The Art of Living, founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, has been a beacon of spiritual wisdom, holistic well-being, and personal transformation for millions worldwide. Its programs, teachings, and practices have touched lives, fostering inner peace and resilience. However, beneath the serene exterior lies a subtle menace: internal groupism. This insidious force threatens to erode the very essence of the organization, imperiling its mission and legacy.
Understanding Internal Politics and Groupism
Internal groupism refers to the formation of cliques, factions, or exclusive circles within an organization. These groups often emerge around shared interests, personalities, or power dynamics. While some degree of affinity is natural, excessive groupism can be detrimental. Here’s how it manifests within the Art of Living:
THE ESSENCE BY GURUDEV SRI SRI RAVISHANKAR IS PURE AND PIOUS ,BUT THE GAME TO RULE THE ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE ART OF LIVING HAS CREATED MANY DISPUTES .
Spiritual Elitism: Certain long-standing members consider themselves the “chosen ones,” wielding influence over decisions and programs. They subtly exclude newcomers or dissenting voices, stifling fresh perspectives.
Power Centers: Within the organization, power centers emerge—informal hubs where decisions are made. These centers can become echo chambers, reinforcing their own beliefs and shutting out alternative viewpoints.
Us vs. Them: Groupism and internal politics fosters an “us vs. them” mentality. Instead of unity, there’s division. Whether it’s between teachers, volunteers, or regional chapters, this mindset weakens the collective spirit.
The Slow Decay
- Innovation Stagnation
Groupism stifles creativity and innovation. When ideas are confined to specific circles, the broader organization misses out on fresh approaches. The Art of Living risks becoming stagnant, recycling the same practices without evolution. - Fragmented Vision
As factions form, the organization’s vision fractures. Each group prioritizes its interests, diluting the overarching purpose. The once-unified mission becomes a mosaic of conflicting agendas. - Loss of Trust
Trust erodes when groupism prevails. Members wonder if decisions are made for the greater good or to protect specific interests. Transparency suffers, and trust—the lifeblood of any organization—drips away. - Spiritual Erosion
The Art of Living’s spiritual essence lies in unity, compassion, and selflessness. Groupism corrodes these values. When power struggles overshadow service, the organization loses its soul.
Remedies and Renewal
Awareness: Acknowledge groupism’s existence. Open dialogue about its impact and encourage self-reflection.
Inclusivity: Create spaces where diverse voices thrive. Involve newcomers, honor dissent, and celebrate differences.
Leadership: Leaders must transcend group loyalties. Their allegiance should be to the organization’s higher purpose, not specific factions.
Transparency: Share decision-making processes openly. Let sunlight disinfect hidden corners.
Spiritual Reconnection: Revisit the core teachings. Remind members that unity transcends divisions.
The slow death of the Art of Living isn’t inevitable. By dismantling internal politics and groupism, one can revive its spirit. Let us choose unity over division, compassion over cliques, and service over self-interest. Only then can the Art of Living truly thrive, illuminating hearts and minds across the globe.
