An interview with Bawa : )

I never knew working with The Viewspaper could be so exciting. One of the last assignments that i got was to interview a person. I had already thought over it beforehand. I was going to interview Bawa (interviewing Guruji is a dream though)!

SO i mailed Bawa, told him that i wanted to interview him. But Bawa is Bawa, he simply makes things complicated (read interesting) :) He told me that i needed to either come to Bangalore for an Advance Course or come to Pune where he was at that time. But both were simply impossible for me, so i asked him that is there any other way out?! He replied saying that i should call him, and take his interview then...WOW! Bawa wants me to call him and take his interview, what else could i have asked for! I was simply ecstatic thinking about the entire thing. Though I had to give several calls, and whole loads of explanations to find out his number...But it was all worth it!!

Here's the interview for all of you to read :)

Me: So you teach the Art of Living courses, what exactly is it?

Khurshed Batliwala: It is a program that powerfully addresses key issues relevant to the youth of today, and brings about a profound change in their attitude towards life. Confidence, clarity of mind, focus and heightened energy levels become natural to the youth after going through this training. It results in academic excellence, ability to lead and strong interpersonal skills. Regular practice of the techniques and knowledge of this course ensures a strong healthy body and a relaxed stress free mind.

Me: How did your family react to your decision of becoming an Art of Living teacher? Didn’t they object?

Khurshed Batliwala: Very favorably. They were proud that their son is doing something meaningful in his life.

Me: You have interacted with millions of youth across the globe. What is your vision for today’s youth? Isn’t it sad that most of the youth these days are devouring drugs, alcohol, and so on?

Khurshed Batliwala: No, most of the youth have not done that. My vision for today’s youth is that they live on to the vision that they have for themselves.

Me: Why is violence increasing in the world?

Khurshed Batliwala: This is because non-violent people are not doing enough about it.

Me: What are your other interests apart from the Art of Living?

Khurshed Batliwala: Life, Western classical music, playing the piano, cooking, reading, walking, nature and environment!

Me: Mr. Batliwala I have also heard that you are a great cook. Can you give us one of your favourite recipes?

Khurshed Batliwala: You need to work a bit to satisfy your appetite! (Laughs) Check out my blog, http://bawandinesh.name/. All the recipes there are my favourites.

Me: Is there any message that you would like to give to our readers?

Khurshed Batliwala: Yes. Do yourself a favour and do the YES!+.