Swami Atmapriyananda is a senior monk of the Ramakrishna Order and Co-President of Religions for Peace. A Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics, he specialized in particle theory and has published extensively. Joining the Ramakrishna Order in 1978, he served as a professor and later Principal of Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira. As the first Vice-Chancellor of Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda University, he advances Swami Vivekananda’s educational vision while promoting interfaith dialogue and global harmony.
His Holiness Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswati is the President of Parmarth Niketan, one of the largest and most revered ashrams in Rishikesh, India. A prominent spiritual leader, Swami Chidanand Saraswati is known for his teachings on yoga, meditation, and holistic living. He emphasizes the importance of compassion, environmental stewardship, and service to humanity. Under his guidance, Parmarth Niketan has become a hub for spiritual seekers from around the world, offering programs that blend traditional Indian philosophy with contemporary practices. Swami Chidanand Saraswati’s work also includes extensive humanitarian efforts, promoting education, health, and sustainable development initiatives. His vision continues to inspire individuals towards a life of purpose, peace, and harmony
Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati ji is the Secretary General of the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance (GIWA) at Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh, India. Known for her spiritual insight and dedication to humanitarian causes, she leads GIWA’s mission to improve Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) globally, emphasizing the role of faith in promo ng sustainable practices. Under her leadership, GIWA collaborates with leaders of diverse religious backgrounds to address critical issues related to clean water access, sanitation, and public health. A prominent speaker and spiritual teacher, Sadhvi Bhagwati ji also guides initiatives on environmental sustainability and social upliftment, encouraging global awareness and interfaith unity
Kamlesh D. Patel, known as Daaji, is the founder and spiritual leader of Heartfulness, a global meditation movement that integrates ancient wisdom with modern self-development. Originally trained in pharmacy, Daaji devoted himself to spirituality under Chariji Maharaj, becoming the fourth guide in the Sahaj Marg tradition. Through Heartfulness, he offers resources, guided meditations, and courses worldwide, inspiring individuals toward personal transformation and global peace. Daaji is also the author of The Heartfulness Way and Designing Destiny, where he discusses meditation’s transformative potential in daily life.
Haji Syed Salman Chishty is the Gaddi Nashin (spiritual custodian) of the revered Dargah Ajmer Sharif, a significant Sufi shrine dedicated to the 12th- century saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishty. As the Chairman of the Chishty Foundation and the Ajmer Sharif Humanitarian Trust, Haji Syed Salman Chishty ac vely promotes the values of love, tolerance, and unity central to Sufi teachings. His humanitarian initiatives support education, healthcare, and relief work for underprivileged communities, embodying the spirit of service inspired by Khwaja Moinuddin Chishty. Haji Syed Salman Chishty’s leadership highlights the importance of interfaith harmony, compassion, and peace across diverse cultural and religious background.
Bhai Sahib Dr. Bhai Mohinder Singh Ahluwalia, OBE KSG, is the spiritual leader and chair of the Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ), based in Birmingham, UK. Under his leadership, the organization has significantly contributed to Sikh spirituality, community service, and interfaith harmony. GNNSJ, established in the UK and with operations globally, is deeply committed to selfless service (sewa), inspired by Sikh teachings, and emphasizes humility and compassion in its outreach. Bhai Sahib holds prestigious honors, such as the OBE and KSG, recognizing his contributions to interfaith dialogue, community cohesion, and humanitarian efforts worldwide.
His Holiness Mohan ji is the founder of Mohanji Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting self-realization and spiritual growth across the globe. Known for his profound teachings on love, compassion, and mindfulness, Mohan ji inspires individuals to live authentically and connect with their true selves. Through workshops, retreats, and humanitarian initiatives, the foundation emphasizes the importance of inner peace and holistic well-being. Mohan ji’s work encourages followers to cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and their purpose, fostering a global community united by spiritual principles and ethical living. His teachings resonate with those seeking transformation and enlightenment in their lives.
Maharishi Keshavanand Maharaj is a revered spiritual leader and the head of Sarvagya Peetham in the Netherlands. Known for his deep wisdom and commitment to Vedic knowledge, Maharishi Keshavanand Maharaj guides seekers in the pursuit of spiritual growth and self-realiza on. His teachings emphasize the principles of Vedanta, medita on, and the ancient sciences, helping followers integrate spirituality into daily life. Through Sarvagya Peetham, he aims to spread peace, inner harmony, and universal values, offering guidance to individuals from all backgrounds. Maharishi Keshavanand's work fosters a global community rooted in unity, compassion, and spiritual awareness.
Sai Paravastu is a dedicated spiritual leader and community service advocate, serving as the National Secretary and Director for Community Services at the Hindu Council of Australia. He is also a Multicultural Ambassador, promoting inclusivity and understanding across diverse communities. As a Board Director of Spiritual Care Australia, Sai Paravastu contributes to the organization's mission of providing holistic spiritual support. His work emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity and community engagement in fostering spiritual well-being.
Shraddheya Sai Sharanagat, known as 'Shri Bhai Ji,' is a spiritual preacher, motivational speaker, and editor dedicated to awakening spirituality in students. An engineering graduate from the University of Allahabad, he spent nearly two decades in multinational corporations before founding the International Spirituality Olympiad Council. A grihasth sant, he actively collaborates with spiritual leaders and academicians, promoting holistic education and inspiring future generations toward a meaningful life.
Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani is a renowned medical professional, yoga therapist, and author, serving as the Director of the Institute of Salutogenesis and Complementary Medicine. A Gold Medalist in Medicine, he holds advanced degrees in Family Health and Yoga. He continues his family's yogic legacy through leadership at the International Centre for Yoga Education and Research. An IAYT-certified therapist, he promotes yoga therapy, integrative medicine, and holistic well-being globally.
Swami Sarang Sarang Mohiley is a social and political reformer dedicated to promoting democracy, love, and peace in contemporary politics. As the founder of the Shree Swami Sarang Global Peace Foundation, he strives to connect spirituality with philosophy, aiming to inspire individuals toward communal harmony. Residing in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Swami Sarang actively engages in initiatives that emphasize the power of democracy and the significance of each vote. His work underscores the importance of spiritual and philosophical integration in daily life.
Rajiv Mehrotra is an acclaimed author and documentary filmmaker, recognized for his insightful works on spirituality and philosophy. He serves as the Secretary and Trustee of the Foundation for Universal Responsibility of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, facilitating initiatives that promote universal values and ethics. Mehrotra is also known for his long-standing role as the host of the Indian television program "In Conversation," where he engaged with thought leaders from around the world.
Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman served as a Judge of the Supreme Court of India from 2014 to 2021. Prior to his appointment to the bench, he was the Solicitor General of India and had a distinguished career as a senior advocate. Known for his profound knowledge of constitutional law and his contributions to jurisprudence, Justice Nariman has delivered several landmark judgments that have shaped Indian legal discourse.
Dr. Kezevino Aram serves as the President of Shanti Ashram, a Gandhian organization based in Coimbatore, India, dedicated to integrated rural development. With a deep commitment to children's welfare, she has been instrumental in initiatives addressing health, education, and poverty alleviation. Dr. Aram is also known for her active engagement in interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding efforts, both nationally and internationally.
Dr. Meenakshi Gopinath is a distinguished educationist, best known for her tenure as the Principal of Lady Shri Ram College for Women in New Delhi. She is the founder and Honorary Director of WISCOMP (Women in Security, Conflict Management, and Peace), an initiative that promotes the leadership of South Asian women in the areas of peace and security. Dr. Gopinath's work emphasizes education as a transformative tool for societal change.
Dharmacharya Shantum Seth is a renowned Buddhist teacher ordained in the Zen tradition by Thich Nhat Hanh. He has been pivotal in introducing mindfulness practices to various sectors, including education, business, and governance. As the founder of the Ahimsa Trust, he leads pilgrimages to Buddhist sites in India and contributes to social development projects aimed at fostering peace and understanding.
Mrs. Rekha Mody is a social entrepreneur dedicated to the empowerment of women through education and skill development. She has founded and supported various organizations that focus on women's rights and leadership. Her initiatives aim to create platforms for women to engage in socio-political processes and contribute meaningfully to society.
Gurudevshri Rakeshbhai is a revered spiritual leader and the founder of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, an organization dedicated to inner transformation and humanitarian service. His teachings draw upon Jain philosophy and emphasize self-realization, compassion, and non-violence. Under his guidance, the mission has undertaken numerous charitable activities, including health care, education, and rural development projects.
Dr. Kazem Samandari, with over 45 years of global entrepreneurial experience, co-founded L'Opéra, a premier French bakery chain in India. Holding a Ph.D. in Industrial Economy and an MS in Electrical Engineering from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, he has worked in over 60 countries. His leadership has been instrumental in establishing L'Opéra's reputation for authentic French culinary excellence in India.
Dr. Christine Samandari, co-founder and Managing Director of L'Opéra, has a diverse background in sociology, anthropology, and human rights advocacy. Her early research focused on the socio-economic life in Iranian villages and the role of the Baha'i faith in social progress. Following personal loss, she dedicated herself to human rights before transitioning to entrepreneurship. Her commitment ensures L'Opéra's adherence to authentic French culinary traditions and high-quality standards in India
Bishop Justin Bernard Gnanapragasam served as the Bishop of Jaffna, Sri Lanka, from 2015 until his passing in 2021. Born on May 13, 1948, in Karampon, Kayts, he was ordained a priest on April 24, 1974. His extensive pastoral career included roles as assistant priest in Kilinochchi and Valaipadu, parish priest in Mareesankoodal, and rector of St. Henry’s College, Ilavalai. He furthered his education with studies in ecumenical theology at the University of Hull and education science in Southampton. As rector of St. Patrick's College, Jaffna, he emphasized the importance of education in community development. His tenure as bishop was marked by dedication to pastoral care, education, and reconciliation efforts during challenging times in Sri Lanka.
Bishop Gnanapragasam Anthonypillai was appointed as the Bishop of Mannar, Sri Lanka, on December 14, 2024. Born on July 12, 1965, in Adampan, he studied philosophy and theology at Saint Francis Xavier Major Seminary in Jaffna and was ordained a priest on April 7, 1994. His pastoral roles include parish vicar of Murunkan, secretary to the bishop, and parish priest in Cheddikulam, Pallimunai, Vankalai, Saint Sebastian Cathedral, and Pesalai. He also served as rector of the diocesan minor seminary and administrator of the Our Lady of Madhu National Shrine. Bishop Anthonypillai holds a licentiate in religious education from Fordham University and attended a course in youth pastoral care in India.
Madam Brigitte van Baren is the founder of Inner Sense and Chair of Living Peace Projects, specializing in ethical leadership, sustainability, and mindfulness in business. A Zen teacher and environmental law expert, she advocates for clean water access and conscious leadership. Through coaching, books on Franciscan leadership, and global forums, she guides executives in values-driven decision-making for a sustainable future.