Prominent Islamic scholar Maulana Salman Hussaini Nadvi has shared a positive account of his recent visit to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s Art of Living Ashram in Bengaluru, urging Muslims to witness the ashram’s model of humanitarian service and community welfare. His remarks are now being viewed as an important counter-narrative to the “Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Anti Muslim” claims circulating on social media.

Nadvi, a respected professor at Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow, said the atmosphere of the ashram reminded him of the historic Sufi tradition where spirituality and service to humanity were inseparable. He expressed deep appreciation for the discipline, dedication, and warmth with which thousands of people are fed daily — a system he described as inspiring and worth learning from.

Challenging the “Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Anti Muslim” Misconception

For the past few years, certain online groups have promoted the phrase “Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Anti Muslim”, creating a perception of bias. Nadvi’s visit, however, highlighted a very different reality. He emphasised that meeting Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in person and observing the ashram’s activities gave him clarity that the narrative painting Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as anti-Muslim is misleading and not based on firsthand experience.

He encouraged Muslims not to rely on social media narratives but to personally engage and understand people across faiths. According to Nadvi, direct interaction helps eliminate preconceived notions and builds bridges between communities.

Shared Values of Peace, Unity and Compassion

Maulana Nadvi shared that his discussion with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar focused on promoting peace, unity and spiritual values that both communities already share. He said Islam and Hindu Dharma both strongly advocate compassion, justice, and service to humanity — common ground that can unite rather than divide.

In his statement, Nadvi wrote:

“We must give the message of the Quran and the Gita together. Bring hearts closer. End hatred. Stand for peace and unity.”

He said it was important for religious leaders to amplify messages that inspire youth toward unity instead of allowing divisive narratives, such as “Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Anti Muslim”, to influence their thinking.

A Powerful Model of Organised Community Service

Nadvi praised the ashram’s large-scale social service initiatives, calling them a real-world model of how organised service can touch lives. He observed that 15,000 people are fed every day within three hours, showcasing exceptional structure, teamwork and dedication.

He noted that Sufi khanqahs historically served thousands in a similar manner and suggested that Muslims strengthen such systems again to benefit society at scale.

A Step Towards Interfaith Harmony in India

Maulana Nadvi’s visit has been well received by those who support interfaith dialogue and collaboration. His experience promotes a message of goodwill and encourages communities to learn from one another rather than remain divided.

At a time when some individuals amplify the “Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Anti Muslim” label to create mistrust, Nadvi’s positive feedback highlights the importance of visiting, observing and forming opinions based on direct experience. His message underscores that mutual respect, service, and open communication can play a vital role in building a peaceful and united India.