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National Youth Day 2026: Over 30,000 youth meditate with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in a pan-India event

Young Indians from 600 cities joined Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for a nationwide meditation experience to mark National Youth Day 2026

2 min readDelhiJan 12, 2026 08:15 PM IST

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar at the event (Photo: PR handout)

More than 30,000 young people from across India marked National Youth Day by participating in a large-scale collective meditation and silence experience led by spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The gathering, part of the ‘India Youth Meditates with Gurudev’ initiative, drew participants from over 600 cities and premier institutions, including IIMs, IITs, IISc Bengaluru, AIIMS, BHU, Jamia Millia Islamia and ICAI.

A week of meditation, silence and self-discovery

The week-long event brought together students and young professionals seeking relief from rising stress, mental health challenges and the search for deeper happiness. Participants engaged in:

* Advanced meditation sessions
* Extended hours of silence
* Chanting and soulful music
* Interactive wisdom talks
* Joyful cultural celebrations

Many attendees described it as their first meaningful encounter with inner quiet in an age dominated by constant digital noise.

Youth awards for exceptional young achievers

A glimpse of National Youth Day 2026 celebration with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (Photo: PR handout)

A highlight of the celebration was the Inspirational Youth Trailblazers of India Awards, recognising young Indians contributing to society through courage, creativity and service.

Among the awardees were:

* Lt. Col. Rishi Rajalakshmi (Indian Army) – Gallantry
* Sai Sudarshan – Sporting excellence
* Rishikesh S., Founder & CEO, Rapido – Entrepreneurship
* Actress Sanchita Shetty – Arts & Entertainment

Special recognitions went to sustainability advocates, organic farmers, and filmmakers, such as Rahul Riji Nairji, as well as endurance cyclist Ninga Thojam Soni from Manipur.

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When meditation is happiness

Addressing thousands of young participants, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, “Youth is ready to take on challenges. Even when situations are not favourable, we move forward with confidence, knowing we will succeed.”

“Meditation should not be taken too seriously. Dhyan means to be happy, happy from within,” he added on a playful note.

A gathering that reflected India’s diversity

“Gurudev’s initiatives span 182 countries and touch over 80 crore lives,” his ashram said in a release. Participants travelled for the event from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, highlighting a growing nationwide interest in meditation and mental wellness.