October 3rd 2023.
The World Culture Festival 2023, held over three days at the iconic National Mall in Washington DC, concluded on a high note. Over one million people from 180 countries gathered with a single message of belongingness and brotherhood. The event was a celebration of human diversity through dance, music, meditation and culture.
The festivities brought about many memorable moments. A poignant minute of prayer for the people of Ukraine, led by Gurudev, was particularly touching. A thousand people flow together in a yoga practice at the Lincoln Memorial, led by Gurudev. The crowd was mesmerized by Skip Marley's iconic 'One Love' performance, and a lively Go-go band had everyone grooving to the beats. Faith leaders from diverse backgrounds gathered to pray for global peace, and their heartfelt prayers touched a chord with everyone present.
The event brought together 17,000 artists, more than 60 performances representing diverse cultures, and global leaders from the world of business, politics and religion. Global humanitarian and spiritual master, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, addressed the crowd and said, “There is goodness inherent in us, and that needs to come up, and that comes when we realize we are one world family.” India’s cultural canvas was exhibited with ‘Panchabhootam’ represented through 5 Indian classical dance forms, and a symphony of 250 instrumentalists. Global performances included mesmerizing dances from Africa, Japan, the Middle East, the Caribbean Islands, Argentina, Nepal, the Slavic countries, and Mongolia.
Notable attendees included former President of India Sri Ramnath Kovind, Dr. S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India, H.E. Ban Ki-moon, the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations, and many statesmen. Dr. S. Jaishankar spoke of the gathering, saying, "This gathering represents a powerful affirmation that humanity is above all divisions. We must work together to build a world where peace and harmony prevail.” H.E. Ban Ki-moon echoed his sentiments, "Unity is not a choice but a necessity. Events like the World Culture Festival 2023 remind us that we are part of a shared destiny."
Interfaith leaders also shared a common message of unity, compassion, and collective responsibility for global peace efforts. Bhai Sahib Satpal Singh Khalsa, Ambassador of Sikh Dharma- USA & Chief Religious and Spiritual Authority of Sikh Religion- Western Hemisphere, said, "We must recognize the common thread that binds us all, transcending boundaries and beliefs. Unity and compassion are the path to lasting peace.”
The World Culture Festival 2023 was an amazing gathering of humanity that uplifted the human spirit and celebrated our shared humanity. Through dance, music and prayer, we were reminded that we are all part of a global family and must work together to build a world of peace and harmony.
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