News #15 – Blue Flower Group Concert in Huehuetenango, Guatemala

On March 4, the Blue Flower Group performed in Huehuetenango, Guatemala. Their beautiful music filled the air, creating a memorable experience for the audience.

A local influencer with 21,000+ followers live-streamed the concert, and over 1,600 people watched online.

Watch the full concert here: Video Link

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #265: Sri Chinmoy 3100 Mile Self-Transcendence Race – Past and Present

This video takes you on a journey through the world’s longest certified footrace, the Sri Chinmoy 3100 Mile Self-Transcendence Race. Featuring rare footage from 2006 and 2007, when Sri Chinmoy personally visited the race, as well as highlights from the 2024 edition, it captures the spirit of endurance, perseverance, and self-transcendence.

With interviews, race moments, and inspiring music, this video offers a glimpse into the history and evolution of this extraordinary event.

  • Video Footage by: Tejvan (2024), Utpal (Suprabha interview), Mridanga (2006/2007)
  • Photos by: Pulak, Maral, Dhanu, Piyasi & Sri Chinmoy Centre Galleries
  • Music by: Parichayaka

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.

Video #263: Concert in Plovdiv – Bhoiravi & Dolores

Experience a soulful musical journey from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, on February 4, 2025. Violinist Bhoiravi and pianist Dolores offer a deeply meditative and uplifting performance, weaving melodies that awaken the heart and elevate the spirit. Let the music carry you to a place of peace, inspiration, and inner light.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

News #13. Sri Chinmoy Culture-Light Award Presented to Roberta Flack

Roberta Flack has passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy that transcends music. A Grammy-winning artist and spiritual seeker, she was known in the Sri Chinmoy community as Addwitiya, meaning “matchless” or “second to none.” With a voice that defied genres, she infused songs like The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face with rare depth and soul, making them truly timeless.

February 16, 2025 – In recognition of her profound contributions to music and her ability to inspire millions, Flack was honored with the Sri Chinmoy Culture-Light Award on her 88th birthday in a special ceremony at her New York residence. This prestigious award celebrates those who illuminate the human spirit through their work, and Flack’s lifelong dedication to uplifting humanity through song made her a most deserving recipient.

A classically trained musician, she was the first artist to win back-to-back Grammys for Record of the Year, using her extraordinary talent to express deeply felt messages that continue to resonate across generations. Her music invited listeners to explore their inner worlds while embracing life’s beauty. Reflecting on her journey, she once shared, “I want to keep my feet on the ground and let my spirit soar.” This powerful sentiment was later set to music by Sri Chinmoy, the spiritual leader, composer, and humanitarian after whom the award is named.

The award, directed by Ranjana Ghose, has previously honored luminaries such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu, President Mikhail Gorbachev, and composer Philip Glass. Its crystal design bears an etching of Sri Chinmoy’s world-harmony painting, Unity, adorned with his signature peace-bird drawings—symbols of the soul’s boundless journey. Alongside the award, Flack was presented with a certificate featuring a poem by Sri Chinmoy, capturing the essence of her artistic vision and life’s work:

God never encouraged me
To learn the world-denial-song.
On the contrary,
He inspired, encouraged
And blessed me
To sing the world-acceptance-song
And dance the world-transformation-dance.

– Sri Chinmoy

The ceremony also included a heartfelt birthday celebration for Roberta Flack, to whom the community extended warm wishes. A special slideshow, created by Vyakulata and Gesiane, beautifully highlighted the occasion.

With this recognition, Roberta Flack joins a distinguished list of honorees whose creativity and dedication continue to inspire and uplift the world. Her music remains a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the power of song to unite hearts and transcend boundaries.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #262: Reincarnation – The Journey of the Soul | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Ep. 05

In this episode of the Acceptance of Life podcast hosts Abhinabha and Vajin delve into the profound topic of reincarnation, exploring its implications on the journey of the soul. They discuss scientific perspectives, childhood memories of past lives, and the skepticism surrounding reincarnation. The conversation evolves into the purpose of existence, the evolution of consciousness, and the concept of a cosmic game that gives meaning to life. Through engaging anecdotes and philosophical insights, they invite listeners to reflect on the nature of existence and the journey of the soul. Abhinabha and Vajin further explore the concept of the cosmic game, discussing the nature of time, the balance of good and evil, and the importance of optimal difficulty in life’s challenges. They delve into the significance of stories in reflecting the cosmic game, the journey of reincarnation, and the nature of consciousness. The discussion also touches on panpsychism, the courage to incarnate, and the role of spiritual masters in guiding individuals towards enlightenment. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of finding meaning despite of suffering and the ongoing journey of awakening. Takeaways:

  • Reincarnation is a widely accepted concept in spirituality.
  • Children often have detailed memories of past lives.
  • Scientific research has documented cases of verified past life memories.
  • The soul’s journey involves experiencing itself through various forms of existence.
  • Skepticism towards reincarnation from religious beliefs.
  • The journey of the soul is to know itself fully in the material world.
  • The evolution of consciousness progresses through different life forms.
  • The cosmic game provides purpose and meaning to existence.
  • Suffering in life must have a worthwhile purpose in the cosmic game.
  • The hard problem of consciousness remains a significant philosophical question.
  • The universe has an infinite timeline for exploration.
  • Optimal difficulty in life enhances engagement and growth.
  • The balance of good and evil is essential for a meaningful existence.
  • Human stories often reflect the cosmic game of good versus evil.
  • The divine hides from us to make the game of life challenging.
  • Consciousness exists in all spheres of the universe.
  • Reincarnation allows for continuous spiritual growth across lifetimes.
  • Spiritual masters provide guidance for navigating life’s challenges.
  • Finding meaning in suffering can transform our experiences.
  • The journey of awakening is ongoing and requires active participation.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #261: TV Interview – Upcoming 26th Sri Chinmoy Marathon, Skopje

In this TV interview, the upcoming 26th Sri Chinmoy Marathon is celebrated as the longest-running marathon in Macedonia. Set in Skopje City Park on a scenic 1,739-meter loop, the event stands out with its frequent refreshment stations and has drawn a record 122 participants from 15 countries this year. Welcoming runners of all levels, including beginners, the marathon embodies the spirit of self-transcendence while honoring top finishers with well-deserved recognition.

Registration is open at srichinmoyraces.mk.

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

Video #260: This Year Could Be The Last One – The Time Episode | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Ep. 04

In this episode of the Acceptance of Life podcast, Abhinabha Tangerman and Vajin delve into the complex nature of time, exploring how our perceptions shape our experiences and behaviors. They discuss the concept of the eternal now, the impact of self-awareness, and the dangers of delayed gratification. The conversation emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and how our actions today create the ripples of our past. They also touch on the balance between material and spiritual fulfillment, the journey of rediscovery, and the necessity of self-awareness in human experience. They further explore the themes of personal transformation, the impact of trauma, the importance of mindfulness, and the role of conscience in decision-making. How we as individuals need to take agency over our lives by making conscious choices in the present, regardless of past experiences. The dialogue also emphasizes the value of time, the necessity of being a generalist rather than a specialist, and the evolving nature of creativity in today’s society, where quantity often trumps quality.

Takeaways:

  • Time is a complex concept that influences our behavior.
  • Living in the present moment is essential for happiness.
  • Self-awareness can lead to both growth and suffering.
  • Delayed gratification often prevents us from enjoying life.
  • Our past is shaped by our present actions, not the other way around.
  • The fall from paradise symbolizes the journey to self-awareness.
  • We create suffering through anticipation of future problems.
  • Spiritual fulfillment is as important as material success.
  • Perfection is an ongoing process of self-improvement.
  • Children embody a natural state of being in the present.
  • Change your actions in the now to transform your past.
  • Trauma can affect present choices, but agency remains.
  • Mindfulness enhances decision-making and presence.
  • Conscience guides us toward better choices.
  • Living as if each year is your last can inspire action.
  • Being a generalist allows for a richer life experience.
  • Self-giving fosters community and connection.
  • Creativity today values quantity over quality.
  • Each moment is an opportunity for better choices.
  • The world is a great teacher if we pay attention.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #258: Human Flourishing & The Crime of the Century | The Acceptance of Life Podcast Ep. 03

Abhinabha and Vajin discuss the concept of human flourishing, emphasizing the importance of establishing a solid and disciplined inner practice of meditation. They explore how connecting with one’s true self, following the guidance of the heart and setting intentions can transform daily experiences and interactions. The conversation delves into the role of stories in shaping identity, the mind’s function as a filter, and the interconnectedness of all spiritual qualities. They highlight the significance of taking responsibility for one’s reality and the potential for growth through adversity. The episode concludes with key takeaways on how to cultivate a fulfilling life through awareness and intentionality. Takeaways:

  • Human flourishing involves bringing forth our inner wealth.
  • Building a solid meditation practice is essential for spiritual growth.
  • Connecting with your true self is key to personal transformation.
  • Meditation and breathwork help center and connect us with our deeper being.
  • The mind can be a reactive force; awareness helps us respond consciously.
  • Intention plays a crucial role in shaping our experiences.
  • Stories we tell ourselves shape our identity and reality.
  • We have the power to create our own reality through consciousness.
  • Nature provides a different pace that can help us slow down and reflect.
  • Every moment is an invitation to make choices that align with our true selves.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #257: You are the Big Bang – 3 Models of the Universe | The Acceptance of Life Podcast Ep. 02

In this episode, Abhinabha and Vajin explore the eternal question of ‘Who am I?’ but also touch upon some interesting follow-up questions, such as ‘Where am I?’ and ‘What am I?’ They discuss 3 separate models of the universe: the mechanical, the natural and the Divine Lila or Play. Which universe you choose to live in will determine how you interact with the world and how you derive meaning from your life.

They also share stories from their personal lives of how their souls guided them to their current jobs and how we can train yourselves to start listening to the deeper parts of our nature. 

Takeaways:

  • The question ‘Who am I?’ is fundamental to self-discovery.
  • Understanding ‘Who am I?’ can lead to understanding the universe.
  • We are all interconnected through morphic fields of resonance.
  • Our identity is shaped by our experiences and beliefs.
  • We are spiritual beings having a human experience.
  • The heart serves as a powerful tool for guidance.
  • We have a responsibility to create a meaningful existence.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org