Sri Chinmoy Peace Mile Celebrates 40 Years
On Sunday, 15 March, several students from the London Sri Chinmoy Centre gathered in Battersea Park to meditate and walk the Sri Chinmoy Peace Mile, marking its 40th anniversary.
Exactly 40 years earlier, on 15 March 1986, Sri Chinmoy personally inaugurated the world’s first Sri Chinmoy Peace Mile in the same park and walked its path that day.
The weather on this anniversary was glorious — bright and uplifting. The group followed in Sri Chinmoy’s footsteps, walking the measured one-mile loop with a sense of gratitude and quiet joy.
From Quiet Beginnings to a Vibrant Running Spot
In 1986, recreational running was still in its infancy among the general public. Today, Battersea Park was teeming with runners of all levels. It was wonderful to see how the park has become a popular place for fitness and outdoor activity.
This transformation is due in no small part to Sri Chinmoy’s inspiration. He encouraged people to combine physical exercise with inner peace and aspiration. The Battersea Park Peace Mile continues to serve as a dedicated space where runners and walkers can enjoy a measured mile while connecting with the ideal of peace.
The path runs through beautiful surroundings near the River Thames and close to the Buddhist Peace Pagoda, creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere.
The Inspirational Message
Run and become.
Become and run.
Run to succeed in the outer world.
Become to proceed in the inner world.– Sri Chinmoy, Run and become, become and run, part 2, Agni Press, New York, 1979
This powerful message beautifully captures the spirit of the Peace Mile — balancing outer achievement with inner growth.
Lasting Legacy of the Peace Mile
The Sri Chinmoy Peace Mile was created as a blessingful gift and a place where people could run or walk while remembering the ideals of peace. Forty years later, thousands of Londoners have used this loop for exercise and reflection.
This anniversary walk reminded everyone of Sri Chinmoy’s vision: offering simple, accessible spaces that support both physical fitness and inner aspiration.
The celebration was simple yet meaningful — a quiet but powerful way to honour four decades of inspiration in the heart of London.
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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.