Voice your grievances, but stay away from 'anti-national' elements: Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to Gen Z

Gen Z members should express their concerns on issues that affect them, but should avoid engaging with anti-social and anti-national elements, spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar advised on Wednesday. The founder of the Art of Living Foundation urged young people to maintain patience and restraint, discouraging the influence of reckless individuals.

Speaking to media during a visit to Vasad Ashram in Gujarat's Anand district, Ravi Shankar urged Gen Z to voice their opinions on existing movements and protests, but to stay away from negative influences. He noted that young people often gravitate toward two extremes: becoming overly aggressive over minor issues or slipping into depression.

Describing depression as a major global challenge, Ravi Shankar advised adopting a spiritual path through meditation, yoga, selfless service, and practicing patience and hope. Commenting on India's challenges this year, including droughts and excessive rainfall, as well as conflicts worldwide, he expressed satisfaction with the country's relatively stable situation.

Ravi Shankar attributed India's resilience to its civilizational values, cultural understanding, and tradition of peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that these factors helped maintain stability amidst global uncertainties.