IIPM Global Exposure

Rendezvous of an Antitheist and a Spiritual Guru: writes on his meeting with

This Sunday at 4:30 a.m., I left Delhi for the Art of Living International Center in Bangalore. I returned at 4 a.m. on Monday — exhausted yet exhilarated by a day that felt both unexpected and deeply meaningful.

It all began with my dear friend Divam Kapoor, a true believer, who had been gently nudging me for some time:
“Buddy, hold on to your atheistic views — I have no issue with them. But please, just meet my spiritual guru once… for my sake.”

Among the many spiritual figures out there, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was the only one whose work I had followed with genuine curiosity over the past 25 years. Not out of faith, but fascination. Time and again, I would introduce a concept or exercise in my leadership workshops, only to discover soon after that the Art of Living trainers were also offering something remarkably similar — the sole difference being that I framed it through leadership and team-building lenses, while they wrapped it in spiritual and mental health and will being insight. A subtle yet powerful tweak.

What truly drew my admiration, however, was his extraordinary global program for prisoners. Over 800,000 inmates worldwide have experienced these workshops, and the transformative potential of such spiritual tools in that context feels nothing short of remarkable. In my view, this remains the most profound and impactful application of the Art of Living course.

For those unfamiliar, the Art of Living workshops center on spirituality, stress management, and personal growth — distinct from the formal, ritualistic aspects of Hinduism. Rooted in ancient Vedic traditions like yoga, pranayama, and meditation, the techniques are presented in a beautifully universal, secular format accessible to people of every background and faith.

- The cornerstone is *Sudarshan Kriya*, a rhythmic breathing practice designed to dissolve stress and nurture mental and spiritual well-being.
- The programs are positioned as educational and self-development tools, not religious rites, with the inspiring vision of a “stress-free mind and a violence-free society.”
- Advanced courses and silent retreats invite deeper journeys toward lasting inner peace.

Thanks to Divam’s warmth and connections, I was granted a thoughtful VIP tour of the sprawling 400-acre campus — a place of serene beauty and meticulous care.

A few observations that lingered with me:

1. The Gurukul stole my heart. Its ambience and architecture were simply enchanting — serene, elegant, perfectly landscaped. The entire campus reflected the same thoughtful design. While young minds there immerse solely in the Vedas (a path I find of limited relevance in our scientific era), it is clearly fulfilling its purpose: preserving India’s ancient wisdom. Many of the country’s most respected priests trace their roots here, and in that light, it stands as one of the most exquisite sanctuaries for such a mission.

2. The Sudarshan Kriya, yoga, and meditation offerings are, without question, exceptional. I knew the content intimately through an old friend who was among the earliest Art of Living teachers in Mumbai. These practices hold real value — especially for those seeking calm — and science increasingly affirms their benefits for cognitive vitality and mental resilience.

3. The gaushala housing 1,600 cows was impeccably clean and world-class, more akin to a refined stud farm than anything else. The highlight? A delightful treat of in-house A2 milk products — Bengali rasmalai, almond milk, kheer, and ice cream — pure indulgence. Our guide, an ISB 2002 batch MBA, had once read my book *Count Your Chickens Before They Hatch*. Remarkably, nearly every teacher and guide I met (all in their 30s to 60s) turned out to be longtime admirers of my work. The compliments flowed freely, and I confess — it made for a rather delightful afternoon. 🤍

4. The kitchen, preparing 17,000 meals daily, operated with effortless excellence. In the dining areas, I encountered more admirers — business leaders spending weekends on campus for courses. Lunch at the Indian restaurant and dinner at the European one were both outstanding.

5. I visited two of the campus’s four or five temples — serene, immaculate spaces of quiet devotion.

6. The Ayurvedic Centre was a scenic haven of traditional therapies and world-class spa facilities. While claims around face reading or pulse diagnosis to discern every ailment lacked modern empirical science, the overall experience promised genuine excellence and deep relaxation.

7. Though I wasn’t staying overnight, I glimpsed the five-star guest residences — pure luxury resort elegance. One overlooked one of the two pristine lakes on campus, right beside Sri Sri’s own home.

8. The evening satsang unfolded in a vast open-air amphitheater with around 8,000 joyful participants singing and dancing in pure celebration — echoes of Hare Rama Hare Krishna, yet infused with warmth and inclusivity. The sequence included a soulful Bangla Baul song, a Hindi piece, then an African melody. A thoughtful Q&A followed, then the launch of General Bakshi’s book *Beyond Fear* — an ironic moment, given the general’s frequent divisive commentary on television, juxtaposed against a host who has always championed peace and harmony. The session closed with a gentle ten-minute silent meditation. Aside from that one discordant note, the atmosphere radiated everything beautiful about genuine belief: happiness, calm, shared song, and dance. At least 5% of those present were foreigners — a quiet testament to the universal appeal.

9. And then, the heart of the day — my meeting with Sri Sri himself. Scheduled precisely at 5 p.m., it began without delay. We watched a short, touching video beforehand. He sat on a simple, throne-like sofa in a spacious, unadorned room. I entered, touched his feet, and a single sofa was drawn up facing him. He was exactly as one sees him — serene, smiling, soft-spoken. I shared openly why I had followed his work for two decades: “I noticed your trainers offering precisely what I teach in my workshops, only reframed spiritually — and reaching far greater numbers because so many seek that deeper upliftment over leadership models alone.”

His smile widened. He leaned forward, pulled me close, and enveloped me in the warmest, tightest hug. I returned it fully. He then draped a stole around my shoulders, handed me an apple and a few of his books — gestures he offers many — and listened as I mentioned being completely anti-establishment. “Yes, yes,” he replied gently, “I always tell people: if you don’t like something, you must criticize. That’s very important.”

When Divam asked him to offer me guidance, Sri Sri laughed softly and said, “What do I tell him? He knows everything.”

As I stepped out, word spread that Gurudev had hugged me. One after another, people approached in quiet astonishment: “Gurudev doesn’t touch anyone. He doesn’t hug anyone.” Divam, who has visited over 50 times in 13 years, confirmed it was the first time he had witnessed such an embrace.

Divam himself shone brightest that day — introducing me with genuine pride, his face alight with smiles, his energy brimming with positivity and joyful stories. Every person I met radiated the same calm happiness — believers living in harmony, a stark contrast to the division often cloaked in religion across today’s India. Much of that grace, I believe, flows from Sri Sri’s lifelong commitment to inclusivity and peaceful coexistence across all faiths and paths.

In the end, this became a singular encounter: an antitheist (one who has even authored a book on the subject) meeting a revered spiritual guru. Perhaps the first of its kind for both of us.

What touched me most? Despite knowing my stance — my profile, shared in advance, opens with “Arindam is a proponent of science and rationale…” and closes with my vision to eradicate religion, income inequality, and gender discrimination while championing equal access to health, education, and justice — he welcomed me openly and warmly.

I remain eager to meet and learn from everyone, especially those whose views differ from mine. Only through such encounters can I hope to write, speak, and think with greater clarity and depth.

A day richly spent. Thank you, Divam — from the heart.

The Art of Living Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Arindam Chaudhuri Arindam Chaudhuri

The Union Budget 2026-27 has been presented as a "Yuva Shakti-driven" roadmap, focusing on infrastructure (₹12.2 lakh crore capex at 3.1% of GDP), fiscal consolidation (deficit at 4.3% of GDP), manufacturing boosts, skilling, startups, and sectors like defense, telecom, and green initiatives like Carbon Capture. While it sustains growth signals and emphasizes youth, employment, and long-term stability, many view it as incremental—lacking bold, transformative leaps to truly catapult India toward superpower status by 2047.

In stark contrast, the visionary alternate budgets and ideas pioneered by under Dr. 's guidance (and advanced through Dr. Arindam Chaudhuri’s work) have consistently pushed for radical, committed national transformation—rooted in pro-poor planning, distributive justice, and exponential growth. These aren't mere tweaks; they're blueprints for reclaiming India's pride and potential.

Key contrasts from our recommendations over the years (drawn from IIPM Think Tank - Publications and Faculty Research 20+ alternate budgets, and highly acclaimed books, ‘Planning India’ (1997), ‘The Great Indian Dream’ (2003), and ‘2047: A Roadmap to Beating USA & China’ (2022)):

- Bold Economic Leap vs. Steady Incrementalism — We advocated for aggressive policies to achieve a $150-trillion economy by 2047 via the "Doubling Effect," massive job creation, and purchasing power for all—far beyond the current budget's focus on sustained 6-7% growth.
- Universal Social Security & Equity— Proposals like Basic Universal Income, ₹10 lakh medical insurance for all, housing for all, free/infinite health & education access, and capping wage gaps (e.g., CEO pay ≤3x lowest worker) to eliminate inequality and corruption—more humane and visionary than the budget's targeted schemes.
- Innovative Revenue & Anti-Corruption — Ideas like Vice/Sin Tax (adopted years later by the government), judicial/prison/electoral/media reforms to root out corruption, and radical steps like gender income guarantees—showing foresight and commitment to systemic change.
- Holistic National Vision— Emphasizing eradication of exploitation, universal humanism, sustainability over materialism, and turning India into a global leader surpassing USA & China—contrasting with the budget's pragmatic but less ambitious path.

These ideas stem from Dr. Malay Chaudhuri's profound vision: blending national economic planning with entrepreneurship, barefoot management, and a pro-poor agenda that ensures education for all, equitable income distribution, and social security. His establishment of IIPM in 1973, the Great Indian Dream Foundation, and concepts like Life Style Parity have inspired generations to think beyond the ordinary—creating a movement for a truly rich, proud India.

What we teach today, others adopt tomorrow. Our alternate budgets weren't reactive; they were prophetic calls to a bolder, more inclusive destiny.

Grateful to build on the legacy of Dr. Malay Chaudhuri—a true architect of India's potential. His timeless vision continues to light the way toward 2047 and beyond 🇮🇳


Arindam Chaudhuri Arindam Chaudhuri

Download FREE PDFs of our pathbreaking books from the link in the comments and SHARE THE REVOLUTION

Making sure you aren’t fat, isn’t about aesthetics. It is about physiology —
(Read on and share this if you believe health is the ultimate form of self-respect)

Being obese isn’t a great personality trait to be proud of and body positivity is just an unscientific slogan— as every doctor will say.

Fat is a chronic disease state that deserves the same urgency as heart failure—because in many ways, it is a form of slow-progressing organ failure.

You wouldn’t tell someone with congestive heart failure to “love their swollen ankles.”

You wouldn’t tell a cirrhotic patient to “embrace their jaundice.”

So why do we glorify a condition that silently destroys metabolic health?

Taking obesity seriously isn’t fat-shaming.

It’s life-saving.

If you had a heart attack tomorrow, you’d thank the doctor who warned you years earlier—not the influencer who told you your BMI didn’t matter.

Let’s replace denial with data.
Let’s replace slogans with science.
Let’s treat obesity like the serious medical condition it is.

🛑 FAT IS NOT “JUST FAT.”
It’s an active endocrine organ—and when it grows out of control, it becomes an organ failure.

When your heart fails, you rush to a cardiologist.
When your liver fails, you see a hepatologist.
When your kidneys fails, you have dialysis or transplant.

But when your adipose tissue (fat) fails and becomes chronically inflamed, overproduces hormones, and drives insulin resistance, hypertension, cancer risk, and dementia…
…society calls it “body positivity” and tells you to celebrate it.

That’s not empowerment. That’s denial dressed up as kindness.

Here’s what people need to realize:

Excess body fat is metabolically active
→ Releases inflammatory cytokines 24/7
→ Disrupts leptin, insulin, estrogen, and cortisol signaling
→ Increases risk of 13 types of cancer
→ Doubles the risk of Alzheimer’s (now called “Type 3 Diabetes”)
→ Drives heart disease more than smoking in some populations

If you are fat, consult a doctor.
Stop being lazy. Get up and start exercising and controlling your diet.
Stop giving excuses and feeling depressed about being called fat.

Your future self will thank you.
Nectar for Longevity
Arindam Chaudhuri
Arindam Chaudhuri
Great Indian Dream Foundation (GIDF)




*DISCLAIMER*
This content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Arindam Chaudhuri promotes science and rational thinking and is a Harvard- and Stanford-certified expert in Longevity Science, having undertaken three Executive Education Programs each—from Harvard Medical School in “Lifestyle Coaching”, “Nutrition Coaching” & “Health & Wellness” and from Stanford School of Medicine in “The Science of How to Live Forever”, “Exercise Physiology” & “Nutrition Science”—along with over 40 international certifications (from Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins etc) and is a 3rd Dan Black Belt in Kickboxing. The information shared here is general in nature and based on current scientific understanding. It is not personalized medical advice. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health, diet, exercise, or lifestyle, and verify any information with a professional familiar with your individual medical history and needs. Individual results may vary.

is The only person to win national awards for films in three languages

season to my Three National Awards for (Hindi), (English) & (Bangla)— the only one to win for films in three different languages 😉

Planman Motion Pictures

🚨 Supreme Court Calls Out Teacher Pay Hypocrisy: Time to Walk the Talk! 🚨

- 💰 At IIPM, we didn't just praise teachers—we PAID them the highest in the market, attracting top talent and delivering world-class education. Why? Because great minds deserve great rewards!
- 🎥 To expose the harsh reality of underpaid educators, I made the National Award-winning —starring Rishi Kapoor & Neetu Singh—highlighting a teacher's daily grind for dignity. It sparked a nationwide conversation!
- 📢 As Teachers' Day approaches, let's demand REAL change: Fair wages, respect, and reforms that honor those shaping our future. No more empty chants!
- ❓ What's your take on fixing teacher welfare? Drop your thoughts below and let's amplify this!




Arindam Chaudhuri Arindam Chaudhuri IIPM Dr. Malay Chaudhuri IIPM Think Tank - Publications and Faculty Research The Daily Indian Great Indian Dream Foundation (GIDF) Planman Consulting Planman Motion Pictures

🌟 52nd : A That’s Changing the World! 🌟

For over 50 years, the Indian Institute of Planning and Management (IIPM) has been a fiery torchbearer of innovation, smashing outdated education norms and igniting minds with its bold, transformative vision. Founded in 1973 by the legendary Dr. , isn’t just an institute—it’s a movement, a rebellion against mediocrity, and a blueprint for India’s rise to global dominance. As we celebrate this milestone, let’s salute IIPM’s unapologetic philosophy, game-changing education, and unstoppable spirit!

🔥 A Philosophy That Dares to Dream Big
IIPM’s core belief is radical: education must fuel societal progress, not just corporate greed. Dr. Chaudhuri’s vision of blending economic planning with entrepreneurship empowers students to be architects of change. It’s about lifting communities, boosting purchasing power, and creating a world where opportunity isn’t just for the elite. IIPM’s mantra? Lead with purpose, disrupt with courage, build a better tomorrow and !

🎓 Education That Redefines Excellence
Forget cookie-cutter MBAs—IIPM’s Planning & Entrepreneurship programs are a masterclass in brilliance. With a grueling 72-subject curriculum, students are forged into global leaders. Professors from Harvard, Stanford, Yale, and Wharton bring world-class faculty exposure. With immersion programs with the world’s best B-Schools, IIPM’s global edge is unmatched. We brought the 1:1 student computer ratio, the 1:1 Global Exposure ratio & the 1:1 Dual Specialisation in India. We innovated the —now so copied by all— Five Year Management Program in India, way back in 1980 (which we converted into a Three Year Program— which still remains uncopied). Truly !

🌍 A Global Force with Indian Roots
IIPM’s Think Tank is a powerhouse, from ‘The Great Indian Dream’ to ‘2047, A Roadmap to Beating USA & China’ laying out a fearless plan for India’s future. From UNDP partnerships to World Bank collaborations, IIPM’s social impact is global. Its alumni? They’re trailblazers, leading industries and reshaping economies worldwide while staying true to India’s soul.

⚖️ Unbreakable Resilience
IIPM doesn’t back down. Legal victories against UGC and AICTE in High Courts and the Supreme Court prove its grit. IIPM stands tall, delivering quality education outside the system’s shackles, proving its critics wrong with every milestone.

💡 Fueling India’s Entrepreneurial Fire
IIPM’s Golden Jubilee gift?
IIPM is helping you to face the world with confidence in times of AI. By taking intellect door to door. Making elite intellectual education affordable for all, because “World-class education shouldn’t be for the privileged few.” Like Indigo revolutionized air travel, IIPM now is democratizing the entire gamut of economics, global policy, leadership & entrepreneurship, and empowering dreamers to stand confidently— on the job and to pitch to VCs and build India’s startup ecosystem. This is IIPM’s love letter to “Make in India”!

🚀 The Future Is IIPM
As we toast this anniversary, IIPM’s gaze is fixed on 2047—India’s centennial. With new initiatives, global alliances, and a relentless drive to innovate, IIPM is shaping leaders who’ll make India a superpower. This isn’t just a celebration; it’s a call to action. Join the revolution!

🎉 Happy Anniversary, IIPM!
We’re not just educating—we’re inspiring, disrupting, and building a legacy that’ll echo for generations. Here’s to a future as bold as our past! Dr. Malay Chaudhuri Arindam Chaudhuri Arindam Chaudhuri The Daily Indian Great Indian Dream Foundation (GIDF) IIPM Think Tank - Publications and Faculty Research Planman Consulting

🌟 is stealing hearts and shattering box office records with its powerful portrayal of undying love in the face of early-onset Alzheimer’s. 💔 Though mostly at an older age, this condition hits close to home for so many, yet we often overlook the brain health of our loved ones.

The good news? Science is making incredible strides, and new Alzheimer’s treatments are on the horizon!

🙌 Until then, let’s take charge of our brain health with these proven ways to reduce Alzheimer’s risk. Share these with your loved ones! 💙

🧠 6 Science-Backed Tips to Protect Your Brain:

1️⃣ Lift : Strength training for 45 mins, 3x/week, boosts brain health by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation.
2️⃣ Challenge Your : Learn a new language, dance, play word games, or read daily to build cognitive reserve.
3️⃣ Stay : Walk and talk with friends! Social engagement + physical activity = a powerful brain boost.
4️⃣ Don’t Skip Day: Strong legs = healthy brain. Lower body strength supports better brain cell function.
5️⃣ Smart: Cut sugar and processed foods. Load up on omega-3s (think fish, nuts), veggies, and fruits.
6️⃣ Well: Prioritize 7-8 hours of quality sleep to clear brain toxins and support memory.

💬 What’s one brain-healthy habit you’re committing to today? Tag a friend to join you in protecting your brain! Let’s spread awareness and keep the conversation going. 🧠💪 Arindam Chaudhuri Arindam Chaudhuri IIPM The Daily Indian Dr. Malay Chaudhuri Great Indian Dream Foundation (GIDF) IIPM Think Tank - Publications and Faculty Research Planman Consulting Planman Motion Pictures



Watch out for my upcoming book

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*DISCLAIMER*
This content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Arindam Chaudhuri promotes science and rational thinking and is a Harvard- and Stanford-certified expert in Longevity, Lifestyle Medicine, Nutrition Science, Exercise Physiology, and Public Health, with over 40 international certifications and a 3rd Dan Black Belt in Kickboxing. The information shared here is general in nature and based on current scientific understanding. It is not personalized medical advice. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health, diet, exercise, or lifestyle, and verify any information with a professional familiar with your individual medical history and needs. Individual results may vary.

On 6th June 2021 on this page, I said, India’s COVID deaths are at least 5 million (https://www.facebook.com/share/195ANKogf4/?mibextid=wwXIfr). A year later on 6th May 2022, WHO said it was at least 4.5 million. Modi government maintained 3.5 lac. Finally this year, on 9th May it admitted that it was at least 1.9 million. I’m sure it was was far more. Because on 15th May it admitted Bihar and Gujarat’s death toll was 30 times higher. Why would rest of the states report honestly if Bihar and our model state Gujarat reported only 3%? By the same parameter total deaths could even be 3.5 lacs * 30 = 10.5 Million. Let’s assume other states were very honest, even then it will never be less than 5 million.

This is the kind of cover up the government did.

Shame.

Arindam Chaudhuri Arindam Chaudhuri IIPM The Daily Indian Great Indian Dream Foundation (GIDF) Planman Consulting Dr. Malay Chaudhuri IIPM Think Tank - Publications and Faculty Research Planman Motion Pictures