ITANAGAR, 15 May: Devotees and volunteers across Arunachal Pradesh joined millions worldwide to celebrate the 70th birthday of spiritual leader and humanitarian Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on 13 May.

The occasion also marked 45 years of The Art of Living Foundation, a volunteer-based organisation founded by Shankar in 1981, which operates in over 180 countries with a mission to create a ‘stress-free and violence-free world’.

To commemorate the milestone, ‘Anand Utsav’ – a pan-India happiness programme – was held in several districts of the state.

Participants were introduced to sudarshan kriya, The Art of Living’s signature breathing technique, which is promoted for reducing stress, improving immunity, and enhancing mental clarity.

As part of the celebrations, a blood donation camp was organised at the Jollang ashram in Itanagar on 11 May. The main event was held at the Jollang ashram on 13 May. The programme included samuhik guru puja with Vedic chanting, a satsang and meditation session, and a cultural presentation.

Students and teachers from Sri Sri Vidya Mandir, along with devotees from Itanagar, Naharlagun, Doimukh, and adjoining areas took part in the celebration.

Similar events were reported from other districts.

In Pasighat in East Siang district, a plantation drive was led by Swami Advaithaananda, along with teachers and local volunteers.

Devotees in Aalo, Basar, Tezu, and Daporijo organised special prayers, community service, and meditation sessions to mark the occasion.