silence in the inner world.
Light is the fruit of action in the outer world.

– Sri Chinmoy, My Ivy League Leaves

Why This Evening Mattered

Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. These themes are universal. The event naturally highlighted the values of Diwali, and the Sri Chinmoy Centre joined the celebration warmly, simply enjoying the evening alongside other honored guests. 

The event showed that spirituality, culture, and community are not separate; they are intertwined in our shared human experience. Music, tradition, and fellowship created a space where compassion and unity were tangible. Attendees left with a sense of belonging and hope, reminded that light — both inner and outer — brings people together.

Ultimately, the evening carried a quiet sense of Sri Chinmoy’s teachings, felt more than spoken. It reminded participants that spiritual ideals are alive in every sincere smile, greeting, and act of kindness. By fostering connection across boundaries, the Diwali celebration became a celebration not only of light but also of human unity and shared purpose.

Learn 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 #95: ‘Listen to Nature’ at Miami Book Fair – A Quiet Call for Earth and Spirit

Posted on by Yatkara

Listen the Nature booth at Miami Book Fair 2025

From November 16 to 23, 2025, the Sri Chinmoy Centre of Miami set up a gentle Listen to Nature booth at the Miami Book Fair. This is one of the largest literary gatherings in the United States.

Listen to Nature: A Place to Pause

The fair is always full of energy. Thousands of visitors move between hundreds of booths and talks. Yet, in the middle of it all, the Listen to Nature space offered stillness. Many people stopped by simply because it felt peaceful.

The Sri Chinmoy Centre of Miami joined the fair to share a few of Sri Chinmoy’s books. Over eight days, visitors from different countries quietly browsed. Some asked questions. Others stayed longer to read.

Listen to Nature — A Book Rooted in Love for the Earth

Listen to Nature: Living in Harmony with the Earth appeared in 2021. It gathers Sri Chinmoy’s poems, answers, meditations, and reflections from decades of talks and earlier writings. Everything is arranged by theme. As a result, the book flows gently and invites meditation on our bond with nature.

The volume includes:

  • poems from earlier collections,
  • short aphorisms and prose passages,
  • spiritual thoughts on environmental care,
  • answers to questions from seekers, scholars, and UN officials,
  • simple exercises to meditate on trees, rivers, silence, and the Earth.

Jane Goodall wrote the foreword. Professor Kusumita Pedersen wrote the introduction. Together, they create an accessible bridge between spirituality and today’s ecological concerns.

At the booth, visitors also found other Sri Chinmoy titles on meditation, poetry, and the inner life. This gave a fuller picture of his creative legacy.

Sri Chinmoy — A Voice of Peace and Oneness

Sri Chinmoy (1931–2007) taught meditation and wrote over 1,600 books. He was also a poet, musician, and artist who dedicated his life to world harmony. Above all, he encouraged inner peace and love for all living beings.

Nature has its own rhythm, its own harmony, its own peace and joy.

– Sri Chinmoy, Meditation: man’s choice and God’s Voice, part 1

A Quiet Corner of the Fair

The Miami Book Fair takes place each year in downtown Miami. It brings together publishers, authors, and tens of thousands of readers. Amid the lively crowds and bright displays, the Listen to Nature booth became a gentle refuge. Here, people could pause, breathe, and feel the link between inner peace and the living Earth.

Some visitors loved the simplicity. Others were touched by its care for the Earth. Many discovered Sri Chinmoy’s lifelong work for peace and service for the first time.

Several people said how refreshing it was to find such a calm corner. A few called it “a breath of fresh air.” Others simply smiled, nodded, and carried the quiet feeling with them.

The Sri Chinmoy Centre of Miami enjoyed the fair very much. Therefore, they hope to join similar events again. After all, the simplest things — a book, a smile, a moment of silence — can touch a heart.

More about Listen to Nature and Sri Chinmoy

News #92: Inspiring Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race in San Diego 2025

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Two runners holding awards and medals in front of a results board at the Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race in San Diego 2025

The San Diego Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race returned to Lake Miramar on November 9, 2025, bringing together 52 runners and walkers, ranging in age from 16 to 89, for a truly inspiring day of determination, joy, and self-transcendence. Under the bright and warming morning sun, participants embraced the six-hour challenge with unwavering energy and camaraderie, fully embodying the spirit of Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team events. This year’s race was not only a test of physical endurance but also a celebration of personal growth, friendship, and the joy of running.

Race Overview

Participants completed multiple 5-mile loops around the scenic Lake Miramar course. Extra mileage was earned by visiting one of three outpost aid stations, each staffed by enthusiastic volunteers providing water, fruit, and encouragement. In addition to tracking distance, the stations encouraged runners to pause, refocus, and push past mental limits. Each lap became more than a physical challenge—it became a journey of self-discovery and inner strength.

Notable Performances

This year, the San Diego Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race showcased remarkable performances across all age groups.

  • In the men’s division, Jose Herrera (27) achieved an impressive 45 miles, earning his third consecutive victory since the race’s debut in 2023. His consistency and endurance continue to inspire both new and returning participants.

  • First-time female competitor Fontayne Washington covered 37.5 miles, placing 4th overall. Her performance highlighted the growing diversity and talent in the race, demonstrating that dedication and preparation can overcome any challenge.

  • Veteran runner Piotr Jek (57) completed 41 miles, finishing 2nd overall and first in the Men’s 50–59 category. His achievement shows that age is no barrier to excellence, particularly in an event emphasizing personal growth and perseverance.

Results & Event Info 

  • View the Full Race Results here
  • See Race Photos here
  • Check the Event Page here

Special Moments and Community Spirit

Beyond the impressive distances, the event offered memorable moments that celebrated community and resilience. Winners received giant homemade apple pies from Jyoti-Bihanga Vegetarian Restaurant, along with free meal certificates. Goody baskets were provided for all category winners, ensuring that every participant left with a token of accomplishment.

Meanwhile, a curious and unexpected visitor – a rattlesnake – appeared near the race staging area early in the morning. Safely behind a fence, it stayed for hours, observing the runners with quiet patience. Its presence added a touch of excitement and a reminder of the unpredictability of nature, perfectly complementing the race’s message of persistence and awareness.

Runner Experiences and Reflections

Participants completed the race with determination and perseverance, supporting one another throughout the six-hour challenge. Many shared smiles and encouragement at the aid stations, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and community that defined the San Diego Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race. Families, friends, and volunteers played a vital role in cheering the runners, assisting at aid stations, and keeping spirits high throughout the day. The combination of personal effort and community support made the event both meaningful and unforgettable.

Looking Forward to 2026

The San Diego Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race 2025 was a resounding success, and organizers are already looking ahead to the 2026 edition, tentatively scheduled for Sunday, November 8, 2026. Whether you are a seasoned ultrarunner or a first-time participant, the race promises another day of endurance, camaraderie, and inspiration.

A day of determination, smiles, and shared achievement reminds us of Sri Chinmoy’s timeless message: “Run and become. Become and run.” This philosophy continues to resonate through every lap, every mile, and every personal victory.

Learn More and Get Involved

 

News #91: Madal Bal Brings Tools and Spiritual Vision to Ferretexpo in Guatemala

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Madal Bal Guatemala team inspired by Sri Chinmoy

From 6 to 9 November 2025, Madal Bal Guatemala participated in Ferretexpo 2025 at Expo Center Tikal Futura in Guatemala City. While the event highlighted tools and machinery, Madal Bal offered more than products. They shared a vision inspired by Sri Chinmoy, blending service, purpose, and mindfulness in every action.

Serving with Purpose

Madal Bal isn’t just about tools; it’s about work with heart. Each interaction, demonstration, and solution reflected Sri Chinmoy’s teaching: “Run to achieve success in the outer world. Reach to make progress in the inner world.” Visitors explored not only innovative tools but also the idea that work can uplift both the maker and the community.

Global Impact, Local Presence

Madal Bal’s influence reaches across continents – from Europe to the Americas. In Guatemala, their presence shows how outer action and inner consciousness go hand in hand. Moreover, the company’s network demonstrates that service, meditation, and harmony can be part of everyday business, making each project meaningful.

Community, Craft, and Consciousness

During the four-day expo, Madal Bal shared practical knowledge. They encouraged mindful practices in construction, design, and teamwork. As a result, visitors saw how business can become a path for inner growth. The expo created a space where professional skill and spiritual awareness meet.

Honoring Sri Chinmoy

Sri Chinmoy dedicated his life to harmonizing physical achievement with inner development – through ultra-distance races, art, music, and humanitarian service. Madal Bal’s work in Guatemala brings this philosophy to life. It shows that service, mindfulness, and excellence can thrive together.

Madal Bal Guatemala continues to inspire professionals and communities alike. They offer tools and guidance to build with purpose, consciousness, and care.

Explore More

Check out Madal Bal’s full history and international operations at madalbal.com.
For more information about events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoycentre.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #90: Discover Sri Chinmoy and the Legendary 3,100-Mile Race

Posted on by Yatkara

A recent feature article in Marathon Runner magazine, Russia’s leading publication for running enthusiasts with a readership of 40,000, delves into the life and philosophy of Sri Chinmoy, the founder of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team (SCMT), and the inspiration behind the world’s longest certified footrace – the Self-Transcendence 3,100 Mile Race.

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English Translation:

Sri Chinmoy: The Story and Philosophy of the Founder of the 3,100-Mile Race

By Irina Kebo – 10/31/2025

The name of Sri Chinmoy, the 20th-century philosopher and humanist, has appeared often in Marathoner magazine. Many of his students call him “Teacher” and proudly belong to the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team.

Nikolai Duzhiy runs the astonishing Self-Transcendence Race in New York every year – a nearly 5,000 km (3,100 miles) race over 51 days. He has won it three times (2013, 2017, 2018) and is a consistent finisher.

Svetlana Khisamutdinova ran her first marathon at age 50. Now over 80, she amazes thousands with her energy and ability to run not just tens, but hundreds of kilometers. Her track record includes countless marathons, ultramarathons, and multi-day races.

These athletes are students of Sri Chinmoy, but who was their mentor? Let’s get to know him and his philosophy – not just about running, but about life itself.

Who is Sri Chinmoy?

Born on August 27, 1931, in East Bengal (now Bangladesh), he was the youngest of seven children and named Chinmoy Kumar Ghose. “Sri” is an honorific, showing respect to a spiritual teacher.

Chinmoy lost his parents as a teenager. From an early age, he showed talent in sports and creativity, which later flourished in many areas:

• Music: He composed over 23,000 songs in languages including Sanskrit, Bengali, English, and French. Some are short mantras; others honor countries, landmarks, and individuals who contributed to humanity. He mastered dozens of instruments, including piano, organ, flute, cello, and the Indian bowed esraj, and gave hundreds of free concerts worldwide –sometimes playing 15 to 20 instruments in a single performance. His largest audience was over 19,000 in Montreal, 2000.

• Painting: Chinmoy created millions of drawings and paintings, often abstract, vibrant, and harmonious. He called his style Jharna Kala (“Fountain of Art”). Birds often appear in his work, symbolizing peace, freedom, and the soul’s aspirations. His artwork has been exhibited globally, from JFK Airport to the UN Secretariat and the Museum of Contemporary History in Russia.

• Literature: A prolific writer, Chinmoy wrote poems, essays, short stories, plays, and commentaries on Plato, Mozart, and Dostoevsky. Over 1,600 works have been published. His main themes include self-knowledge, harmony, and human values. He lectured at universities worldwide, including Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, Harvard, and Moscow State University. He received awards such as the UN Society of Writers’ Award for Excellence and the Gandhi Peace Prize.

Despite his artistic and literary achievements, Chinmoy is best remembered as a humanist, philosopher, and advocate for peace and unity, admired by figures like Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, and Princess Diana. He passed away in October 2007, leaving behind a rich legacy in art, music, literature, and human inspiration.

Sri Chinmoy’s Philosophy

Sri Chinmoy taught that everyone has the right to life, freedom, happiness, and the development of spiritual and physical potential. His works express love for the world and for each individual.

Don’t try to change the world. You will fail. Try to love the world. And look! The world has changed forever.
– Sri Chinmoy

He encouraged overcoming the ego, cultivating compassion, and seeking harmony within oneself. True happiness comes from love and inner balance, which exists in everyone, though not all find it.

Athletic Achievements

Chinmoy led an active life: he was a competitive athlete, weightlifter, tennis enthusiast, and long-distance runner. He completed 22 marathons and 5 ultramarathons. He also organized the Harmony Run, a global torch relay symbolizing unity and peace. Since 1987, participants have covered over 650,000 km across 155 countries. The torch has even reached space, the North Pole, and Mount Elbrus.

The Self-Transcendence Race

Known as the “Everest of ultramarathons,” this race is 3,100 miles (4,988 km) long. Participants run an 883-meter loop in Queens, New York, daily from 6 a.m. to midnight, with 51 days to finish. Daily distances range from 70 to 100 km, supported with food, massages, and medical care.

The race tests mental resilience as much as physical stamina. In 2025, Andrea Marcato of Italy won in 46 days, 16 hours, 19 minutes, and 8 seconds, while Nikolai Duzhiy, at age 59, finished second in 48 days, 4 hours, 57 minutes, 52 seconds – his 13th participation. Only a few runners have ever finished; the race embodies the human spirit’s limitless potential.

Just as a bird needs two wings to fly, a person needs harmony between body and spirit.
– Sri Chinmoy

Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team

Although Sri Chinmoy is no longer alive, the team he founded in 1977 continues organizing ultra-distance races worldwide. Team members pursue ambitious goals in running, swimming, mountaineering, and other challenges, striving for progress in both the outer and inner worlds.

Run to achieve success in the outer world. Reach to make progress in the inner world.
– Sri Chinmoy

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For those interested in exploring the profound connection between running and spiritual growth, the full article offers an in-depth perspective. While currently available in Russian, its insights transcend language barriers, resonating with readers worldwide.

Learn More and Explore Resources

To find out more, visit the official website: www.3100.srichinmoyraces.org. 
For more information about races, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.