Inspired by the visionary principles of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, The Art of Living community is embarking on transformative endeavors to tackle the environmental and water crises facing India. The organization is addressing the severe challenges of drying rivers in the country’s core, reflecting a critical response to the dwindling green cover India has experienced over the last ten years.
Trees are essential in preserving rainwater, aiding in the replenishment of groundwater levels, reviving aquatic ecosystems, and enhancing air and soil quality. The Art of Living’s environmental initiatives are not limited to tree planting; they represent the beginning of a revival for India’s crucial water resources and the overall health of its environment and communities. Join us as we explore the landscapes transformed by The Art of Living’s commitment to fostering a more sustainable and verdant future.
Kumudvathi Eco Restoration Project: Transforming the Cauvery’s Bank into a Lush Paradise
Positioned along the left bank of the Cauvery River, the Kumudvathi watershed, once a symbol of environmental neglect, is being rejuvenated by The Art of Living through a comprehensive restoration strategy over 426 sq km, impacting 26 Gram Panchayats near Bengaluru. With more than 105,000 trees of 50 indigenous species planted, the initiative aims to revive a parched river and its surrounding ecosystem.
From Barren to Flourishing: The Green Surge of Guttahalli Hills
The afforestation project in the Guttahalli Hills within the Palar River Basin is sparking a green transformation. Here, 30,000 saplings of over 20 different native species are thriving across 60 hectares of Gomala lands, turning these areas from barren to fertile, thereby promoting groundwater recharge.
Revitalizing the Manjra Riverine Basin: Latur’s Journey from Drought to Revival
Confronted with a devastating drought in 2016, the Manjra riverine basin near Latur faced dire water scarcity, necessitating daily water distribution by tankers and trains. Presently, the landscape is lush with over 30,000 trees, showcasing the power of nature’s resilience and the community’s hard work under The Art of Living’s guidance, marking a significant turnaround from its water scarcity woes.
Naganadhi Restoration: Empowering Women, Setting Records
In Tamil Nadu’s Vellore district, a groundbreaking effort led to the planting of over 212,000 Palmyra palms along the Naganadhi basin, setting a world record celebrated in the 100th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. This project not only achieved a world record but also underscored the crucial role of empowered rural women in its success.
Agroforestry in Kale Belgunda Village: Cultivating Green Prosperity
Kale Belgunda Village in Karnataka is experiencing its own green revolution through agroforestry, with over 3,000 plants enhancing the landscape and soil moisture. An additional 1,400 plants dedicated to horticulture are providing new income avenues for local farmers.
The Art of Living’s efforts transcend mere tree planting; they signify a profound transformation in the destiny of India’s rivers. Through dedicated afforestation efforts, these riverine areas have been revived, symbolizing the resurgence of nature’s vitality and human determination.
About the Art of Living
The Art of Living’s holistic approach to preserving the environment is turning crisis into hope. Fostering change through vast tree plantations, restoring life to once-barren and polluted waterways, advocating natural farming for soil health are some of the many ingenious and sustainable Art of Living initiatives that revitalise communities, livelihoods, and even policies.
