Shantikunj Ashram, nestled in the serene surroundings of Haridwar, India, is the spiritual headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP). Founded by the revered Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya in 1971, the ashram serves as a global center for spiritual awakening, moral upliftment, and social transformation, guided by the philosophy of the Gayatri Mantra and the principles of scientific spirituality.
Vision and Mission
The mission of Shantikunj is to revitalize ancient spiritual wisdom and align it with modern scientific understanding, creating a path for personal transformation and global harmony. It emphasizes the idea that individual spiritual growth can lead to the betterment of society as a whole. Shantikunj follows the teachings of the Vedas, Upanishads, and the philosophy of Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, which focuses on:
- Spiritual Empowerment: Awakening inner divinity through meditation, self-discipline, and the practice of the Gayatri Mantra.
- Moral Development: Cultivating virtues such as compassion, honesty, and non-violence in daily life.
- Social Responsibility: Promoting social welfare through service, education, and environmental conservation.
The Teachings of Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya
Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, the founder of AWGP and the visionary behind Shantikunj, was a sage, philosopher, and social reformer. He dedicated his life to bringing about spiritual and social rejuvenation. His teachings are rooted in the belief that spirituality and science complement each other, and that both can be harnessed to create a better world.
He propagated the practice of Gayatri Sadhana (spiritual discipline based on the Gayatri Mantra) as a means to purify the mind and soul. Alongside this, he advocated for Yug Nirman Yojna, a comprehensive program aimed at building a new era of universal brotherhood, equality, and sustainable development. His message of Pragya Abhiyan (the wisdom movement) continues to inspire millions to walk the path of righteousness and contribute positively to society.